For instance, you might want to keep certain documents beyond the legally required period for certain reasons. And if you’re globetrotting, you’d probably not want to cut short your adventure just because your self-storage unit plan is about to run out.
Here’s a quick guide on how long to keep your belongings.
Paperwork and Office Archives
Depending on various laws, you’re required to retain certain types of documents for a certain period. In Australia, the average is about 5 years for most documents.
For documents that you must keep, it's advisable that you label the box or container with the date that the contents are required to be kept. The government department relevant to the documents you're required to store should be able to advise you on how long various documents should be kept.
No matter how long you need to store your documents, it’s best to always check up on them periodically to ensure they’ll be in good shape when you need them. Seal them off in air-tight containers and store them in sturdy boxes to protect them from the elements.
Furniture and Décor
So long as they’re kept in optimal conditions, you can store your furniture for years on end without worrying about their integrity, whether they’re made of wood, leather, plastic, etc. Before storing them, make sure to clean them thoroughly and wrap them loosely with wrapping materials.Electronics and appliances
How long to store electronics depends on the product, so you need to double-check with the manufacturer or product specs. On average, electronics can stay up to 5 – 10 years in storage without any significant degradation.If you’ll be storing your electronics without use for a long time, make sure to take the following precautions:
- Take out the batteries and any liquid parts
- Lift the electronics off the ground
- Store them under cool, dry conditions
- Keep them in sturdy boxes to protect them from the elements and pests
Clothing
Some clothes might have some sentimental value that you can’t part with. You can store your favourite clothes for years on end, but it’s always advisable to declutter and take out some clothes when you can.Here are tips to keep your clothes in good shape for as long as needed:
- Wash them well before storing
- Keep clothes in sturdy boxes, check out port-a-robe cartons!
- Plastic boxes are less-advisable, but if you have to use them, keep the lid slightly open to prevent moisture from getting trapped inside.
- Consider cedar blocks and hangers or mothballs to keep your clothes in condition and smelling clean and fresh.
Hopefully, we’ve given you a fair idea of how long you can store certain types of items and expect to find them in good shape when retrieving them.
For any of the above items or any other items which you're looking at storing, speak with your local Storage King consultant who can advise you on the best way to wrap, pack and store your items.