Don't Let Your Washer Sit and Rust: The Right Way to Store a Washing Machine in Storage

Josh Summerhays • July 8, 2026

Large appliances often represent some of the biggest investments in a home, yet they are frequently overlooked when it comes to proper storage. A washing machine, in particular, contains electrical components, plumbing connections, moving parts, and internal mechanisms that all require a little extra attention before the appliance sits unused for weeks or months. Simply disconnecting it and placing it inside a storage unit may seem sufficient. Still, moisture left inside the machine can quickly create unpleasant odors, mold growth, corrosion, or even mechanical problems that become apparent only after the appliance is reinstalled.

Fortunately, protecting your washer doesn't require expensive supplies or complicated maintenance. Instead, it comes down to taking a few thoughtful steps before the appliance enters storage and choosing a well-organized place to keep it. If you're remodeling your laundry room, downsizing, waiting to move into a new home, or simply freeing up space around the house, selecting reliable storage options in Mount Airy, NC, gives you a secure place to keep large household appliances while preserving their condition for the future. Because washing machines are heavy and awkward to move, many homeowners hope they only have to transport them once. Preparing the appliance properly the first time helps ensure that when it finally comes back out of storage, it performs just as well as it did before.

Key Points for Readers Short on Time

Always clean and completely dry the washing machine before placing it into storage.
Disconnect hoses, drain all remaining water, and secure loose components before moving the appliance.
Store the washer in an upright position to protect the drum and suspension system.
Leave the door slightly open while stored to encourage airflow and reduce moisture buildup.
Organizing your storage unit properly helps protect both your washing machine and the rest of your belongings.

Why Washing Machines Need Special Attention Before Storage

Unlike many pieces of furniture, a washing machine is constantly exposed to water during everyday use. Even after a normal wash cycle finishes, moisture remains hidden inside drain pumps, hoses, detergent compartments, seals, and the drum itself. Although these small amounts of water aren't noticeable during regular use, they can become problematic once the appliance sits untouched for an extended period. Over time, trapped moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew to develop. The result is often a musty odor that's difficult to remove and can transfer to clothing during the first few loads after reinstalling the washer. In more serious situations, standing water may contribute to corrosion on certain metal components or cause rubber seals to deteriorate more quickly than expected.

Additionally, modern washing machines are far more sophisticated than many people realize. Internal suspension systems, electronic controls, sensors, pumps, and bearings all work together to provide smooth operation. Although these components are designed to withstand years of regular washing, they benefit greatly from careful preparation before extended storage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing major household appliances represents a significant household expense, making proper care an easy way to protect your investment over the long term.

Start With a Thorough Cleaning

Before disconnecting anything, spend some time giving the washing machine a complete cleaning. While this may seem unnecessary since the appliance cleans clothes every day, washing machines actually collect detergent residue, hard water minerals, lint, body oils, and bacteria over time. If these materials remain inside while the appliance sits unused, they can contribute to unpleasant smells and encourage mold growth. Most manufacturers recommend running one final cleaning cycle before long-term storage. Depending on your washer model, this may involve using a commercial washing machine cleaner or running an empty hot water cycle with white vinegar. Always consult your owner's manual before choosing a cleaning method, since recommendations vary slightly between manufacturers.

After completing the cleaning cycle, don't stop there. Open every compartment and wipe down all accessible surfaces with a clean microfiber cloth. Pay particular attention to areas where moisture commonly collects, including:

The inside of the drum
The detergent drawer
Fabric softener compartments
The rubber door gasket on front-loading machines
The underside of the lid on top-loading models
Exterior surfaces and the control panel

Don't Rush the Drying Process

Once the washer has been cleaned, drying becomes just as important as washing it. In fact, many storage-related problems occur because people assume the final spin cycle removes all of the moisture. Unfortunately, that isn't the case. Water often remains trapped inside the drain pump, hoses, rubber seals, and lower portions of the drum. Even small amounts of standing water can become stagnant after several weeks without airflow. To prevent this, leave the washer door open for at least twenty-four hours after the cleaning cycle. If your model has a removable detergent drawer, pull it out slightly so air can circulate more freely throughout the interior. Use several dry towels to wipe down the drum, the gasket, and any visible moisture around the door opening.

