Household storage is a common form of self storage and means storing your household belongings at an external location.
Household goods include loose items found in the home, such as (garden) furniture, electronics, clothing, household appliances, bicycles, decorations, and more. People often use household storage when they are moving, renovating, temporarily renting or subletting, or when there is simply not enough space at home.
In the Netherlands, many storage services are available. You can store your belongings in a warehouse, garage, or a dedicated storage unit, for example. These storage options often come with different features that allow you to adapt the space to your needs.
When should you rent storage for your household goods?
For both major and minor changes in your household, storage can be a practical solution:
- Between moving dates
- During a renovation
- For a temporary move
- When moving to a larger or more spacious home, or a smaller one
- In the case of an inheritance
- For business storage needs
There are many moving companies available today, but if you want to make things easier, full-service storage is a convenient option. At BOXIE24, your belongings are picked up from your home, stored safely, and returned when and where you want. You can also request a free, non-binding quote.
How do you store specific items?
Furniture
From sofas, tables, mattresses, and wooden items to movable units, all types of furniture can be stored. Some items do require specific storage solutions. Fabric furniture, for example, is best stored in a climate-controlled space, while larger items are better suited to an open storage area.
To store furniture safely, you can take several precautions yourself. It is recommended to place a blanket or tarp underneath furniture, dismantle large items, wrap them in soft materials, use corner protectors, and tape glass or mirrors.
When placing furniture in the storage unit, using a rolling cart, such as a hand truck, makes the process easier. If possible, furniture can be stacked to save space, as long as everything remains stable and no pressure is placed on soft parts like upholstery.
Electronics
Electronics include televisions, computers and accessories, (game) consoles, hi-fi equipment, cameras, headphones, printers, chargers, and lighting.
These devices are sensitive to their environment. A suitable storage space should have a stable temperature and humidity level, be clean and dust-free, and allow in as little light as possible. Storage containers, shipping containers, and basements are therefore often unsuitable. When choosing a storage unit, it is important to check whether it is climate-controlled.
If electronics are not properly prepared for storage, there is a higher risk of short circuits, damage, rust, and fire hazards. Remove all batteries and, if possible, rechargeable batteries, fully switch off devices, and pack them in their original packaging where available. Use sturdy boxes and fill empty spaces with packing material to prevent dust buildup. Avoid stacking electronics, especially screens. If stacking is necessary, use tables or shelving to distribute weight safely.
Cables and ink cartridges should be labelled and stored in anti-static bags, which are easy to obtain.
Kitchen units and appliances
Kitchen furniture and appliances sometimes need to be removed during a renovation or move. This can include kitchen cabinets and small appliances, as well as larger items such as refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, and stoves.
All kitchen appliances should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before storage to prevent rust and built-up dirt. Hoses should also be properly drained and rinsed.
For storing tableware, dish boxes with dividers are recommended. Place plates on their sides and add soft material between each item. Always check that everything is completely dry before packing.
Tip: Leaving refrigerator or freezer doors closed during storage can cause strong odours. Always leave them slightly open or use a blanket or piece of cardboard to keep them ajar.
Clothing
For storage purposes, clothing includes all loose fabric items. This covers seasonal clothing, designer items, suits, delicate fabrics such as silk, as well as blankets and bedding. Sort clothing by season or occasion and label boxes clearly.
Clothing should always be washed before storage to remove stains, (micro)insects, and odours. Proper drying is essential, as damp clothing can lead to mould and unpleasant smells.
If the storage space has a suitable climate, it is recommended to let clothing breathe. Check whether ventilation is available. Clothing should not be hung uncovered but stored in garment bags or wardrobe boxes to protect against light, dust, and pests.
Although most storage facilities are designed to keep pests out, extra protection can offer peace of mind. Clothes moths are the most common issue, and lavender sachets or cedarwood are often used as preventive measures.
Documents
If you want important documents such as contracts, tax papers, policy documents, and manuals to be preserved without taking up space at home, storage is a practical option. Archive storage for private individuals is generally simpler than for businesses, but careful handling remains important.
Documents can be damaged by paper clips or other oxidising materials. Plastic folders are also less suitable, as they can cause paper to become acidic. The safest option is to store documents in archive boxes with paper archive folders.
If frequent access is needed, good organisation is essential. Using labels, colour coding, or clearly arranged shelving helps prevent documents from going missing and avoids having to search through every box.
What does storage for your inventory cost?
The cost of renting household storage usually depends on several factors:
- The size of the storage space, based on surface area (m²) or volume (m³)
- The rental period, measured in weeks or months, often costs slightly more with flexible terms
- The location, with higher prices in large cities such as Amsterdam or Rotterdam, compared to smaller cities or rural areas
- The level of service, of which full-service storage is usually more expensive than self-storage options
- Materials, such as boxes, labels, and wrapping materials, which may or may not be included
- Additional insurance, which may be covered by your home contents insurance or offered by the storage provider
Requesting a detailed quote helps clarify what is included in the service and what is not. It also allows you to discuss specific wishes or requirements in advance.
How do you protect your inventory against moisture, dust and damage?
Moisture, dust, mould, pressure, and wear can all cause damage if items are not properly prepared or stored in unsuitable conditions.
For this reason, storing household goods in garages, basements, containers, or outdoors is generally not recommended, as these spaces are too affected by environmental factors.
To reduce moisture-related risks, place items on pallets or shelves, slightly away from floors and walls, to improve air circulation. If needed, drying agents such as silica gel sachets can be added. Wrapping items too tightly in plastic, especially wooden or leather furniture, is not advised, as it can trap moisture and create a stuffy environment. A stable indoor climate is essential, as high humidity increases the risk of mould.
Ventilation also helps prevent dust buildup. When air circulates, dust is less likely to settle. Covering items with blankets or breathable packing materials keeps dust out while allowing items to breathe.
Damage can be prevented by understanding the needs of each item. Some belongings require a specific climate, while others are less sensitive. Sharp edges should be protected, and certain items should not be stacked. Always check what is covered by your home contents insurance and the storage provider’s insurance, and consider additional coverage if needed.
At BOXIE24, this is made easy. We offer a climate-controlled and secure environment, trained staff, and high-quality materials. We also collect your belongings from your home and return them when it suits you, with flexible rental terms. Storage, but made easy.
