Clean everything first

Wipe down and dry every piece before it goes in. Upholstered sofas, chairs and mattresses should be clean and fully dry, because any moisture left in them can lead to mould.

Take it apart where you can

Bed frames and table legs can usually be taken apart to save space. Keep screws and fittings in a labelled bag, taped to the piece, so you can put it back together. At B Moved our team dismantles furniture where needed, so tell us at the survey which pieces you want taken apart.

Tip: Keep screws and fittings in a labelled bag, taped to the piece they belong to.

Wrap it properly

Use layers. Moving blankets or similar fabric go on first, and bubble wrap or plastic over the top can hold them in place. Cardboard on corners and under legs helps protect against knocks. Take care with plastic on wood, which is a reason to keep air moving, as below.

Let it breathe and keep it dry

• Keep wooden furniture away from the door of the unit, where it is most exposed to damp.

• Put a sheet across the floor and lift items off the ground where you can.

• Keep electronics and anything moisture sensitive up off the floor.

• A little wax on wooden pieces can stop them drying and cracking in a dry space.

Mattresses

Store mattresses on their side in a protective cover, so they are not squashed under heavier items.

Pack the space well

Put the big, flat pieces at the back, with heavier items at the bottom, and leave a gap or a walkway so you can reach things. Keep a list of what is where.

Check what is allowed

Some things cannot be stored at all, including dangerous goods and perishables, and our Storage Tips guide covers this. Read when to use storage during a move for the bigger picture.