Many front-loading washers also contain a drain filter near the bottom of the appliance. Carefully opening this compartment allows any remaining water to drain completely before storage. It is a small task that can prevent unpleasant surprises later. Although waiting a full day may seem inconvenient when you're trying to move quickly, allowing the appliance to dry completely is one of the simplest ways to protect it while it's being stored.

Disconnect Everything Carefully

After the washer has dried thoroughly, it's time to disconnect the appliance from its utilities. Rather than rushing through this step, work methodically so every component remains organized and easy to reconnect later. Begin by unplugging the electrical cord. Instead of allowing it to hang loosely, coil it neatly and secure it with reusable hook and loop straps or soft ties. This prevents the cord from becoming damaged while moving the appliance through doorways or loading it into a moving truck.

Next, disconnect both water supply hoses. Have a bucket and several towels nearby because even recently drained hoses usually contain some residual water. Once removed, inspect each hose carefully. If you notice cracks, corrosion, bulges, or worn fittings, replacing the hoses before reinstalling the washer is often much easier than discovering a leak after moving into your new home. Small accessories are also surprisingly easy to lose during a move. Rubber washers, hose caps, owner's manuals, and installation hardware should all be placed inside a labeled plastic storage bag. Taping that bag securely to the back of the appliance helps ensure every necessary component stays together.

Secure the Drum Before Moving

One of the most overlooked parts of preparing a washing machine for storage involves protecting the internal drum during transportation. When washing machines leave the factory, manufacturers install shipping bolts that lock the drum in place. These bolts prevent excessive movement that could damage suspension springs or internal supports while the appliance is transported. If you saved those original shipping bolts, reinstalling them before moving the washer is highly recommended. The owner's manual typically explains exactly where they should be inserted. If the bolts are no longer available, check with the manufacturer to determine whether replacement shipping hardware can be purchased. Likewise, wrapping the washer in moving blankets provides another important layer of protection. Unlike plastic wrap alone, thick moving blankets help absorb bumps and impacts while transporting the appliance through narrow hallways, staircases, or moving trucks.

Always Keep the Washing Machine Upright

Once the washer reaches your storage unit, its position becomes extremely important. Although laying the appliance on its side may appear to save valuable floor space, doing so can create problems that aren't immediately visible. The suspension system inside a washing machine is engineered to operate while standing upright. Tilting the appliance for an extended period may allow internal components to shift or place unnecessary pressure on parts that weren't designed to support the appliance's weight in that direction. Certain lubricants can also migrate into areas where they don't belong, increasing the possibility of future mechanical issues.

Instead, position the washer on a level surface and leave enough surrounding space to move comfortably around it. Some homeowners choose to place a sheet of plywood beneath the appliance to provide additional stability and create a slight barrier between the washer and the concrete floor. Just as importantly, avoid stacking heavy furniture or boxes directly against the appliance. Although washing machines have sturdy metal cabinets, repeated pressure from shifting storage items can dent the exterior or make future access unnecessarily difficult.

Organize Your Storage Unit So Your Washer Stays Protected

Once your washing machine has been placed inside the storage unit, it's worth taking a few extra minutes to think about the overall layout. While the washer may be one of the largest items you're storing, it shouldn't become buried behind stacks of boxes or wedged into a corner where retrieving it later becomes difficult. Planning the arrangement from the beginning not only protects your belongings but also makes future visits much more convenient. Try to create a central walkway that allows you to access larger items without having to unload half the unit. Position the washing machine near a wall while leaving enough room around it to inspect the appliance if needed. This is especially helpful if the washer will remain in storage for several months and you'd like to check on it periodically.

