How to Store Gaming Consoles and Accessories
Sep 4, 2026 / Public Storage
To store a gaming console, back up important data, eject discs or cartridges, power the system down completely and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pack the console and each accessory separately using electronics-safe materials, then place the box upright on a stable, raised surface.
These steps can help limit dust, tangled cords, misplaced accessories and pressure on controls while your gaming equipment is packed away.
How Should You Prepare a Console for Storage?
Before disconnecting the system:
- Sync or back up game saves and other permitted data.
- Confirm that the backup is accessible.
- Remove discs, cartridges and external drives.
- Shut the console down completely instead of leaving it in rest mode.
- Unplug the power, display and accessory cables.
- Allow the console to cool.
- Photograph the connected setup.
- Label the console, cords and accessories.
- Review the manufacturer’s storage instructions.
Do not place passwords, recovery codes, payment information or other sensitive account details inside the storage box.
How Do You Clean a Gaming Console?
Use a clean microfiber cloth to remove dust from the exterior. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for vents, ports, fans and removable covers.
Do not spray water or cleaning solution directly onto the console. A slightly damp cloth may be suitable for certain exterior surfaces when the manufacturer allows it, but the console must be dry before packing.
Use compressed air only if the manufacturer recommends it. Improper use may push debris farther into the system or affect internal components.
Do not open the console housing unless the model is designed for user access and the instructions explain how to do it.
How Should Different Gaming Equipment Be Packed?
| Item | Packing method |
|---|---|
| Home console | Use fitted inserts or electronics-safe cushioning |
| Handheld console | Power down and cushion the screen and controls |
| Controller | Wrap separately without pressure on sticks or triggers |
| Cords | Coil loosely and label by device or port |
| Game discs | Store upright inside their cases |
| Game cartridges | Keep in fitted cases or holders |
| Headset | Support the headband and avoid bending the cable |
| External drive | Disconnect properly and pack in an anti-static container |
| VR headset | Cover the lenses and cushion the headset and controllers |
What Is the Best Way to Pack a Gaming Console?
The original box and fitted inserts may provide a useful packing setup when they are clean and intact. Otherwise, choose a sturdy box or plastic bin large enough to hold the console without forcing it.
Wrap the console in clean packing paper, a soft cloth or packaging designed for electronics. If using bubble wrap, select an anti-static product intended for electronic equipment.
Fill empty space to limit movement without pressing material into vents, ports or disc openings. Store the console in the position recommended by its manufacturer.
Do not stack multiple unwrapped consoles together.
How Should You Pack a Handheld Console?
Turn the handheld system off completely and remove any game cartridge or memory card when directed. Clean the screen with a manufacturer-approved cloth and place the original cover over the display when available.
Wrap the console without placing pressure on:
- Control sticks
- Buttons
- Triggers
- Screen
- Charging port
- Detachable controllers
If the system has detachable controllers, remove them only as directed and wrap each component separately.
Follow the manufacturer’s battery guidance before extended storage.
How Should You Store Controllers?
Clean controllers according to their instructions and allow them to dry. Wrap each controller separately so analog sticks, directional pads and triggers do not bear weight.
Remove disposable batteries before extended storage. For rechargeable controllers, follow the manufacturer’s recommended charge level and charging schedule.
Do not store a controller or battery that is swollen, leaking, damaged or subject to a recall. Confirm the facility’s policies before storing battery-powered devices.
How Should You Organize Gaming Cords?
Take a photograph of the connected setup before unplugging anything. Label each cord by console and function, such as:
- Power
- HDMI or display
- Charging
- Controller
- Network
- Headset
- External storage
Coil cables loosely along their natural curves and fasten them with reusable straps. Avoid tight knots, sharp bends and tightly wrapping cords around the console.
Place cables in a labeled bag or compartment inside the same box.
How Should You Store Physical Games?
Game Discs
Return each disc to its original case or another case designed for optical media. Store cases upright like books and avoid touching the data surface.
Do not stack loose discs or store them inside the console.
Game Cartridges
Place cartridges in fitted cases or holders. Avoid storing them loose with cords, controllers or metal accessories.
Collector’s Editions
Remove batteries from permitted accessories when directed and pack components separately. Do not store editions, memorabilia or other gaming items that cannot be replaced or that exceed applicable stored-value limits.
