Storing books in a storage unit: Do’s and Don’ts
Learn how to keep books in good condition when storing them in a storage unit with these book storage ideas
Book storage seems simple at first. Many people just stack them in a pile or cram them tightly into boxes. However, if you want to keep your books in good condition, there are a few things you should consider when storing them in a storage unit.
Store your books in book storage boxes or book storage bins
If you’re looking for a way to store your books in a storage unit, consider using book storage boxes or book storage bins. These containers are specifically designed to store books, and they will help to keep them in good condition.
When choosing a book storage box or bin, make sure that it is the right size for your books. The container should be large enough to hold all of your books, but not so large that it takes up too much space in your storage unit.
Also, make sure that the container has a lid. This will help to protect your books from dust and moisture. Adding silica gel packs to your boxes will also help to keep your books in good condition. These packets absorb moisture and come with most book storage boxes and bins. It’s a good idea to add some packets before storing your books, even if you don’t think they need it.
In terms of book storage boxes and bins, there are two main things to consider: material and size.
When it comes to selecting a material, the options typically are plastic or cardboard? Plastic is a little better, as it doesn’t absorb any moisture, doesn’t have much smell, and can’t be eaten through easily by rodents. However, it’s also a little more expensive and many plastic bins don’t fit books perfectly, whereas there are cardboard book boxes made specifically for the task.
The second thing to consider is the size of the book box or book bin. It should be large enough to hold quite a few books, but not too large so that it takes up too much space in your storage unit or that you aren’t able to carry it when it’s full of books.
Store books in stacks with the cover either up or down
When storing books in a storage unit, it is important to stack them in a way that will keep them in good condition. You can either stack them with the cover up or down. If you stack them on their vertical sides, it can place added pressure on the binding which causes it to break down. Sideways books also are more susceptible to bending if something pushes on it.
When stacking books, you may want to place something soft, like packing material or paper towel, between the books in such a way that they don’t touch each other. This will help to prevent the covers from becoming damaged.
Put smaller or lighter books on top, heavier ones on the bottom
When stacking books in a storage unit, it is important to place the heavier books on the bottom and the lighter books on top. This will help to prevent the books from being damaged, whether it’s a cover wearing, binding breaking down, or the whole book becoming warped or bent.
Don’t put heavy items or items that could leak on top of the boxes of books
Going along with the above point, you also should avoid placing heavy items or things that could leak on top of the boxes of books once they are packed up. This is for the same reason you don’t want to put heavy books on smaller, lighter books: it could damage the covers, wear down the binding, or bend or warp the book.
Store in a dry environment
It is important to store books in a dry place, as moisture can damage them. This is why it is important to use book storage boxes or bins that have a lid, as well as silica gel packs, to keep them in good condition.
How to store books in a storage unit
When storing books in a storage unit, it is important to take into account a few key things in order to keep them in good condition. First and foremost, you want to use boxes or bins specifically designed for storing books- these will have a lid to protect from dust and moisture, as well as silica gel packs to absorb any excess moisture. Stack the books on their covers or backs, not any sides. Put the heavy books on the bottom and lighter ones on top. It’s also important not to place heavy items on top of the boxes of books, as this can damage the covers or bindings. Finally, store the boxes in a dry environment to prevent any water damage. By following these simple tips, your beloved books should stay in good condition while in storage!
Store your books with Ace Self Storage
If you have extra items you are looking to store, consider using Ace Self Storage in San Diego, California. Check out our new storage facility in Miramar. We offer great rates, including move-in specials, we have month-to-month contracts with online bill pay, and we provide awesome customer service. Contact Ace Self Storage to enquire about availability today!