Steps To Storing Your Couch Safely

Putting your nice upholstered couch into storage may make you a little bit nervous, especially if you aren't sure of the right way to go about the task. The following step-by-step guide will show you how to properly store your couch, whether it's just for a few weeks or for several years.

Step #1: Grab your vacuum

Before you can store you must clean; otherwise crumbs and dirt may attract pests or stains, both of which can ruin the upholstery. Unless the couch is badly soiled, the upholstery attachment on your vacuum should get the job done. Vacuum every inch of the couch, including under and between cushions, the arms, sides, and back. Then, spot treat any stains with an upholstery cleaner, and let the spots dry completely before storing. If your couch is badly stained, you may want to consider professional upholstery cleaning.

Step #2: Bag the cushions

Don't leave loose cushions on the couch—they could end up lost, permanently squashed, or otherwise damaged. Instead, seal each clean cushion in a large garbage bag and pack them into a box. The bag protects against moisture and pests. As an alternative, you can store the cushions in a plastic storage bin with a tight-fitting lid. Just don't squish them down. Store them loosely so they aren't permanently flattened.

Step #3: Watch the legs

Couch legs vary. Some models have permanently affixed legs, some have removable legs, and others don't really have legs at all. If you can remove the legs, do so so they aren't broken off when you move the couch; otherwise, be careful with the affixed variety. You can store removable legs in with the cushions. No matter what type of couch you have, protect the base so dirt and moisture doesn't damage the lower upholstery on the outer cover. Set it on top of some pallets or cover the storage unit floor with a tarp.

Step #4: Grab the right cover

Covering the couch ensures that dust and dirt doesn't settle on it in storage, since this can lead to stains. Skip plastic covers, though. Since you can't seal them to make them airtight, moisture can get under the plastic and become trapped. This leads to major mildew troubles. Instead, use a plain, white fabric cover, such as an old white bed sheet or painter's drop cloth. Colorful sheets can transfer dye to the couch upholstery, so they are best avoided.

For more about this topic, contact a storage facility in your area.

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