Tips from Amanda, our self storage expert

Fragile items often carry more than just value, they hold memories too. Whether it's your best dinner set, delicate glassware, or a mirror you've had for years, it's important to store breakables properly to avoid damage. 

So, what's the best way to pack and store fragile items safely?

We asked Amanda, one of Pickfords' self storage experts, to share her top tips. 

Ask Amanda
What's the biggest mistake people make when storing fragile items? 

Amanda says
Rushing the packing. Fragile items need time, the right materials, and careful stacking. Most breakages happen because things aren't wrapped individually or boxes aren't filled properly. 

Here's Amanda's guide to storing fragile items the right way. 

1. Start with the right packing materials 

Amanda saysYour packing materials matter just as much as how you stack your boxes. If you cut corners here, you're taking a big risk! 

Amanda recommends: 

• Visiting our Pickfords eco box shop in store for all your packing materials. 
• Use bubble wrap for added protection. 
• Use packing paper, as it's ideal for wrapping or separating items. 
• Use strong cartons rather than reused weakened boxes.
• Tape and labels can help identify cartons that contain your fragile belongings.
• Make cardboard dividers for sets of glassware.

2. Packing china safely (plates, bowls and cutlery) 

Ask Amanda 
What is the safest way to pack plates? 

Amanda says 
Always wrap individually and stand plates on their edges - NEVER stack them flat. It gives them much more strength. 

Amanda's step-by-step guide to packing china: 

• Line the bottom of the carton with bubble wrap for cushioning. 
• Wrap each piece individually in white paper.
• Stand plates on their ends (edge-on), like records in a rack.
• Add an extra layer of bubble wrap for maximum protection.
• Fill any gaps so nothing can move in transit or storage.

What to avoid:

• Packing plates flat on top of each other 
• Leaving empty space in the box
• Putting heavy items on top of china cartons

3. Packing glassware and fine crystal 

Amanda says
Glassware breaks most often because it shifts inside the box. If it can move, it can break.

Amanda's best practice. 

• Use white paper to protect glassware and crystal 
• Wrap each glass in a double layer of paper
• Place glasses upside down in a standard carton
• If packing a set, use plate dividers to create an extra shelf and pack the next set on top

Amanda adds - If you're storing for a long period, double up on protection, it's always worth it.

4. Packing mirrors for storage 

Ask Amanda 
Mirrors always feel risky, what's the best way to store them?

Amanda says
Treat mirrors like artwork. Protect the surface, protect the corners and store them upright. 

Tips:

• Clean the mirror first (dust can scratch during movement) 
• Cover the surface using white paper or a soft protective layer
• Wrap fully in bubble wrap, especially corners and edges
• Tape securely (without letting tape touch the glass surface) 
• Store mirrors upright, never flat
• Never stack heavy items against mirrors

Pro tip from Amanda
Put mirrors towards the back or side of your unit, where they won't be knocked and keep them upright between stable items like wardrobes or mattresses.

5. Label everything clearly 

Amanda says
It sounds simple, but labels save breakages. If someone sees 'Fragile', they'll handle it correctly.

6. Store fragile boxes the right way up 

Ask Amanda
Once everything's packed, how should it be placed in the storage unit?

Amanda says
Fragile boxes should always go on top, NEVER at the bottom. And do not over stack... 

Tips:

• Place heavier items and furniture at the back of the unit
• Keep fragile cartons higher up and closer to the front if needed
• Avoid stacking too high, stability is key
• Keep a small access path so you don't have to pull boxes out dangerously

7. Consider insurance for peace of mind 

Amanda says
If you're storing valuables, it's worth considering insurance. It's one less thing to worry about. 

If you would like to insure your items, contact your local Pickfords Self Storage facility and our team can help you ensure you take out the right cover for your items.

Final thoughts from Amanda 

Amanda says
Packing fragile items properly isn't difficult. It just takes care and planning. Wrap everything individually, use the right materials, and store cartons in a way that keeps them stable and protected. 

Need more support? We are here to help. From expert advice to packing materials, you need to protect your belongings properly.