Covering furniture with plastic is a common method for protecting pieces during moves, storage, or painting projects. While the exact technique can vary depending on the furniture shape and the type of plastic used, the goal is to ensure complete coverage efficiently. As demonstrated in one approach, applying plastic can be a *speedy and efficient* task, resulting in the furniture being *all covered* with *plenty on each side* for secure protection.
## Why Cover Furniture with Plastic?
Using plastic covers offers several benefits:
* **Dust Protection:** Keeps dust and dirt off surfaces, especially during storage or renovations.
* **Scratch and Scuff Prevention:** Provides a barrier against minor impacts during handling or moving.
* **Moisture Resistance:** Helps protect against spills or humidity.
* **Paint Protection:** Essential for keeping furniture safe from paint drips or splatters.
## Materials Needed
To cover your furniture effectively with plastic, you will typically need:
* **Plastic Sheeting or Drop Cloths:** Available in various thicknesses and sizes. Thicker plastic offers more durability.
* **Packaging Tape or Stretch Wrap:** To secure the plastic around the furniture.
* **Scissors or Utility Knife:** For cutting the plastic to size if necessary.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Covering Furniture
Follow these general steps to cover your furniture:
1. **Prepare the Furniture:** Clear any items off the furniture and remove cushions if possible for easier handling. If covering for painting, ensure the furniture is slightly away from walls.
2. **Unfold the Plastic:** Lay out your plastic sheet or drop cloth. For larger pieces like sofas or beds, you may need oversized sheets or multiple pieces.
3. **Drape the Plastic:** Begin draping the plastic over the largest or most critical surface of the furniture, such as the top of a table or the seat of a sofa. Smooth it out as you go.
4. **Ensure Full Coverage:** Work your way around the furniture, pulling the plastic to ensure it is *all covered*. Make sure there are no significant gaps where dust or paint could reach the surface.
5. **Allow for Overlap:** Crucially, *make sure you've got plenty on each side*. This excess plastic allows you to wrap around edges and provides material for securing the cover.
6. **Secure the Plastic:** Use packaging tape or stretch wrap to hold the plastic in place. Wrap tape tightly around legs, arms, or base to prevent the cover from slipping off. Stretch wrap is particularly effective for tightly binding the plastic around irregular shapes. Securing properly helps maintain the integrity of the cover throughout the intended protection period.
### Tips for a Speedy and Efficient Process
To make the task quicker and more effective:
* Use generously sized plastic sheets to minimize the need for taping multiple pieces together.
* Have your tape pre-cut or easily accessible.
* Work with a partner, especially for large or awkward furniture pieces.
* For long-term storage, consider using shrink wrap specifically designed for furniture for a tighter, more durable seal.
By following these steps, you can effectively protect your furniture using plastic covers, ensuring it remains *all covered* with *plenty on each side* for optimal protection, turning a potentially tedious task into a *speedy and efficient* one.
