Kitchen appliance storage made easy
From whipping up smoothies to ensuring your clothes are fresh and clean, home appliances help us get stuff done on the daily. But what happens when you develop a minor addiction to acquiring these trusted companions and they start taking over the house? Or they’re only for special purposes and aren’t needed all the time? Maybe you’ve downsized, upgraded, or simply run out of room. Take it from the experts at Mini Mall Storage — storing your appliances properly is essential to prolonging their useful lifespan and keeping them in top condition. Keep reading for your guide to storing all your favourite kitchen helpers, big or small.
Small Appliance Storage
Small appliances are more straightforward to stash away than their larger counterparts, but they still need some special attention to help ensure they’ll be in good shape when you go to use them again. Follow these smart small appliance storage tips to keep your gadgets in excellent condition and ensure a long lifespan.
Clean and Dry Thoroughly
Before storing any small appliance, ensure it’s clean and completely dry. Leftover crumbs in your toaster or moisture in your blender can lead to mold, rust, or unpleasant odours that can be attractive to pests:
- Vacuums: Empty the bag or canister and clean the filters. Wipe down all components with a clean, damp cloth to remove buildup or dust. Wrap the cord neatly and securely and store all extra attachments in a bag or container to keep them together and safe from damage.
- Microwaves: Remove the glass turntable, wipe down all interior surfaces with warm soapy water, and dry thoroughly. Wrap the glass turntable in packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent damage during transit.
- Blenders and Mixers: Disassemble all removable parts, clean and dry thoroughly, and store the base separately to avoid scratches and damage to the glass/plastic vessel. If you have a glass blender, wrap it in packing paper or bubble wrap for extra protection.
- Toasters: Shake out crumbs, wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth, and store cords safely tucked away.
For best results, store your small kitchen appliances in their original boxes. If that’s not an option, wrap them in bubble wrap or stretch wrap to protect against dust, scratches, and impact damage.
Large Kitchen Appliance Storage
The same principles apply when it comes to large kitchen appliance storage as with your smaller helpers; you still want to make sure they are clean and dry before tucking them away. A little bit of preparation can save you from costly repairs or replacements down the road.
- Refrigerators and Freezers: Defrost thoroughly and clean inside and out to clear away any spills or debris. Making sure your fridge or freezer is clean before storing is the best way to prevent mold and mildew from building up over time. Remove shelves and drawers for separate storage or use tape to secure them in place so they don’t shift during transit.
- Washers and Dryers: Run a cleaning cycle to remove detergent buildup, then let the drum dry thoroughly. Disconnect and drain hoses and store them inside the drum to avoid misplacing them. Protect the exterior with a moving blanket or cover to prevent dings and scratches.
- Dishwashers: Clean the interior with warm soapy water, taking extra care to clean the filter trap thoroughly. Run a dry cycle to make sure all interior components are dry. Disconnect hoses and secure them inside the appliance. Protect the outside of the dishwasher with a moving blanket secured with tape of stretch wrap.
- Ovens: You might have to use a bit more elbow grease when cleaning the oven, but it’s well worth it. Grease and food debris can cause mold and attract pests when storing for the long haul. Detach all the removable parts, like racks and burners and clean and store them separately. If you’re storing a gas stove, ensure the gas lines are properly capped.
- Air Conditioners: Drain any standing water and clean the filters, vents, and coils. Cover vents and coils to protect against dust and debris. Store upright to prevent internal damage.
Choosing the Right Storage Conditions
While your garage or shed might seem like a convenient spot to store your appliances, they’re not always the best choice. Here’s why:
- Temperature and Humidity Control: Extreme temperature variations and high humidity levels can wreak havoc on appliances. Electronic components can corrode or warp in damp or freezing conditions, causing permanent damage. Opt for a climate-controlled storage unit to keep your appliances in a stable environment all year long.
- Protection from Pests: Garages and sheds can attract pests like rodents and insects. Using a secure, pest-free storage facility ensures your appliances will be safe from nibbled cords, droppings, and other pest-related issues.
- Maximizing Longevity: Proper storage conditions reduce wear and tear, helping you save money on repairs or replacements. A little extra care now can go a long way toward preserving the value and condition of your appliances for the future.
Remember to wrap and label each appliance to protect against dust and help you quickly identify each item again in the future. Keep things organized by placing the larger, heavier appliances at the back of your storage unit, and avoid stacking other items on top of appliances.
How to Choose a Storage Facility
A storage facility offers more than just extra space, it provides peace of mind. Climate-controlled units protect your appliances from temperature extremes while secure access and pest control measures keep them safe for the long term. Plus, having a dedicated storage unit means you can reclaim your home’s square footage without having to let go of any valuable belongings you’d rather hang on to. It’s the best of both worlds!
At Mini Mall Storage, we specialize in keeping your belongings safe and sound. With various sizes to choose from, you’re sure to find a storage unit that meets your needs. Whether you’re storing a blender or a refrigerator, we’ve got you covered. Ready to get started? Contact Mini Mall Storage today and let us help you store smarter!