Where To Store Your Items During Home Renovations

You can store your items in a storage unit, in a friend's home or in a spare room during home renovations. 

Home renovations are an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into your space - whether you're updating a tired kitchen, revamping the bathroom, or going all in on a full-home makeover.

But while you’re dreaming about finishes, fixtures, and fresh layouts, there’s one question that often gets overlooked: where are you going to keep all your stuff while the work’s going on?

Between dust, debris, and the general chaos of construction, your things are at serious risk of getting damaged, lost, or just being in the way.

Luckily, there are plenty of clever storage options to help keep everything safe and organised until the dust (literally) settles.

 

Storage Options During A Renovation

 

When it comes to finding a temporary home for your things during a renovation, you’ve got more choices than you might think.

Here are some of the most popular (and practical) options:

 

1. Storage-by-the-Box 

These services are super handy for when you don’t need a full storage unit. You just pack your stuff into boxes, and the company collects, stores, and delivers them back when you're ready.

It's affordable, space-saving, and perfect for things like clothes, books, documents, and smaller household items.

Top pick? Try The Box Co. - storage-by-the-box from just £3.56 a month. No need to hire a van or drag boxes to a unit. It’s all collected from your doorstep.

 

2. Self-Storage Units

Great for bigger renovations or if you’re storing furniture and appliances.

You can rent a unit in a size that suits your stuff and access it whenever you like. Many offer 24/7 CCTV, climate control, and flexible terms.

 

3. Garage

If you’ve got a garage, use it! It’s a no-cost option and great for big items or things you won’t need access to until the work’s done. Just make sure it’s clean, dry, and free from pests.

 

4. Spare Room

Another no-cost solution - especially good for smaller renovations. Just move your stuff into a room that won’t be affected by the work. Use clothing racks, dust sheets and sealable boxes to protect everything from dust.

 

5. A Friend or Family Member’s Home

Sometimes a favour is all you need. If a friend has a bit of space, ask if you can store a few boxes or a piece of furniture. Just be respectful and don’t overstay your storage welcome!

 

6. Portable Storage Containers

Also known as mobile storage or container storage, these are weatherproof containers delivered to your property. 

You fill them up, then they’re either kept on-site or taken away for storage. Great if you’re short on time or don’t want to deal with removals.

 

What Are The Pros and Cons Of Different Storage Options?

 

Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose the right fit:

 

 

How To Pack For Storage During A Home Renovation

 

Whether you’re using a storage unit or just tucking things away in another room, how you pack makes all the difference. Here are some tips to do it right:

• Declutter first: Don’t pack what you don’t need. Donate, sell or bin anything that’s just taking up space.

• Group similar items: Keep like with like - kitchen bits together, clothes in one box, and so on.

• Label everything: It’ll make unpacking way easier.

• Wrap fragile items: Use bubble wrap, packing paper or even towels for extra protection. For delicate things, consider double-boxing.

• Seal boxes properly: Strong packing tape helps keep dust and debris out.

• Don’t overload: Heavy boxes can crush what’s inside - or strain your back.

If you’re going the box-by-box route, The Box Co. even provides the boxes and picks them up when you're ready - so it's totally stress-free.

 

How to Protect Your Furniture During Renovation

 

Furniture can be one of the trickiest things to store - but with a little care, you can keep it in great shape:

• Use protective covers: Wrap sofas, chairs, and tables in furniture pads or dust sheets to guard against scratches and dust build-up.

• Disassemble where possible: Beds, desks, and dining tables often come apart easily. This makes them easier to store and less prone to damage.

• Elevate off the floor: Especially if storing in a garage - use pallets or boards to keep furniture away from potential damp patches.

• Store vertically: Large items like sofas or rugs can be stored on their sides to save space (just make sure they’re secure and won’t tip).

 

Bonus Tip: Get Insurance

 

Even with all your prep, accidents can still happen - especially during major construction work. That’s why it’s worth looking into insurance:

• Check your home insurance: See if it covers stuff in storage or during renovations.

• Take photos: Document high-value items before packing them away, just in case.

• Consider extra cover: Some companies offer specific renovation insurance that includes stored items and temporary storage.

It’s one of those “better safe than sorry” situations - especially if you're storing things off-site or using a third-party provider.

 

Home Renovations - Where To Keep Your Stuff

 

A home renovation can completely transform your space, but it doesn’t have to turn your life upside down in the process.

With the right storage plan - whether it's using a spare room, a trusted friend’s garage, or a convenient box-by-box service, you can keep your stuff safe, organised, and out of harm’s way.

So before the builders arrive and the dust starts flying, take a little time to prep and pack properly. Future you (and your furniture) will thank you.