Heavy appliances should also remain separate from fragile household items. Boxes containing dishes, electronics, artwork, or family keepsakes should never be stacked against the washer simply because there is available space. Even though the appliance itself is sturdy, shifting boxes can become unstable over time, particularly if items are added or removed during the storage period. Another helpful strategy is to group belongings according to how soon you'll need them again. Seasonal decorations, sporting equipment, and camping supplies may be used several times throughout the year, while the washing machine might remain untouched until a renovation or move is complete. Organizing the unit according to frequency of use reduces unnecessary lifting and helps prevent accidental damage. If you're looking for additional ways to make every square foot count, this guide on storage tips to maximize your rental space offers practical ideas for arranging furniture, appliances, and boxes efficiently while keeping everything easy to reach.

Should You Cover Your Washing Machine? Absolutely, But Choose the Right Cover

Many people assume that wrapping a washing machine tightly in plastic is the best way to protect it from dust. While plastic works well during transportation, it isn't always the best solution for long-term storage. The problem is that plastic doesn't breathe. If even a small amount of moisture remains inside the appliance, sealing it completely can trap condensation around the drum and internal components. Over time, that trapped moisture may contribute to mildew, unpleasant odors, or even rust. Instead, choose a breathable appliance cover, cotton furniture cover, or clean moving blanket that shields the washer from dust while still allowing air to circulate. These materials protect without trapping humidity inside the appliance.

Likewise, resist the temptation to close the washer door completely. Leaving it slightly open allows fresh air to circulate through the drum and significantly reduces the likelihood of mold developing during storage. Some homeowners place a folded microfiber cloth between the door and the frame to maintain a small opening while preventing the door from swinging freely. Although these details may seem minor, they can have a noticeable impact on the condition of the appliance when it eventually returns to service.

How Long Can a Washing Machine Stay in Storage?

One question homeowners frequently ask is whether there's a limit to how long a washing machine can safely remain in storage. The reassuring answer is that, with proper preparation, the appliance can stay stored for an extended period without experiencing significant problems. The length of storage is far less important than the condition of the washer before it was stored. A machine that was thoroughly cleaned, completely dried, transported carefully, and stored upright is much more likely to remain in excellent condition than one that was disconnected immediately after its last load of laundry and placed into storage with moisture still inside.

That said, if your washer will remain in storage for many months, occasional inspections are worthwhile. Whenever you visit your storage unit, take a quick look at the appliance to ensure the cover remains in place, the door is still slightly open, and there are no signs of moisture, pests, or shifting items nearby. These quick checks require only a few minutes but can help identify small issues before they become larger problems.

Common Mistakes That Can Shorten the Life of Your Washer

Even well-intentioned homeowners sometimes overlook small details that affect an appliance's condition over time. Fortunately, most of these mistakes are easy to avoid once you know what to watch for.

Some of the most common storage mistakes include:

Storing the washing machine with water still inside the drum or hoses.
Lay the appliance on its side to save floor space.
Wrapping the entire washer in airtight plastic for months at a time.
Forgetting to secure the power cord and hoses before transportation.
Closing the washer door tightly instead of allowing airflow.
Stacking heavy furniture or boxes against the appliance.
Losing installation hardware or hose connections during the move.

None of these issues may seem serious at first, yet together they can create unnecessary repairs, unpleasant odors, or additional work when it's finally time to reinstall the washer.

Getting Your Washing Machine Ready to Use Again

Eventually, every storage period comes to an end. Whether you've finished renovating your laundry room or are settling into a new home, taking a little time before reconnecting the appliance helps ensure everything operates smoothly. Begin by removing the protective cover and inspecting the exterior for dust or signs of damage. Check behind the washer for loose accessories, hoses, or installation hardware that may have been stored alongside it. Before reconnecting the water supply, inspect the hoses one more time for cracks, brittleness, or worn fittings. If they show any signs of age, replacing them now can help prevent future leaks.

Once everything has been connected according to the manufacturer's instructions, run an empty hot water cycle before washing clothes. This simple step flushes away any dust, stale air, or residue that may have accumulated while the appliance was stored. If you're coordinating several moving tasks at once, reviewing this helpful moving and storage checklist guide can help keep the entire process organized. Having a detailed checklist makes it easier to track appliances, furniture, boxes, and utility connections without overlooking important details during a busy move.

