11 Essential Tips for Long-Term Storage of Electronics and Appliances: A Guide for New Yorkers 
If you’re planning to store your electronics and appliances in New York for a long period, it’s crucial to prepare them properly to ensure they remain in good condition and function properly when needed. Whether you’re moving to a new home, downsizing, or simply need to clear some space, these 12 tips for electronic and appliance long-term storage will help you safeguard your valuable possessions.
Tip #1- Clean and dry your items thoroughly
Before storing your electronics and appliances, it’s essential to clean and dry them thoroughly. Dirt and moisture can cause damage over time, so make sure to remove any dust, debris, or stains. Use a soft, dry cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean your items. If necessary, you can also use a mild cleaning solution or a specialized cleaning product for electronic devices. Just make sure to read the instructions carefully and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage your items.
Once your items are clean, make sure they are completely dry before storing them. Moisture can cause corrosion, rust, or mold, which can ruin your electronics and appliances. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down your items, and leave them in a well-ventilated area to air dry for a few hours before packing them up.
Tip #2 – Remove batteries from electronics
If you’re storing electronic devices in New York such as cameras, remote controls, or toys, it’s important to remove the batteries before storage. Batteries can leak and corrode over time, which can damage your electronics and make them unusable. To prevent this, simply remove the batteries from your devices and store them separately in a cool, dry place.
If you’re not sure how to remove the batteries or need help with this step, consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance.
Tip #3- Wrap and pack your items carefully
Once your electronics and appliances are clean and dry, it’s time to wrap and pack them carefully. Use protective materials such as bubble wrap, foam, or packing paper to wrap your items and prevent damage during transport or storage. Pay special attention to fragile or delicate items such as glass screens, lenses, or circuit boards.
Pack your items in sturdy boxes or containers that can withstand the weight and pressure of stacking. Choose boxes that are slightly larger than your items to leave some space for cushioning materials such as packing peanuts or bubble wrap. Make sure to fill any empty spaces with packing materials to prevent movement or shifting during transport.
Label each box or container with its contents and mark it as “fragile” or “handle with care” if necessary. Create an inventory of all the items you are storing and keep a copy for yourself and another one with the storage facility or moving company if applicable.
Tip #4 -Store your items in a dry and cool place
Choosing the right storage location is key to keeping your electronics and appliances in good condition. Avoid storing your items in areas with high humidity, extreme temperatures, or direct sunlight. These conditions can damage your items, cause rust, corrosion, or mold growth, or affect the performance of electronic devices.
Ideally, you should store your items in a dry, cool, and dark place such as a closet, a basement, or a storage unit. If you’re using a storage unit in Manhattan, look for one with climate control and humidity control features, especially if you’re storing sensitive items such as computers, cameras, or musical instruments. Climate-controlled storage units maintain a constant temperature and humidity level that can prevent damage from moisture, extreme heat, or cold.
Tip #5 – Disconnect power cords from appliances.
Before storing your appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, or dryers, it’s important to disconnect the power cords to prevent electrical surges or damage. Unplug the power cords from the wall sockets and wrap them neatly around the appliances or tie them with zip ties or twist ties. You can also label the cords or take a picture of the connections to help you remember how to reconnect them later.
If you’re storing large appliances, such as a refrigerator or a dishwasher, make sure to empty them of any food, water, or detergent residues. Clean them thoroughly and leave the doors open to prevent musty smells or mildew. You can also place a box of baking soda or activated charcoal inside to absorb any odors.
Tip #6- Use moisture absorbers to prevent humidity buildup
Moisture can be a major enemy of electronics and appliances, especially if you’re storing them for a long time. To prevent humidity buildup, you can use moisture absorbers such as silica gel packets, desiccant bags, or charcoal pouches. These products absorb excess moisture from the air and help keep your items dry and free of mold or mildew.
You can find moisture absorbers online, at hardware stores, or in some storage facilities. Make sure to choose the right size and quantity of absorbers based on the size and type of your items, and replace them regularly if they become saturated.
