How to Store Household Appliances Safely

Buying a new washing machine, replacing a fridge or upgrading your tumble dryer can leave you with a surprisingly difficult question: what should you do with the old appliance?

Sometimes, the appliance you’re replacing is still in perfectly good working order.

Perhaps you’re keeping it for a family member, saving it for a future property or waiting until you’re ready to sell it.

You might also be moving house, renovating your kitchen or temporarily living somewhere that already has appliances installed.

Whatever the reason, large household appliances take up considerable space.

A spare fridge can dominate a garage. An unused washing machine can block access to a utility room. A tumble dryer sitting in the hallway is hardly an ideal long-term arrangement.

Self storage can be a practical option for suitable household appliances, provided they’re properly prepared and the storage facility permits them.

At SecureStore, we provide flexible storage solutions across Bury, Manchester, Failsworth and Salford, helping customers make more room at home without immediately having to dispose of belongings they may need again.

Why Would You Need to Store Household Appliances?

There are several situations where temporary appliance storage can make sense.

Moving Into a Furnished Property

You may own a washing machine, fridge or dishwasher but be moving into accommodation where these appliances are already provided.

Rather than selling your existing equipment, you might prefer to keep it until you move again.

Renovating Your Kitchen

A kitchen refurbishment can require appliances to be disconnected and moved out of the way.

If the project involves replacing flooring, changing the layout or installing new cabinets, temporary storage may help create a clearer working area.

Keeping Appliances for Another Property

Some homeowners and landlords keep suitable spare appliances for future use.

A working fridge or washing machine could be useful in another property, although its age, condition and suitability should always be considered.

Downsizing

Moving to a smaller home can mean you no longer have room for every appliance you own.

Storage may give you time to decide what to keep, sell or pass on.

Which Household Appliances Can Be Stored?

Subject to SecureStore’s terms and the manufacturer’s instructions, suitable disconnected household appliances may include:

• Washing machines
• Tumble dryers
• Refrigerators
• Freezers
• Dishwashers
• Microwaves
• Freestanding cookers
• Small kitchen appliances

However, not every appliance is suitable for ordinary self storage.

Gas appliances, damaged electrical equipment, appliances containing hazardous substances and certain battery-powered products may require specialist arrangements or may be prohibited.

Always discuss the appliance with SecureStore before bringing it to the facility.

How to Prepare a Washing Machine for Storage

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Washing machines are among the most awkward household appliances to move.

They’re heavy, contain internal components and may retain water even after a wash cycle has finished.

Correct preparation is important.

1. Disconnect the Appliance Safely

Switch off and unplug the machine.

Turn off the water supply before disconnecting hoses.

If you’re uncertain about the connections, arrange assistance from a competent professional.

2. Drain Remaining Water

Water can remain in the machine, hoses and drainage system.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for draining it safely.

Some machines have an accessible pump filter or emergency drain hose.

Be prepared for residual water when disconnecting hoses.

3. Clean the Drum and Detergent Drawer

Remove detergent residue and other build-up.

Clean the door seal and accessible areas according to the manufacturer’s guidance.

Allow everything to dry thoroughly.

4. Secure the Drum for Transport

Many washing machines require transit bolts to secure the drum during transportation.

Use the correct bolts and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Transporting a washing machine without appropriate drum protection can cause damage.

5. Keep It Upright

Washing machines should generally be transported and stored upright unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise.

Use appropriate moving equipment and assistance.

How to Store a Fridge Safely

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Fridges need particular attention before storage because they can develop unpleasant odours and mould if moisture is trapped inside.

Empty the Fridge Completely

Remove all food, drinks and other contents.

Do not place food inside a fridge being moved into ordinary self storage.

Clean the Interior

Remove shelves and drawers where appropriate.

Clean the interior using products suitable for the appliance and follow manufacturer guidance.

Dry Every Surface

Pay particular attention to door seals, corners and drainage channels.

Even a small amount of trapped moisture can create problems during long-term storage.

Keep the Door Safely Ajar

Where safe and permitted, leaving the door slightly open can help ventilation and reduce odours.

Ensure the door cannot swing open unexpectedly or create a safety hazard.

Transport Upright Where Possible

Refrigerators contain refrigerant and compressor components.

Follow the manufacturer’s guidance about transportation, orientation and how long to wait before reconnecting the appliance.

Do not transport or store a fridge with a damaged or leaking refrigerant system. Seek specialist advice if damage is suspected.

How to Prepare a Freezer for Storage

Freezers require similar preparation to refrigerators, but defrosting is especially important.

Defrost Completely

Turn off the freezer and allow sufficient time for ice to melt.

Place towels or suitable containers to collect water.

Do not use sharp tools to chip away ice, as this can damage the appliance.

Remove All Food

A freezer placed in storage must be completely empty.