Storage Makes Home Projects Much Easier

Although many people rent storage units during a move, they're equally useful during home improvement projects. Renovating a laundry room, replacing flooring, repainting walls, or upgrading plumbing often requires moving large appliances out of the workspace for days or even weeks. Instead of repeatedly shifting a heavy washing machine from one room to another, storing it temporarily creates a safer and more efficient work environment. Contractors have more room to complete their work, while homeowners avoid exposing expensive appliances to drywall dust, paint splatter, construction debris, or accidental impacts.

Extra storage space can also simplify larger home organization projects. If you're remodeling multiple rooms, decluttering before selling your home, or creating space for new furniture, having a secure location for oversized appliances allows you to work through each project at a comfortable pace without overcrowding your living areas. For homeowners in Mount Airy, this flexibility is especially valuable because it leaves more time to enjoy everything the community has to offer. After a productive day of packing or remodeling, many residents enjoy strolling through the historic downtown district, visiting the Andy Griffith Museum, or exploring nearby trails and scenic overlooks at Pilot Mountain State Park. These attractions are part of what makes the area such an enjoyable place to live while balancing the responsibilities of homeownership. Outdoor enthusiasts can also discover hiking trails, picnic areas, and recreational opportunities through North Carolina State Parks. Both resources offer useful information about enjoying the area without relying on weather-related resources.

A Little Preparation Today Helps Your Washer Last for Years

Taking the time to prepare a washing machine for storage may add an extra hour or two to moving day, but that investment often pays off many times over. Cleaning away detergent residue, removing every trace of moisture, securing loose components, transporting the appliance carefully, and storing it upright all work together to protect one of the most important appliances in your home. Rather than worrying about mold, unpleasant odors, or unexpected repairs, you can have confidence that your washer will be ready when you need it again.

Equally important, a well-organized storage unit makes every visit easier. Leaving adequate walking space, arranging belongings thoughtfully, and protecting large appliances from unnecessary pressure create a safer environment for all of your possessions. These simple habits help reduce stress during renovations, moves, and long-term storage alike. For homeowners throughout Mount Airy who need a secure place for household appliances, furniture, and seasonal belongings, reliable storage options in Mount Airy, NC, provide the space needed to keep valuable items organized and well protected until it's time to bring them home again.

