Plastic Storage Tips for Furniture, Sofa Care and Home Organization

Got a couch, coffee table or a bunch of decor you need to stash? Plastic storage bins are cheap, lightweight and keep dust out. In this guide you’ll learn how to choose the right bin, pack it right, and avoid the pitfalls that people often miss.

Pick the Right Bin for the Job

First thing – size matters. A bin that’s too small will force you to cramp the sofa cushions, which can bend the frame. Look for bins that are at least one‑third taller than your item’s height. Clear bins are a win because you can see what’s inside without opening them.

If you’re moving a daybed couch (see our Daybed Couch Guide post), a long, low‑profile bin works best. For coffee tables, a wide, shallow bin protects the legs and lets you slip a protective blanket underneath.

Pack Smart, Stay Safe

Wrap each piece in a breathable cover or a moving blanket before you tuck it into the bin. This stops scratches, which we discussed in Couch Covers. Add a layer of packing paper around delicate legs – it’s cheap and adds cushioning.

Don’t stack heavy boxes on top of plastic bins that hold a sofa. The weight can crush the bin and damage the frame, a common issue highlighted in our Furniture Storage article.

Label every bin with the room it belongs to and a short description. When you pull a bin out of a 10x10 storage unit, you’ll know exactly what’s inside without opening every single one – a trick we shared in Will a Couch Fit in a 10x10 Storage Unit?

Keep humidity low. Plastic can trap moisture, which leads to mold on fabric. Place a silica gel packet in each bin, or use a dehumidifier in the storage space. This simple step stops the mold problem we covered in Easy Ways to Stop Mold from Growing in Storage Spaces.

When you’re ready to move the bins, slide them out on a dolly instead of lifting. It saves your back and keeps the plastic from cracking.

Finally, make a habit of checking your stored furniture every few months. Pull out a few bins, air them out, and make sure the plastic isn’t yellowing or becoming brittle.

With these plastic storage basics, you can protect your sofas, coffee tables and décor without breaking the bank. Ready to organize? Grab a few clear bins, wrap your furniture, and start stacking smart today.

The Pros and Cons of Using Plastic Storage Containers for Your Home
Eliot Ravenswood 25 January 2025

The Pros and Cons of Using Plastic Storage Containers for Your Home

Plastic storage containers have become a staple in households around the world for organizing and storing various items. This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of using plastic containers, addressing concerns about durability, environmental impact, and safety. It also provides practical tips on how to maximize the effectiveness of these containers in your home organization. Whether you're looking to declutter your living space or seeking effective storage solutions, this article offers insights to help you make informed decisions.