Ordinary storage units are not suitable for keeping frozen food.

Clean and Dry

Once defrosted, clean the interior and dry it thoroughly.

Check door seals and drainage areas.

Protect Removable Components

If you remove shelves or drawers, pack them carefully and label them.

Avoid leaving loose components where they could be damaged during transport.

How to Store a Tumble Dryer

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Tumble dryers vary depending on their design.

Some are vented, some use condenser systems and others use heat pump technology.

Preparation should reflect the particular model.

Empty Water Containers

If your dryer has a removable condensate tank, empty it.

Clean the Lint Filter

Remove accumulated lint according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Lint build-up can create safety concerns when the appliance is returned to use.

Check Drainage Connections

Some tumble dryers have direct drainage hoses.

Disconnect and drain these according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Follow Heat Pump Dryer Guidance

Heat pump dryers can contain refrigerant circuits.

They may have particular transport and positioning requirements.

Check the manufacturer’s instructions before moving or storing one.

How to Prepare a Dishwasher for Storage

Dishwashers can retain water in internal hoses, filters and drainage areas.

Before storage:

1. Disconnect the power and water supplies safely.
2. Follow manufacturer instructions for draining.
3. Remove food debris from accessible filters.
4. Clean the interior.
5. Dry accessible surfaces.
6. Secure racks and removable parts.
7. Protect hoses and connections during transport.

If the appliance has been built into a kitchen, professional removal may be appropriate.

Why Appliances Must Be Completely Dry

One of the biggest mistakes people make is placing an appliance into storage while it still contains moisture.

Trapped water can contribute to:

• Mould growth
• Unpleasant odours
• Corrosion
• Damage to internal components
• Deterioration of seals and fittings

Allow sufficient drying time before packing.

For appliances with internal water systems, follow manufacturer draining instructions rather than assuming that wiping visible surfaces is enough.

Should You Wrap Appliances in Plastic?

Protective wrapping can help prevent scratches and surface damage.

However, wrapping a damp appliance tightly in impermeable plastic may trap moisture.

Make sure the appliance is clean and dry before applying suitable protective materials.

Use manufacturer-recommended protection where available.

Avoid blocking necessary ventilation in a way that could create problems.

How to Move Heavy Appliances Safely

Washing machines, fridges and other large appliances can be difficult to handle.

Trying to move them without suitable equipment can cause injuries or property damage.

Before moving an appliance, consider:

• Its weight
• Its dimensions
• Doorway widths
• Stairs
• Uneven surfaces
• Vehicle loading
• The number of people required
• Suitable lifting equipment

The Health and Safety Executive provides useful guidance about manual handling:

hse.gov.uk/msd/manual-handling/

Never attempt to lift an appliance beyond your capabilities.

Measure Your Appliances Before Booking Storage

Appliances can be larger than they appear.

Measure the height, width and depth of each item.

Remember to allow for packaging and safe handling.

If you’re storing several appliances together, consider how they’ll be positioned.

Don’t assume they can be stacked.

Heavy appliances should generally remain on the floor in their intended orientation unless the manufacturer permits another arrangement.

Can You Stack Appliances in Storage?

Stacking large appliances is generally not advisable unless the manufacturer specifically permits it and the correct equipment is used.

For example, washing machines and tumble dryers may sometimes be stacked in domestic settings using manufacturer-approved stacking kits.

That doesn’t automatically mean they’re safe to stack during storage.

Avoid placing heavy appliances on top of one another without an approved arrangement.

How Long Can You Store Household Appliances?

There isn’t one universal storage period that applies to every appliance.

Suitability depends on:

• The appliance’s condition
• Its age
• Manufacturer instructions
• Environmental requirements
• How it has been prepared
• Whether it contains components that deteriorate during inactivity

Some appliances may be suitable for temporary storage, while others require more specialist consideration.

If you’re planning long-term storage, check the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Is It Worth Keeping an Old Appliance?

Before paying to store an appliance, consider whether keeping it makes financial sense.

Ask yourself:

• Does it still work properly?
• How old is it?
• Is it energy efficient?
• Will I realistically use it again?
• Is it expensive to replace?
• Could I sell it now?
• How much would storage cost?

A relatively new washing machine in good condition may be worth keeping.

A very old, inefficient fridge that you have no plans to use may not be.

Storage should help you make practical decisions, not simply postpone them indefinitely.

Consider Energy Efficiency

Older appliances can sometimes use considerably more electricity than newer alternatives.

If you’re storing an old fridge or freezer for future use, compare its energy performance with available replacement models.

You can find information about energy labels and product efficiency through GOV.UK:

gov.uk

An appliance that’s inexpensive to keep may still be costly to operate later.

Selling Appliances You No Longer Need

If you’ve decided not to keep an appliance, selling it may be an option.