How Should You Pack Headsets and VR Equipment?
Wrap a gaming headset so the headband maintains its natural shape. Coil removable cables loosely and keep heavy items away from the ear cups and microphone.
For VR equipment:
- Power down the headset.
- Cover the lenses with the original lens cover.
- Keep lenses away from prolonged direct sunlight.
- Wrap controllers separately.
- Follow the manufacturer’s battery instructions.
- Avoid placing pressure on straps, sensors or tracking components.
Do not use abrasive materials on lenses or screens.
Should You Add Silica-Gel Packets?
A contained silica-gel packet may be placed inside the outer box when used according to its instructions. Keep it away from open ports and prevent direct contact with the console.
Moisture absorbers do not replace cleaning, drying or appropriate storage conditions. Do not pour loose drying products into the box.
Where Should You Place Consoles in a Storage Unit?
Place console boxes upright on stable shelving or a raised platform. Keep them away from the unit door, unstable stacks and belongings that could leak.
When organizing:
- Keep electronics off the floor when practical.
- Avoid placing heavy boxes on top.
- Maintain the manufacturer’s recommended orientation.
- Keep games and accessories near the matching console.
- Store cords loosely rather than under pressure.
- Label boxes without listing sensitive account information.
- Maintain a private digital inventory.
Do not connect, charge, test or operate gaming equipment inside a storage unit. Public Storage spaces are intended for storage only.
Should You Choose Climate-Controlled Storage?
Climate-controlled storage may be worth considering for gaming consoles and electronic accessories or when the manufacturer recommends more consistent conditions.
These units are designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels than standard storage spaces. They do not guarantee that electronics will remain free from corrosion, condensation or other changes.
Cleaning, cooling and packing the equipment correctly remain important. Learn more about climate-controlled storage.
What Should You Check During Extended Storage?
Inspect the outer box and surrounding area periodically. Look for:
- Moisture or condensation
- Crushed or shifted packaging
- Battery changes
- Pest activity
- Pressure on controls or screens
- Damage to cords or plugs
Follow the manufacturer’s battery-maintenance schedule when applicable. Remove the equipment from the unit before charging or testing it.
What Should You Do Before Powering Up a Stored Console?
After retrieving the console:
- Allow the closed box to adjust gradually to room conditions.
- Unpack the console and accessories.
- Inspect the power cord, ports and housing.
- Check batteries for changes or damage.
- Reconnect components according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place the console where its vents have proper clearance.
- Power it on in an appropriate indoor setting.
- Install available system updates when needed.
Do not power on equipment when condensation is visible or components appear damaged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you remove discs before storing a console?
Yes. Eject discs and cartridges before shutting down and packing the console. Store physical games in suitable cases.
Can you use compressed air to clean a gaming console?
Only when the manufacturer recommends it. Follow the specified distance, angle and procedure rather than blowing air directly into every opening.
Can gaming consoles be stored in plastic bins?
Yes, if the bin is clean, dry and large enough for suitable cushioning. Make sure the console is cool and dry before closing the lid.
Should you remove controller batteries?
Remove disposable batteries before extended storage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for built-in or rechargeable batteries.
Can you wrap a console in regular bubble wrap?
Electronics-safe anti-static bubble wrap is preferable. Place a clean cloth or suitable packing paper between the console and other cushioning when directed.
How should game discs be stored?
Keep discs upright in their cases. Avoid loose stacks, direct pressure and storage inside the console.
Should you factory-reset a console before storage?
A factory reset is generally unnecessary when you plan to use the console again. Back up important data and follow the manufacturer’s account guidance.
Can you store several gaming systems together?
Yes, provided each console is wrapped separately and the total stored property remains within the permitted value limit. Do not store irreplaceable data or belongings. Review Public Storage policies before moving in.
What size storage unit do you need for gaming equipment?
Several console boxes may fit in a small unit with other permitted household items. Estimate the dimensions of the complete setup and compare options using the Public Storage Size Guide.
Backed-up data, labeled cords and individually packed equipment will make restoring your gaming setup easier. Find Public Storage near you and compare available unit sizes and features.
Features and amenities vary by location, facility and unit. “Climate-controlled” and related terms describe storage spaces designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels compared with non-climate-controlled units. Public Storage does not guarantee temperature or humidity ranges. Confirm which features are available before renting.