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When summer rolls around, it’s time to swap out snow boots for flip-flops, snowblowers for lawnmowers, and bulky jackets for breezy tees. But all that winter gear still needs a home, and cramming it into your garage or basement can quickly create chaos. That’s where seasonal storage solutions come in. In this post, we’ll walk you through what winter items you can store in the summer, how to store them properly, and why choosing a self storage unit can be a smart move. Here’s the Quick Version Bulky winter coats, boots, and snow gear can be packed away to instantly free up closet and garage space during warmer months Skis, snowboards, sleds, and ice skates last longer when they’re cleaned, dried, and stored in a protected environment instead of a humid garage Holiday decorations and artificial trees stay organized and easier to find next season when stored in labeled bins Vacuum-sealed bags and plastic containers help protect winter fabrics from dust, moisture, and pests while in storage Climate-controlled storage helps prevent heat and humidity damage to leather items, winter clothing, and sensitive seasonal equipment Why Store Winter Items During the Summer? Think about all the items you only use for a few months out of the year: snow shovels, coats, snowboards, decorations, and more. Keeping them out when they’re not needed takes up valuable space and creates unnecessary clutter. Here are a few great reasons to store your winter gear during the off-season: Free Up Garage or Closet Space: Make room for summer equipment like bikes, lawn tools, and patio furniture. Protect Expensive Gear: Avoid leaving valuable items in hot or damp spaces like basements or outdoor sheds, where they could become damaged. Stay Organized Year-Round: Keep your home neat and clutter-free by rotating seasonal gear in and out of storage. What Winter Items Can You Store in a Storage Unit? Not sure what to pack away? Here’s a handy list of winter items that are perfect for summer storage: Snow Blowers and Shovels: Heavy-duty snow removal equipment takes up a lot of space, and you won’t be using it for months. Clean it up, drain any fuel, and store it safely. Winter Sports Gear: Sleds, skis, snowboards, snowshoes, and even snowmobiles can be stored until next winter. Keep them off the garage floor and protected from the elements. Bulky Winter Clothing and Boots: Parkas, snow pants, boots, hats, gloves, these take up a lot of closet space. Store them in labeled bins or wardrobe boxes to keep them fresh. Holiday Decorations: From string lights to inflatable snowmen, your winter decor can be packed away neatly and protected. Snow Tires and Chains: Store your winter tires flat or on a tire rack to prevent warping. Keep chains coiled and dry in bins. Space Heaters and Blankets: When temperatures rise, space heaters and electric blankets aren’t needed. Store them safely until fall returns. Miscellaneous Seasonal Items: This might include insulated pet shelters, firewood holders, or winter vehicle accessories. If it’s not used in summer, it can go into storage! Tips for Storing Winter Items Safely Storing your winter gear isn’t just about tossing it in a unit, it’s about protecting it for next year, and following the best packing tips for your storage unit helps keep everything in great condition. Here are a few quick winter storage tips: Clean and Dry Everything First: Dirt and moisture can lead to rust, mildew, or odors. Always clean and dry items before packing them up. Use Sturdy Storage Bins: Plastic bins with lids are better than cardboard boxes for long-term storage and stacking. Label Clearly: You’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to find that one pair of snow boots. Use Wardrobe Boxes: Great for hanging bulky coats or specialty clothing. Store Tires Correctly: Keep tires out of direct sunlight and stack or hang them properly to preserve their shape. Store Smart This Summer Make your summer more spacious by storing your winter gear the smart way. If you’re freeing up room in your garage or keeping expensive equipment in great shape, choosing what size storage unit you need makes seasonal storage even easier. Rent online today or give us a call to find the right unit for you!

