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Five Personal Items are suitable for long-term storage of a year or more? Long-Term Storage Tips from Tellus Self Storage in Mississippi

MISSISSIPPI FACILITIES

Tellus Marketing Team

August 12th, 2025

Five Personal Items are suitable for long-term storage of a year or more?
Long-Term Storage Tips from Tellus Self Storage

Whether you're downsizing, relocating, or simply making room at home, long-term storage can be a practical solution. But when it comes to storing items for a year or longer, not everything holds up equally. Some belongings are better suited for long-term storage—if packed properly.

Here are five personal items that tend to store well over time, plus tips to help you prepare them for the months ahead.

👚 1. Seasonal Clothing

Winter coats, holiday sweaters, swimsuits—these seasonal items are great candidates for long-term storage.

Tips:

Wash and dry clothing before packing

Use lidded plastic bins or vacuum-sealed bags

Add cedar blocks or moisture absorbers for added freshness

📚 2. Books and Paper Documents

Books, photo albums, and personal records hold up well, especially in stable environments.

Tips:

Store in labeled, sturdy bins with lids

Keep boxes elevated off the ground

Opt for a climate-controlled unit to minimize humidity exposure

🍽️ 3. Dishes and Kitchenware

Non-perishable items like pots, pans, dishes, and utensils are excellent for extended storage.

Tips:

Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper

Avoid newspaper—it can stain

Pack plates vertically to help prevent breakage

🪑 4. Non-Upholstered Furniture

Wood and metal furniture—like bookshelves, nightstands, and dressers—handle long-term storage well.

Tips:

Disassemble large items if possible

Wrap furniture in moving blankets or covers

Avoid plastic wrap directly on wood (it can trap moisture)

🖼️ 5. Decor and Home Accessories

Framed artwork, mirrors, lamps, and seasonal decorations tend to store well if properly packed.

Tips:

Use original boxes when available

Wrap delicate items carefully

Label boxes clearly for seasonal rotation

🚫 Bonus: What Not to Store Long-Term

While many items store just fine, some are best kept at home or accessed more regularly. Avoid storing:

Electronics (unless using climate-controlled units)

Perishable items or anything consumable

Leather goods in humid climates

Items with high personal or sentimental value

Declutter without letting go.
Long-term storage is a smart way to hold onto what matters—without it taking up your everyday space. Do you need help choosing a storage unit that fits your needs? Reach out to your nearest Tellus Self Storage location and ask about features, tips, or current availability.