In Martinsville, VA, the fragile things people store often aren't just breakable, they're irreplaceable. The good china from a grandmother's cabinet. Hand-blown glass that's been in the family for decades. Antiques passed down through an estate. At Cardinal State Storage, we treat these the way you would, and packing them properly is where preservation begins.
Here's how to give heirlooms the care they deserve.
For pieces that matter, don't cut corners on supplies. Acid-free packing paper won't yellow or transfer onto delicate surfaces, and it's worth it for anything you plan to keep for years. Add bubble wrap for cushioning and use small, rigid boxes, ideally dish-pack boxes with dividers for stemware and china. Newspaper has no place near a treasured piece.
Wrap every item on its own, with an extra layer around handles, spouts, and thin edges where breaks start. Stand plates on their sides rather than stacking, and cushion each layer generously. For antiques with delicate joints or finishes, wrap the whole piece and avoid taping anything directly to the surface.
Label fragile boxes clearly and keep them light enough to handle without strain. In the unit, fragile always rides on top. And for heirlooms meant to last, a climate-controlled unit is the real difference-maker, Southern Virginia's humidity is hard on old wood, paper, and glued seams, and steady conditions help these pieces reach the next generation intact.
When what you're storing carries family history, a careful hour of packing protects decades of memory. That's an easy trade.
Preserving something precious? Stop by Cardinal State Storage in Martinsville or reserve online, and we'll help you find the right unit and supplies to keep it safe.