How to Protect Your Possessions in Storage (The Simple, Sustainable Way)

Storing your stuff doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re packing up furniture during a house move, hiding away seasonal bits, or just clearing space at home, a little prep goes a long way.

At Ease the Squeeze, we’re all about making storage simple — and that starts with protecting your belongings properly. Here’s how to keep your possessions safe, organised, and in one piece (without costing the earth).

1. Start with the Right Boxes

Not all boxes are created equal. Skip the flimsy supermarket cartons and go for double-walled cardboard boxes. (All our branches sell boxes, so please ask!)

• Stronger = less risk of crushing.

• Stack neatly = use your storage space more efficiently.

• Recyclable = better for the planet.

💡 Pro tip: Keep box sizes consistent so they’re easier to stack (and less like a game of Jenga).

👉 Need storage space once you’re packed? Check out our self storage units in Exeter, Edinburgh and Ely.

2. Wrap Fragile Items Properly

Forget mountains of plastic bubble wrap — plain white wrapping paper does the job just as well.

• Cushion glasses, mugs, ornaments and photo frames.

• Easy to recycle when you’re finished.

• Cleaner than newspaper (no inky fingers).

Wrap each item individually, then add an extra layer of paper between things when boxing them up.

👉 More inspiration: Top 7 Packing Tips for an Organised Self-Storage Unit.

3. Label Everything Clearly

Future-you will thank you for this. Use a marker to write what’s in each box and which room it belongs to.

• “Kitchen – Plates & Bowls” beats “Random Stuff #4.”

• Mark fragile boxes so they don’t end up at the bottom of a stack.

• If you’re storing long-term, add a quick contents list on one side.

4. Pack Boxes Smartly

How you fill your boxes matters.

• Heavy items (like books) in small boxes so they’re easier to lift.

• Light, bulky items (like duvets or cushions) in bigger boxes.

• Fill gaps with scrunched paper to stop things shifting.

Think of it like Tetris — but with fewer points and more wine glasses at stake.

5. Choose a Storage Provider That’s Got Your Back

Even the best-packed box won’t help if your unit isn’t safe. At Ease the Squeeze, we make storage easy with:

• Secure, clean units in Exeter, Edinburgh and Ely.

• Flexible contracts (because life changes).

• Optional collection & delivery (so you don’t even have to load the car).

FAQs: Protecting Your Possessions in Storage

What’s the best way to store fragile items?
Wrap each one in plain white paper, place them snugly in a sturdy box, and fill gaps with scrunched paper for extra cushioning.

Can I use plastic boxes instead of cardboard?
You can — but sturdy cardboard boxes are cost-effective, stack neatly, and are recyclable.

How do I stop boxes collapsing in storage?
Always use double-walled cardboard boxes, don’t overpack, and put heavier boxes at the bottom of your stack.

Final Thought

Protecting your possessions in storage isn’t complicated. With the right boxes, some white wrapping paper, and a bit of smart stacking, you can rest easy knowing everything’s safe until you need it again.

Simple. Sustainable. Sorted!

👉 Ready to ease the squeeze? Get a storage quote today.