How to Store Pots and Pans

The best way to store pots and pans at Public Storage is to clean and dry them completely, wrap each piece with soft padding, and pack them snugly in sturdy boxes so they stay organized and dent-free. It’s easier than you think—just a few simple steps can keep your cookware looking kitchen-ready.

Clean Before You Pack

Before you even think about bubble wrap, start by giving everything a good clean.

• Stainless steel and nonstick pans: Use mild dish soap and a soft sponge. Skip the dishwasher if your nonstick cookware isn’t labeled dishwasher-safe.

• Cast iron: Wipe out crumbs and grease, give it a light rinse, and dry it completely. Then rub a thin layer of oil on it to keep it seasoned and rust-free.

• Copper: Gently clean using a copper-safe solution or a homemade mix of lemon juice and baking soda.

• Enamel cookware: Avoid abrasive cleaners. Warm, soapy water and a sponge should do the trick.

Once cleaned, make sure each piece is bone dry. Moisture left behind can lead to rust or dull spots that make your next cooking session less than shiny.

Can You Stack Pots and Pans for Storage?

You can, but do it smartly. Slip a dish towel, felt pad, or even a coffee filter between each pan to prevent scratches. Lids love their own space—store them separately or tuck them into a shallow box so they don’t chip or clatter. If your cookware has detachable handles, stash them inside a larger pot to keep everything together.

Pack Smart

Now for the fun part: wrapping them up like kitchen gifts. Wrap each pan or lid in packing paper or bubble wrap, then nest them gently inside a sturdy box. Skip newspaper because it can leave ink smudges. Eco-friendly fans can use old T-shirts or dish towels for padding instead. Fill gaps so nothing shifts around, but don’t overpack—heavy cookware can burst boxes faster than you’d expect.

Know Your Materials

Not every pan is created equal.

• Cast iron: Don’t seal them in plastic; let them breathe.

• Nonstick: Avoid stacking heavy items on top to preserve the coating.

• Copper: Wrap them in soft cloth to prevent tarnish.

• Stainless steel: These are generally low maintenance, as long as you avoid moisture buildup.

Organize Your Storage Unit

Once you’re ready to store your cookware in your storage unit, place boxes at waist height or higher on shelves so heavier pots don’t crush lighter ones. Label clearly with something like “Kitchen: Pots & Pans” and keep a quick list of what’s inside. That way, when it’s time to unpack, you’ll find what you need without digging through mystery boxes.

Taking a few minutes to clean, wrap, and organize your cookware makes storing it simple and satisfying.

Features and amenities vary by location, facility, and unit. “Climate-controlled” and related terms (such as air-conditioned, heated, or humidistat-equipped) describe storage spaces designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels compared to non-climate-controlled units. Public Storage does not guarantee temperature or humidity ranges. Availability, features, and unit types may differ by location, facility, and unit. Please confirm with your facility whether specific climate-controlled features are available on units at that location.