Storing your TV? Whether it’s short-term or long-term, it’s essential to take the proper steps to keep your TV in top condition and protect it from damage. Here are the best tips for storing a TV safely!
Clean the TV Screen
Similar to packing artwork for storage, you’ll want to clean your TV to prevent dust from building up. Flat-screen TVs, like OLED and LCD TV, have sensitive screens, so it’s best to use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe dust and grime off the screen. For tougher debris, dampen the cloth with screen cleaner or distilled water. It’s best to avoid window cleaners or alcohol-based cleaners, as they are likely too harsh—and don’t spray liquids directly onto your TV screen, as dripping fluid could leak into the housing and damage the internal components.
Document & Take Down Your TV Setup
Take a picture of how the cords are currently arranged on the back of the TV to make reassembly easier. Then, pack all the cords and accessories like remotes in a labeled plastic bag, and tape it to the back of the TV or box to keep them close at hand. Making sure the components don’t get lost will make moving with a TV easier and less stressful.
Wrap the TV Screen
Use a foam TV screen protector, moving blankets, or bubble wrap to completely wrap the TV and protect the screen from scratches when moving it into storage. Secure your wrapping with moving tape—but be careful not to let the tape stick to the screen itself.
Pack the TV
If possible, pack your TV in its original box with the foam corner protectors. If you don’t have the original box, you can purchase a TV moving box with foam corner protectors. For a cheaper option, you can place your TV in an oversized box, then fill the empty space with packing materials like foam, bubble wrap, towels, or blankets.
Consider the Length of Storage
The length of time you plan to store your TV will determine the best storage solution. If you’re only storing your TV for a short period, such as during home renovations, store it covered in a clean, dry space to keep it safe. Clear a path to and from the TV for easier retrieval if it’s being stored with other items. For long-term TV storage, you may want to keep it in a storage unit so it doesn’t take up too much space in your house—just make sure the TV is properly padded and covered to prevent dust from settling in the box.
Store in a Stable Environment
Renting climate-controlled storage is one of the best solutions for storing temperature-sensitive TVs, especially in areas with extreme temperatures or if storage will be long-term. By using climate control, you can help protect your TV’s internal electrical components from humidity or frost, which are hallmarks of basement, attic, and garage storage—if you do need to store your TV in one of these places, take the proper precautions to ensure a dry environment with consistent, moderate temperatures.
Store in an Upright Position
Always store your TV upright to prevent placing stress on the screen—you can even turn a wrapped TV with the screen side facing a wall to further protect it. Brace the TV box with a strap or another large item to prevent the box from tipping over. If possible, you should also store the TV off the floor, such as on a shelving unit, pallet, or plastic tarp so it won’t be as exposed to potential damage from things like water leaks, floods, and pests.
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