Storing Your Treasures in Houston, MS

Published on 8/28/2025
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The Do's and Don'ts of Long-Term Furniture Storage in Houston, MS


Life in Houston, Mississippi, is all about community, heritage, and enjoying the simple pleasures. From a leisurely stroll down the Bray Creek Walking Trail to the excitement of the annual Houston Homecoming, there’s always something to do. But what happens when life requires a change? Maybe you're downsizing, renovating your home in the Historic District, or simply making space for your growing collection of genealogical records from the Chickasaw Genealogical Society. Whatever the reason, you might find yourself needing to store your beloved furniture long-term.

Storing furniture isn't as simple as just moving it into a storage unit and locking the door, especially not here in Chickasaw County. Our humid subtropical climate, with its hot, sticky summers and damp winters, can be tough on wooden furniture, upholstery, and antiques. Without proper care, you might return to find your cherished possessions warped, moldy, or damaged. But don't worry! With a little know-how, you can ensure your furniture stays in pristine condition. Here are the essential do's and don'ts of long-term furniture storage in Houston.


The Do's: Your Checklist for Success

  1. DO Clean and Treat Everything: Before a single item goes into storage, make sure it is spotless. Dust, crumbs, and stains can attract pests and lead to mold growth. Wipe down all surfaces, treat wood with a quality furniture polish, and have any upholstered items professionally cleaned. Let everything dry completely before moving. 
  2.  DO Disassemble When Possible: Large items like bed frames and tables should be taken apart to save space and prevent damage. Keep all screws, bolts, and other small parts together in a labeled bag and tape it securely to the largest piece of the corresponding furniture item. 
  3.  DO Use the Right Coverings: It's tempting to wrap everything in plastic, but that’s a big mistake in our humid climate. Plastic traps moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew. Instead, use breathable materials like old sheets, blankets, or specialized furniture covers. This allows air to circulate while protecting your items from dust. 
  4.  DO Choose Climate-Controlled Storage: This is arguably the most crucial "do" on our list. A standard storage unit won't protect your furniture from the extreme temperature and humidity swings we experience in Houston. Climate-controlled storage maintains a consistent temperature and humidity level, preventing wood from warping, cracking, or splitting, and protecting upholstery from mildew. A local facility like Bollinger Mini Storage on North Jefferson Street offers these vital climate-controlled options. 
  5.  DO Create a Smart Layout: When you move your furniture in, think strategically. Place larger, heavier items at the back and create a central aisle so you can access everything without having to unpack the entire unit. Use pallets or cinder blocks to keep furniture off the concrete floor, which can transfer moisture. 


The Don'ts: Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. DON'T Store Food or Perishables: This seems obvious, but even a small crumb can attract pests that can wreak havoc on your furniture. Ensure there are no food items in any of the pieces you are storing. 
  2.  DON'T Cram Everything In: Overloading a storage unit is a recipe for disaster. Air needs to circulate to prevent musty odors and moisture buildup. Be sure to leave a few inches of space between your items and the walls of the unit. 
  3.  DON'T Place Heavy Items on Top of Softer Pieces: Avoid placing heavy boxes or items on top of sofas or mattresses, as this can cause permanent indentations and damage to the springs and cushions. 
  4.  DON'T Forget About Your Belongings: Just because your furniture is in storage doesn't mean you should forget about it. It’s a good idea to check on your unit every few months to ensure everything is still in good condition.

By following these simple do's and don'ts, you can rest easy knowing that your furniture will be safe and sound, ready for you whenever you need it. So go ahead, enjoy that community event with the Flywheel Association or spend an afternoon at Joe Brigance Park. Your treasured belongings will be waiting for you, in the same condition as the day you stored them.