Putting furniture like a couch into a storage unit is a common need for many people. If you’re moving or renovating your home, you may need short or long term storage for larger items that won’t fit in your current living situation. Storing a couch specifically comes with some considerations to factor in. With the right storage unit size and some preparation, safely storing your couch is quite feasible.
Quick Answers
Here are some quick answers to common questions about putting a couch in a storage unit:
- Yes, you can put a couch in a storage unit if you get a large enough unit.
- Measure your couch and door openings carefully to ensure it will fit into the unit.
- Prepare the couch by cleaning it and covering it with plastic or furniture pads.
- Rent a climate controlled unit to prevent mold/mildew and damage.
- Elevate the couch off the floor with wood blocks to prevent water damage.
- Make sure you can securely close and lock the storage unit door.
- Check if your building has elevator access to help move the couch in and out.
Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size
The most important factor in storing a couch is getting a storage unit that’s large enough. Take measurements of your couch, noting the length, width, and height. Measure doorways and halls in your home to determine the best route to get the couch out. Most standard couches are 70-90 inches long and 30-40 inches wide. Sectionals and other large couches can be even bigger.
Consider the size chart of common storage unit types:
| Storage Unit Size | Dimensions (length x width) |
|---|---|
| 5×5 | 5 feet x 5 feet (~25 square feet) |
| 5×10 | 5 feet x 10 feet (~50 square feet) |
| 10×10 | 10 feet x 10 feet (~100 square feet) |
| 10×15 | 10 feet x 15 feet (~150 square feet) |
| 10×20 | 10 feet x 20 feet (~200 square feet) |
For a standard 6-7 foot couch, a 5×10 or 10×10 unit is usually sufficient. Very large sectionals and couches over 8 feet long will need at least a 10×15. The height of the unit also needs to accommodate the couch, with higher ceilings better for larger furniture. Aim for a unit at least 8 feet high if possible.
Keep in mind you’ll also need some extra space to walk around the couch, close the door, and store other items if needed. Give yourself an extra 1-2 feet minimum padded room so you’re not crammed against the couch inside the unit.
Preparing and Protecting the Couch
Before transporting your couch to storage, some preparation is recommended:
- Clean thoroughly – Vacuum and wipe down the couch to prevent bringing dirt, food, and debris into storage that could attract pests.
- Inspect for damage – Look for any worn spots, tears, or broken areas that may get worse in storage. Consider repairing major issues first.
- Cover with plastic or pads – Wrap furniture pads, plastic sheets, or a furniture cover around the couch to protect the surface from dust, scratches, and moisture.
- Photograph condition – Take photos showing the condition of the couch before storing in case of damage disputes later.
The storage facility environment will also impact the couch. Consider these factors:
- Climate controlled – This maintains a constant cool, dry temperature to prevent mold growth and fabric deterioration.
- Pest control – Facilities should follow protocols to keep out rodents, insects, and arachnids.
- Cleanliness – Well maintained hygiene standards keep out dust and dirt.
Ask the storage facility about their policies regarding pest control, maintenance, and measures against mold, mildew, and humidity. A clean, climate-controlled unit will best protect your couch while in storage.
Transporting and Placing the Couch
Getting a large couch into a storage unit takes some physical maneuvering. Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Check if your building has a freight or larger elevator to transport the couch. Measure the elevator interior to ensure the couch will fit.
- For stair access, have at least 2-3 people to safely carry the couch down and flip it as needed.
- Measure the storage facility doors and hallways. Make sure the path to your unit can accommodate the couch.
- Verify in advance if the facility has carts, dollies, or hand trucks available to assist moving the couch.
- Back a truck or van up close to the storage unit door to minimize how far you need to carry the couch.
Within the storage unit, place the couch in a position that makes the best use of the available space. Leaving walkways allows easier access for adding and removing items. Elevate the couch off the floor using wooden blocks or pallets to avoid any water damage from floods or leaks.
Once positioned, make sure you can fully close and lock the storage unit door. The couch should not block or protrude from the doorway. Securely close the door every time to maintain a sealed environment.
Storing Other Items with the Couch
Using the storage unit for the couch alone is ideal, but you may also need room for other possessions. Just keep these tips in mind:
- Only store odour-free and non-perishable items to avoid damaging the couch.
- Avoid flammable chemicals, gasoline, paints, etc. that could ignite and cause fire damage.
- Do not overcrowd the unit. Tightly packed items can damage the couch when removed.
- Elevate boxes and containers off the ground like the couch to prevent water damage.
- Leave some walkway space around the couch for accessing items.
Proper food storage rules apply to any edible items placed in the unit with the couch:
- Store in airtight plastic bins or packaging.
- Use coolers with ice packs for short term cold food storage under 5 days.
- Inspect for signs of mold, bacteria, or pests in food regularly.
- Avoid storage of perishable foods for over 1-2 weeks maximum.
Couch Storage Duration Tips
How long you store the couch can impact how you prepare for storage:
- Short-term under 3 months – Thorough cleaning and furniture pads should suffice.
- Long-term over 6-12 months – Consider wrapping the couch entirely in plastic sheeting or a storage cover.
- Indefinite term – Be extra thorough in cleaning, covering, elevating off the ground, and using a climate controlled unit.
Monitor the couch every 1-2 months if possible. Look for signs of mold/mildew and pests. A self-storage lease usually runs month-to-month so you can retrieve the couch whenever needed.
Costs of Couch Storage
Storage unit costs vary considerably based on location, size, features, and duration. Some average monthly costs for storing a couch include:
| Unit Size | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 5×5 | $40 – $100 |
| 5×10 | $60 – $150 |
| 10×10 | $90 – $250 |
| 10×15 | $130 – $300 |
| 10×20 | $175 – $400 |
Climate controlled units typically cost 20-50% more than non-climate controlled. Urban areas like New York and San Francisco can be over twice the national averages. Examine all the facility fees too like insurance, administrative fees, oversize item charges, etc.
For long-term couch storage of 6 months or more, consider renting a smaller unit minimally sized for just the couch to save on costs. A remote, lower-demand area may offer additional savings on an unused unit they want to fill.
Alternatives to Storing the Couch
While using a storage unit is a popular option, it may not always be feasible or cost-effective. Here are some other choices if you need to remove the couch from your home:
- Sell it or give it away – Get cash return or gift it via classified ads or donation pickup.
- Rent a friend’s garage/basement – Offer to pay them monthly to store the couch on their property.
- Use a delivery storage service – Some moving companies offer short-term storage containers.
- Rent a self-storage garage – More costly but gives private secured space.
- Wait it out – If renovating or moving, arrange completion dates so the couch can be directly placed in the new home.
Weigh the total costs against renting a storage unit based on your specific circumstances. Removing the couch from your home completely may make the most sense logistically and financially.
Key Takeaways
- Renting a storage unit is a convenient way to store a couch temporarily during a move or renovation.
- Measure furniture and doors carefully to get a unit large enough to fit the couch.
- Prepare the couch by cleaning, covering, and elevating off the floor.
- Climate control and pest prevention help protect the couch.
- Factor in costs, duration, and alternatives like selling when deciding.
Conclusion
Storing a couch in a rental unit is very feasible with the right precautions. By selecting an adequately sized unit, properly preparing the couch, and maintaining suitable storage conditions, your couch can stay safely preserved. Just be sure to compare costs and logistics to other options as well. With some forethought and effort, you can successfully use a rental unit for storing your couch through a move or renovation.