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When you’re decluttering, moving, or simply trying to make more space at home, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out what to keep and what to let go of. It’s easy to get attached to belongings, but when every item takes up valuable space, those decisions really matter. A storage unit can be a lifesaver for keeping the things you don’t currently need but still want to hold onto. But how do you know what belongs in storage and what should be donated or tossed? The Main Takeaways Seasonal decorations, furniture between moves, family keepsakes, and infrequently used items are usually worth storing long term Broken furniture, expired products, duplicate household items, and clothes you no longer wear are often better donated or discarded Storing only valuable or meaningful belongings helps keep your unit organized and prevents paying for unnecessary space Important documents, sentimental heirlooms, and fragile valuables may be safer at home or in climate-controlled storage Decluttering before renting a unit can reduce moving costs and make packing far less stressful Why It Matters to Be Selective Not everything deserves a spot in your storage unit. Choosing carefully not only helps you save money by using the right-sized unit, and knowing what size storage unit you need can make the process even easier. Storing thoughtfully means your unit won’t become a catch-all for clutter, you’ll know it’s full of items that truly matter. Being selective also helps you decide whether storage fits your situation right now or if another solution makes more sense . Items Worth Keeping in a Storage Unit Some things are simply too valuable, seasonal, or useful to get rid of. Here are categories of items that usually make sense to keep in storage: Seasonal Items: Holiday decorations, winter gear like skis and snow blowers, or summer items like patio furniture and camping equipment don’t need to take up space year-round. A storage unit is perfect for keeping them safe until you’re ready to use them again. Furniture Not in Use: Maybe you’re downsizing, redecorating, or saving a couch or dining set for a child’s first apartment. Storing furniture allows you to hold onto these bigger items without crowding your garage or basement, just be sure to follow the best packing tips for your storage unit to keep everything protected. Sentimental or Heirloom Pieces: Family photo albums, keepsakes, or heirloom furniture often carry value that isn’t about money, it’s about memories. A clean, secure storage unit gives you peace of mind knowing those irreplaceable items are protected. Hobby or Business Supplies: Whether it’s crafting materials, sports equipment, or extra inventory for a small business, storage units can help you stay organized while keeping your home clutter-free. Items Better Off Donated or Tossed Just as important as knowing what to keep is recognizing what doesn’t need to come with you. Here are things that are usually better donated or discarded: Clothes You Haven’t Worn in Years If you haven’t reached for it in a year or two, chances are you won’t again. Donating gently used clothing helps others while freeing up space for things you actually wear. Outdated Electronics That drawer of old cords, DVD players, or broken gadgets? Most of those items won’t ever be useful again. 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The Most Common Storage Unit Sizes (And What Fits Inside) Here’s a breakdown of the most popular storage unit sizes and what you can typically fit in each: 5x5 (25 sq. ft.) – “Hall Closet” Perfect for: A few boxes Seasonal items (holiday decorations, winter coats, etc.) Small furniture (end tables, lamps) Office supplies or small file cabinets This is ideal if you’re just looking to declutter or need a little extra space for personal items. 5x10 (50 sq. ft.) – “Walk-in Closet” Great for: Studio apartment or dorm room contents A mattress set, dresser, and several boxes Sporting gear, bikes, or tools This is a common choice for students or anyone downsizing for a short time. 10x10 (100 sq. ft.) – “Half a Garage” Fits: Contents of a 1-bedroom apartment Large appliances like a refrigerator or washer/dryer Furniture (couch, dining table, mattress sets) One of the most popular sizes, great for both short-term and long-term use. 10x15 (150 sq. ft.) – “Large Bedroom” Perfect for: 2–3 rooms worth of furniture Large appliances and boxes Business inventory or equipment Ideal for families in transition or small business owners needing extra inventory space. 10x20 (200 sq. ft.) – “Standard Garage” Fits: Contents of a 2–3 bedroom home A vehicle, or large equipment Furniture, outdoor gear, and more Moving homes or remodeling? This is your go-to. How Do You Know What Size You Need? Here are a few simple questions to ask yourself before you book: 1. What are you storing? Make a quick list of the large items first, like couches, mattresses, appliances, and shelving units. Then add in boxes, bins, or anything oddly shaped (like lamps or bikes). If you’re just storing clothing and decor, you can probably go smaller than you think. 2. Will you need to access your stuff often? If you plan to grab things regularly (like business inventory or seasonal decorations), go a little bigger. This gives you space to walk in, move around, and keep things organized. 3. Are your items fragile or bulky? Fragile items often need room to be packed and protected properly, using the best packing tips for your storage unit can help prevent damage. You’ll want to avoid stacking them or cramming them into tight spaces. The same goes for bulky furniture or equipment, measure and consider a size up if necessary. 4. Is this a short-term or long-term solution? For long-term storage, it’s better to leave a little extra room for air circulation and future items. If it’s short-term and you’re okay with packing things tightly, you can likely go smaller. Size matters, but so does timing. Storage works best when it’s rented with a clear purpose in mind. Pro Tip: Do a “Trial Run” at Home Try stacking your items in one room (or your garage) and measure the footprint. You might be surprised how much, or how little, space you actually need. If you're still unsure, our team at Guardian Storage is always happy to help. Avoid These Common Sizing Mistakes Don’t underestimate how many boxes you have. They add up fast! Avoid renting a unit that’s too small “just to save money.” You could end up having to rent a second unit or risk damaging your stuff from over-packing. Remember vertical space. Most units are at least 8 feet tall, which means you can stack, just make sure it’s safe to do so. Ready To Get Started? Choosing a storage unit size doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think about what you’re storing, how often you’ll need access, and whether you’ll be adding more in the future. When in doubt, it’s worth a quick chat with someone who knows the ropes. At Guardian Storage, we take pride in making your storage experience as easy and stress-free as possible at our storage units in Mount Airy, NC . Whether you're storing a few boxes or an entire household, our team is ready to help you find the perfect fit. Ready to get started? Visit our size guide or give us a call to speak with a friendly team member today. We’re always here when you need a little extra space.