If you need to empty your house for building work, or if you are going travelling you may want to store your appliances such as fridge, cooker, freezer, dryer and washing machine for a while. You might also want to store smaller appliances that only get seasonal use. For example, a heater in the summer. But what is the best way of storing white goods?

Ask your storage company about domestic appliances

Most storage companies are well used to storing household appliances. But it is worth quickly checking that everything you want to store is allowed at your facility. Look in the terms and conditions or give them a call and ask.

Generally you will not be allowed to store fuel for a stove or heater – so no gas cylinders, for example. And it goes without saying that your fridge and freezer will have to be emptied and switched off: you can’t store food and perishable items.

Go for a climate-controlled storage unit

A climate-controlled storage unit will keep your appliances in tip-top condition. And ask for a ground floor unit to make moving in and out easy.

Clean and dry appliances before you store them

Dried on food on cookers, ovens and fridges can attract pests, and may start to smell after a while. So give appliances a good scrub before you put them away. Check UK Whitegoods for advice on cleaning every kind of domestic appliance.

Drain water from washing machine tanks and hoses to prevent unwanted puddles during transport and to prevent mould growth in storage.

Pack white goods with care

Smaller appliances can go in their original boxes if you have them, or labelled boxes of the appropriate size. Tape oven and fridge doors shut and use moving blankets to protect the surfaces of larger appliances from bumps and dents. This goes double if you’ve paid extra for a smart finish!

Move fridges and washing machines carefully

Appliances need a bit of care during moves. Remember washing machines are very heavy and awkward, so get professional help if you need it, and look for a storage facility that offers trolleys and lifts. Appliances are designed to stand in a particular way, so keep them upright during the move to prevent damage. Check whether your household appliances are insured during transit: Store and Insure will cover your goods while you move in many cases, so organise your policy before you begin.

Place white goods carefully

Store appliances against the walls so they don’t block access to items you want to get at more frequently. Store them upright, too and consider raising them off the floor on pallets to promote air circulation. It’s best to place heavy items on the floor, with lighter items on top.

Make use of stored appliances

Appliances should not be plugged in or used in your storage unit. But you could certainly use the space inside a clean fridge, freezer or washing machine to store smaller items.

Are my stored white goods insured under my household contents insurance?

Some household contents insurance includes items in storage, but not all. You should check your policy carefully. If you do need insurance for your household appliances in storage, contact Store and Insure for a quote.