Potential resale platforms include:

• Facebook Marketplace
• eBay
• Local second-hand appliance businesses

Be accurate about the appliance’s condition.

Don’t sell unsafe or defective electrical equipment as though it is suitable for normal use.

Keep relevant manuals and accessories where possible.

Recycling Old Electrical Appliances

If an appliance is beyond repair, recycling is often preferable to simply leaving it unused.

Electrical appliances contain materials that may be recoverable.

Fridges and freezers also require appropriate handling because of their refrigerants and insulation materials.

Use an authorised recycling or collection service.

Recycle Your Electricals provides UK guidance:

recycleyourelectricals.org.uk

You can also check your local council’s arrangements for bulky waste and electrical appliance recycling.

What About Appliance Insurance?

Large appliances can represent a significant financial investment.

If you’re placing suitable equipment into storage, consider whether it needs insurance.

SecureStore offers storage insurance options.

Speak to the team about the appliances you intend to store, their value and the cover available.

Check any exclusions and conditions carefully.

Don’t Use Appliances While They’re in Storage

An ordinary self storage unit isn’t a utility room or workshop.

You should not assume that you can connect a washing machine to water, operate a tumble dryer or run a fridge inside the unit.

Storage is intended for permitted belongings, not for using household appliances.

Confirm SecureStore’s rules before arranging storage.

Removal + Storage for Large Appliances

Transporting appliances can be one of the most difficult parts of the process.

A washing machine may require careful disconnection and drum protection.

A fridge may need to remain upright.

A large tumble dryer may be awkward to manoeuvre through narrow doorways.

SecureStore provides Removal + Storage for suitable belongings.

Speak to our team about the appliance’s dimensions, weight and handling requirements.

Any disconnection, specialist handling or reconnection must be arranged appropriately and may not be included in the service.

How to Choose the Right Storage Unit

The correct unit size depends on the number and dimensions of the appliances.

If you’re storing a single washing machine, you may need much less space than someone storing a complete kitchen’s worth of appliances.

Think about whether you also need to store:

• Shelves and drawers
• Appliance accessories
• Original packaging
• Small kitchen equipment
• Other permitted household belongings

SecureStore can discuss suitable unit options based on your requirements.

Ask About SecureStore’s Introductory Offers

SecureStore previously introduced a limited two-week flash promotion offering eligible customers their first month of storage for £1.

If you’re arranging temporary appliance storage, ask whether that promotion or another introductory offer is currently available.

All promotions are subject to eligibility, availability and applicable terms.

How to Book Your Unit With SecureStore

If you need somewhere to keep suitable household appliances, getting started is straightforward.

1. Decide which appliances are worth retaining.
2. Check their condition and manufacturer’s storage instructions.
3. Confirm the appliances are permitted by SecureStore.
4. Disconnect them safely.
5. Drain, defrost and clean them as appropriate.
6. Allow everything to dry thoroughly.
7. Measure each appliance.
8. Arrange safe transportation.
9. Contact SecureStore to discuss a suitable unit.
10. Ask about Removal + Storage and current introductory offers.

Call: 0161 470 0288

Email: info@securestoreselfstorage.co.uk

Visit: 574 Manchester Road, Bury

Storage locations: Bury | Manchester | Failsworth | Salford

Our team can discuss available unit sizes, storage terms and the suitability of your belongings.

Make More Room Without Rushing Your Decision

Replacing a household appliance doesn’t always mean you need to dispose of the old one immediately.

Sometimes, keeping a working washing machine, fridge or tumble dryer for future use makes practical sense.

But storing large appliances at home can quickly become inconvenient.

By preparing them correctly, following manufacturer instructions and choosing appropriate storage, you may be able to keep suitable equipment without sacrificing valuable living space.

SecureStore offers flexible self storage and Removal + Storage across Bury, Manchester, Failsworth and Salford.

Whether you’re renovating, moving house or simply keeping a spare appliance, contact our team to discuss your options.

Call 0161 470 0288 or email info@securestoreselfstorage.co.uk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put a washing machine in self storage?

A suitable disconnected washing machine may be permitted, subject to SecureStore’s terms. It should be properly drained, cleaned, dried and prepared for transport according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Can I store a fridge or freezer?

Suitable empty, disconnected fridges and freezers may be permitted. They should be fully defrosted, cleaned and dried, with their transport and storage requirements checked beforehand.

Should a washing machine be transported upright?

Washing machines should generally be transported upright with the correct transit protection where required. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your particular model.

Can I leave food inside a fridge or freezer in storage?

No. Fridges and freezers must be emptied. Ordinary self storage is not suitable for keeping refrigerated or frozen food.

Does SecureStore help move heavy appliances?

SecureStore provides Removal + Storage for suitable belongings. Contact the team to discuss the appliance’s weight, dimensions and any specialist handling requirements.