How to Store Clocks
Sep 8, 2026 / Public Storage
Storing clocks starts with cleaning each piece, removing batteries, wrapping detachable parts separately, and packing the clock in a cushioned box. For eligible household clocks, choose a clean, dry storage location where boxes can remain upright and are not crowded by heavier items.
Clock designs vary, from wall clocks and mantel clocks to digital and cuckoo clocks. Check the manufacturer’s guidance when available, especially for clocks with pendulums, weights, chains, glass, or electrical components.
Key Takeaways
- Clean clocks gently and remove batteries before packing them away.
- Wrap clocks individually with soft packing paper or cloth, then fill open box space with cushioning material.
- Remove detachable parts, such as pendulums, weights, chains, and cords, and pack them in labeled containers.
- Store wall clocks upright to help avoid pressure on glass faces and frames.
- Label each box by room, clock type, and upright position to make unpacking easier.
What Is the Best Way to Store Clocks?
The best way to store clocks is to remove batteries and detachable parts, wrap each clock separately, and pack it upright in a sturdy, labeled box. Use cushioning around the clock’s face, corners, and moving parts so it does not shift during transport or storage.
Clock Storage Ideas at a Glance
| Clock Type | Packing Approach | Helpful Tip |
| Wall clock | Wrap individually and store upright in a padded box | Add cushioning around the glass face and frame. |
| Mantel clock | Wrap the casing and place it in a snug, cushioned box | Keep the box on a flat, stable surface. |
| Cuckoo clock | Remove detachable weights, pendulums, and chains when applicable | Place detached parts in a labeled container with the clock. |
| Digital clock | Remove batteries and unplug detachable cords | Coil cords loosely and keep them with the clock. |
| Alarm clock | Remove batteries and wrap the clock separately | Use a small box that limits empty space around the clock. |
Clean and Prepare Clocks Before Storage
Start by removing visible dust from the clock’s exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive materials, especially on glass faces, painted surfaces, wood finishes, or decorative details.
For battery-powered clocks, remove the batteries before packing. For plug-in models, unplug the cord and coil it loosely. Place cords and removable accessories in a labeled bag or small container.
Clock Storage Preparation Checklist
- Dust the clock with a soft, dry cloth.
- Remove batteries from battery-powered clocks.
- Unplug electrical clocks and coil cords loosely.
- Remove detachable pendulums, weights, chains, or other approved components.
- Place small parts in a labeled bag or container.
- Check the manufacturer’s guidance for model-specific storage instructions.
- Take a photo of the clock and its accessories before packing, if helpful for reassembly.
Wrap and Pack Clocks With Cushioning
Wrap each clock individually with soft packing paper, unprinted paper, or clean cloth. Add extra cushioning around glass faces, corners, handles, and raised details.
Choose a box that fits the clock without forcing it into a tight space. Line the bottom of the box with cushioning, place the wrapped clock inside, and fill open areas with soft packing material so it stays in place.
Avoid packing multiple clocks in the same box unless each one has separate cushioning and enough room to avoid contact.
How to Pack a Clock for Storage
| Packing Step | What to Do | Why It Helps |
| Line the box | Add soft packing paper or cushioning to the bottom | Creates a padded base for the clock. |
| Wrap the clock | Cover the face, sides, corners, and raised details | Helps limit contact with the box and other items. |
| Pack detachable parts | Use a labeled bag or small box | Keeps pendulums, chains, cords, or weights together. |
| Fill open space | Add packing paper around the wrapped clock | Helps reduce shifting inside the box. |
| Label the box | Note the room, clock type, and upright position | Makes unpacking and handling easier. |
Store Different Types of Clocks
Different clock styles may have different packing needs. Use the owner’s manual or manufacturer guidance when available, particularly for clocks with mechanical components.
Storing Wall Clocks
Store wall clocks upright in a padded box. Add cushioning around the glass face and frame, and avoid placing other boxes on top of the packed clock.
Storing Mantel Clocks
Wrap mantel clocks individually and place them in a sturdy box with padding on all sides. Keep the box flat and away from areas where it may be bumped during storage.
Storing Cuckoo Clocks
Cuckoo clocks may include detachable pendulums, weights, chains, and other moving components. Remove parts only as described in the manufacturer’s guidance, then place them in labeled containers with the related clock.
Storing Digital Clocks
Remove batteries, unplug cords, and pack the clock in a dry, cushioned container. Keep cords and power adapters with the clock so they are easier to find later.
Choose a Storage Location for Clocks
Store packed clocks in a clean, dry location where boxes can remain upright and away from heavy items. At home, a closet shelf or interior storage area may work for clocks you plan to display again soon.
For eligible household clocks that you are putting away for a move, room refresh, or seasonal décor rotation, climate-controlled storage may be an option. Climate-controlled storage units provide a more consistent indoor temperature than standard storage units. More than 90% of Public Storage properties offer climate-controlled units, though availability, features, and unit sizes vary by location.
Public Storage can be an option for eligible household clocks and seasonal décor that are clean, dry, and packed in suitable containers. Review your rental agreement and local facility guidelines before storing items.
Keep Clock Boxes Organized
Clear labels can make it easier to find clocks when you are ready to decorate, move, or revamp a room. Label each box on more than one side with a broad description, such as:
- Kitchen wall clock
- Living room mantel clock
- Bedroom alarm clock
- Holiday décor clock
- Clock accessories and cords
Store lighter clock boxes on top of heavier boxes and leave an access path if you expect to retrieve items during storage.
FAQs About Storing Clocks
How should I pack a wall clock for storage?
Wrap the wall clock individually, add cushioning around the glass face and frame, and place it upright in a sturdy box. Fill open spaces with packing paper so the clock does not shift.
Should I remove batteries from clocks before storage?
Yes. Remove batteries from battery-powered clocks before storage. This can help you avoid finding old batteries in the clock when you unpack it later.
How do I store a cuckoo clock?
Check the manufacturer’s guidance first. If the clock has detachable pendulums, weights, or chains, pack those parts separately in labeled containers with the clock.
Can I store clocks in a storage unit?
A storage unit may be an option for eligible household clocks that are clean, dry, and packed in suitable containers. Review your rental agreement and local facility guidelines before storing items.
Is climate-controlled storage useful for clocks?
Climate-controlled storage provides a more consistent indoor temperature than standard storage units. It may be useful for eligible household clocks when you prefer an indoor storage setting. Features and availability vary by location.
Storing clocks is easier when each piece is cleaned, cushioned, labeled, and packed with its related parts. With a clear packing system and a suitable storage location, household clocks can stay organized until you are ready to display them again.
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 with 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. Confirm with your facility whether specific climate-controlled features are available on units at that location.
