Getting ready to pack up your household appliances and put them into storage? Not quite sure where to start? From the washer and dryer to the refrigerator and dishwasher, you’ll want to properly prepare your appliances to keep them in working order – because you’ll eventually need to use them again (probably).
Keep your valuable appliances and whitegoods in top condition with this handy guide filled with clever tips for cleaning and storing your items. You’ll be surprised by how much you can do with a single lemon.
Get ‘em Clean and Dry
Make those appliances sparkle before you load them onto the truck or trailer. Be sure to clean, dry and defrost all your items before placing them in a storage unit.
Washing Machine
While “washing your washing machine” may sound funny, the dirt and grime that’s built up inside is nothing to laugh at. Bust those filthy dust bunnies with these simple steps for sparkling up your washing machine:
- Run a hot-temperature full-cycle wash, adding 1/2 cup bicarb soda and 2 cups white vinegar once the machine is full.
- Dampen a clean cloth with warm water and wipe away any dust or stains on the outside of your machine.
- Once the cycle has finished, keep the door open to dry inside.
And voilà! A clean and dry washing machine that’s ready for storage.
Refrigerator and Microwave
If your kitchen appliances have gone sour, sort them out with a lemon. No, really – cleaning your refrigerator, microwave and other appliances is easy with a DIY lemon cleaner.
Simply cut a lemon in half and squeeze its juicy goodness into a microwave-safe bowl of water. Zap the bowl in the microwave for 3 minutes. Your magic lemon juice will boil and steam, loosening any crusty evidence of late-night nachos lurking inside the microwave. Remove the bowl and wipe with a damp cloth.
Once it has cooled down, dip your cloth into your lemon water concoction and wipe your refrigerator clean. Keep the doors of your microwave and fridge open to dry and, hey presto, your kitchen appliances are ready for your storage unit.
Side Note: If you’ve got an espresso machine, see here for what could be living in there and how to clean it.
Deodorise (Or Your Nose Will Regret It)
Put those pits away – we’re talking about your whitegoods. Can you imagine returning to your storage unit to reclaim your refrigerator only to be met with a stale smell upon opening the door? Avoid unpleasant odours by keeping washing machine, dishwasher and refrigerator doors ajar while in storage and placing a deodoriser inside.
A great natural way to absorb any nasty smells is to place a plate of baking soda or coffee grounds in your fridge while it’s in storage.
Store Them Safely
Now that your appliances are ready for storage, it’s time to consider how to best store them. Here are some handy hints:
- Ensure all electrical cords and components are unplugged and securely placed inside their appliance.
- Any hoses or cords that cannot be disconnected should be taped down to avoid damage.
- When possible, place smaller appliances such as microwaves or blenders in their original packaging.
- Position whitegoods standing up as they would be at home. Storing them on their side can cause damage.
- Cover high-value appliances with a sheet to protect the finish.
Sneaky storage tip: If you’re using your storage unit for other small household items, make the most of your bulky appliances by using them for storage. Fridge shelves make a very handy temporary bookcase or DVD cabinet.
You can relax knowing your appliances are in good hands in one of our clean and dry self-storage units. Get in touch today to discuss a solution for your storage needs.
Storing more than whitegoods? We’ve got your back. Check out our tips for storing furniture in this helpful post.
