How do you store artwork without stressing out? We get it — your art is personal. Maybe it’s a gallery-worthy piece you splurged on. Maybe it’s a moody lighthouse painting that’s been with you since uni. Or maybe it’s that chaotic-but-charming toddler masterpiece you still haven’t figured out how to frame. Whatever you hang on your walls, it deserves better than being stuffed behind a sofa when life gets in the way.
That’s the thing about art: it needs to move. Whether you’re deep in spring cleaning, navigating a renovation, or (heaven help you) fumigating the house, your pictures need a safe escape route. So, if you’re wondering how to store paintings in storage — without them getting warped, faded, or, worst of all, forgotten — here’s a better way to go about it.
Practical Art Storage Solutions to Keep Paintings Safe
Storing your paintings correctly is key to avoiding damage over time. Whether your pieces are painted in acrylics or watercolours, all artwork is vulnerable to environmental threats like sunlight, humidity, mould and insects. That’s why it’s worth investing in proper art storage solutions — whether you’re keeping them at home or using a professional facility.
Can You Store Art in a Safe?
If your artwork is on the smaller side, a climate-controlled safe could offer some protection. But only if it’s kept in a dry, stable environment. That rules out basements and attics, which often suffer from damp or temperature swings. The last thing you want is to open your safe post-renovation and find the canvas warped or mould creeping in.
Why Storage Units Are Ideal for Paintings
For anything larger or more delicate, a dedicated personal storage unit for paintings is the safer bet. Keeping your artwork at home can be risky — especially if your property has a history of damp or fluctuating conditions. Storage units, on the other hand, are climate-controlled, secure, and monitored 24/7. That’s why they’re one of the most trusted options for collectors and art lovers alike. If you’re looking into how to store artwork in a storage unit, a clean, dry, and secure space gives you far more peace of mind than tucking your art behind furniture or under beds.
How to Store Artwork in a Storage Unit Without Causing Damage
So, you’ve got the unit — now what? Knowing how to store paintings in one of our London storage units comes down to using the right techniques. Whether you’re storing original canvases or framed prints, the goal is the same: keep them upright, protected, and away from anything that might press, crack, or warp them. Here’s how to get it right:
Keep Your Paintings Upright and Protected
Flat storage might seem harmless, but it often leads to creased paper and warped frames. The best way to store paintings in a storage unit is to stand each piece upright, slightly angled, and cushioned with soft padding or foam. This reduces surface contact and keeps them off the floor, which is particularly important for long-term paintings storage.
This small adjustment makes a big difference — especially if you’re planning to keep them stored for months at a time.
Wrap with Care to Keep Pictures Safe
When it comes to how to keep pictures safe in storage, wrapping makes all the difference. Start with acid-free tissue paper to shield delicate surfaces from dust and discolouration. Then add a layer of bubble wrap (gently – don’t over-tighten), and if you can, slip the piece into a cardboard sleeve or fitted art box.
For unframed artwork, roll it carefully — paint side out — and store it in a hard protective tube. Whether you’re storing for a weekend or a year, this step keeps your art clean, cushioned and gallery ready.
Give Framed Pictures Breathing Room
One of the most overlooked tips in how to store framed pictures in a storage unit is also one of the simplest: don’t stack them. It’s tempting when space is tight, but even light pressure can crack glass, dent frames or warp canvas.
Instead, separate each piece with foam or cardboard spacers and store them vertically, never leaning too many against one another. Think of each artwork as a one-of-a-kind — because in most cases, it is. And if you’re aiming for the best way to store paintings in a storage unit, treating them like they’re irreplaceable is a good place to start.
Ready to Store Art Like a Pro?
Whether you’re prepping for a house move or protecting your collection between exhibitions, how to store art in a storage unit comes down to choosing the right space and packing with care. At Attic Self Storage, we take your collection seriously.
Need advice on how to keep pictures safe in storage? We can always support you, just get in touch.
Posted on 16th March 2017 by Sophie Bagnall | Last updated on 31st October 2025