Tip #7 – Use original packaging if available
If you still have the original packaging of your electronics or appliances, use it for storage. Original packaging is designed to protect the items during shipping and storage and can provide the best protection against damage. If you don’t have the original packaging, you can use a sturdy box or container that fits your items and add extra padding or cushioning materials.
Make sure to label the box or container with its contents and mark it as fragile if applicable. Keep the box or container in a dry and cool place and avoid stacking heavy items on top of it.
Tip #8 – Lubricate moving parts of appliances
If you’re storing appliances with moving parts, such as motors, hinges, or wheels, consider lubricating them with light oil or lubricant. This can prevent rust and corrosion and ensure that the parts move smoothly when you take the items out of storage.
You can find lubricants at hardware stores or online, and apply them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to use a small amount of lubricant and avoid over-lubricating, as this can attract dust or debris and cause more problems.
Tip #9 – Keep your items away from pests
Pests such as rodents, insects, or spiders can cause damage to your electronics and appliances, as they can chew through wires, nest inside the devices, or leave droppings that can attract more pests. To prevent pest infestations, you can use pest-proof containers or use pest repellents such as mothballs, peppermint oil, or sticky traps.
Make sure to seal any gaps or holes in your storage area or unit and keep it clean and dry. Check your items regularly for signs of pest activity and take action if you notice any damage or droppings.
Tip #10- Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for storage
Before storing your electronics or appliances, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for long-term storage in Brooklyn. The manufacturer may have specific instructions or precautions for storing the items, such as removing certain parts, storing them upright or flat, or avoiding extreme temperatures or humidity levels.
You can find the manufacturer’s recommendations in the user manual, on the website, or by contacting customer support. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines can help you avoid any warranty issues or damages and ensure that your items remain in good condition.
Tip #11 – Choose a reputable storage provider
If you’re storing your electronics and appliances in a storage unit or with a moving company, make sure to choose a reputable provider. Look for a provider that offers secure and climate-controlled storage units, insurance coverage, and 24/7 surveillance.
Read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have used storage services before. Compare prices and features of different providers and ask for a quote that includes all the fees and terms.
Long-Term Storage for Appliances: Why Moishe’s is the Best Storage Solution in New York 
One of the best storage providers in New York is Moishe’s. With over 30 years of experience in the storage industry, Moishe offers a wide range of storage options for different needs and budgets. They have clean and secure storage units in different sizes, from small lockers to large warehouses, that can accommodate any type of item. They also offer climate-controlled units that maintain a constant temperature and humidity level, as well as 24/7 surveillance and pest control.
Moishe’s storage units are accessible 24/7, so you can retrieve your items anytime you need them. They also offer free pick-up and delivery for selected areas in New York City, which can save you time and effort. Their storage rates are competitive and transparent, and they offer flexible payment options, including monthly payments, autopay, and online bill pay.
If you’re not sure how much storage space you need, Moishe’s offers a free storage calculator on their website that can help you estimate the size of your items and suggest the best unit for you. They also have a team of storage experts who can answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process.
If you’re using Moishe’s storage services, you can request a free re-delivery of your items to any location in New York City or the Tri-State area, subject to terms and conditions. You can also request additional services such as packing, unpacking, or disassembly and assembly of furniture or appliances, for an additional fee.
Safeguard Your Electronics and Appliances with Moishe’s Storage Services in New York
Storing your electronics and appliances for a long period can be a challenge, but with these 11 tips and the help of a reputable storage provider such as Moishe’s, you can ensure that your items remain in good condition and function properly when needed. Remember to clean and dry your items thoroughly, wrap and pack them carefully, store them in a dry and cool place, and check the manufacturer’s recommendations for storage. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy peace of mind and protect your valuable possessions.
If you’re looking for a reliable and secure storage solution for your electronics and appliances in New York, contact Moishe’s today. With their state-of-the-art facilities, climate-controlled units, and experienced team of storage experts, Moishe’s can help you store your valuable items with peace of mind. Whether you’re moving, renovating, or just need more space, Moishe’s offers flexible and affordable storage options that can suit your needs and budget. Request a quote or schedule a tour of their facilities today and see why Moishe’s is the best storage provider in New York.