If you’re going to rent a storage place, you need to make sure that your things are safe, secure, and easy to get to when you need them. If you follow the right steps, you can save time and money while storing seasonal things, moving between homes, or just getting rid of clutter. Ready to store your things in a unit? Follow these steps to keep them safe and make the most of the room.
- Sort and Purge Unwanted Items
Before packing your belongings, take the time to go through everything and determine what you actually want to keep. Often, storage units end up becoming a dumping ground for things you might not need. By sorting through your items and getting rid of those you no longer use or need, you can save money on a smaller storage unit and reduce clutter in your life. Consider donating, recycling, or selling things that are still in good condition.
- Clean and Dry Everything
Before putting things away, make sure they are all clean and dry. Storing dirty or damp items can lead to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. Wipe down furniture, appliances, and boxes to remove dust, dirt, and grease. If you’re storing clothes or linens, wash them first to prevent stains or pests from infesting your items. Make sure anything that could potentially leak, like appliances or containers, is sealed or emptied.
- Disassemble Large Furniture
For big pieces of furniture like beds, tables, and bookcases, it’s best to take them apart as much as possible. This will help you save room in your storage unit and keep fragile items from getting broken. Labeled plastic bags should hold all of your screws, bolts, and other tools so it’s easy to put things back together later. Taking the time to properly take apart your furniture will keep it in better shape and make it easier to store.
- Use the Right Packing Materials
Packing your items correctly is crucial to avoid damage while in storage. Use sturdy boxes for your smaller items, and make sure they are packed tightly to avoid shifting. For larger or fragile items, consider wrapping them in bubble wrap or packing peanuts. When moving, furniture should be wrapped in moving blankets or shrink wrap to keep the surfaces from getting scratched or dirty. Remember that cardboard boxes are useful, but they can break down over time, especially if they get wet. For long-term keeping, plastic bins may be a better choice.
- Label Everything Clearly
Labeling your boxes is one of the most important things you can do when preparing items for storage. Be specific with your labels, so you know exactly what’s inside each box without having to open it. For instance, don’t just write “kitchen” on a box; write “kitchen utensils” or “dishes” instead. This will save you time and frustration when you need to access specific items. For added convenience, number your boxes and keep a list of their contents in a notebook or on your phone for easy reference.
- Choose the Right Storage Unit
Size does matter when picking out the right storage unit. If you hire a unit, don’t make it too big. But also, don’t put too much in a unit that’s too small. Figure out how much space your items take up and choose a unit that fits that. Scottsdale Storage and many other storage facilities offer size guides or staff to help you choose the best space for your needs if you’re not sure what size you need. Also, think about whether you need climate-controlled storage to keep fragile things like electronics, artwork, or papers safe from extreme temperatures.
- Pack Smart for Easy Access
When storing your items, think about the order in which you’ll need them. Place frequently used items near the front of the unit, while less essential items should be placed towards the back. This way, you won’t have to dig through boxes to find something you need right away. When stacking big things like chairs, be careful not to put heavy things on top of light ones. Setting up your storage room with a little more work can save you time and energy in the long run.
- Leave Some Space to Move Around
Don’t pack your storage unit to the brim. Leaving a small aisle or pathway in the unit allows you to access your items more easily and prevents you from having to move everything around just to retrieve one box. It’s also important to leave a bit of space between the walls of the unit and your belongings to allow air to circulate and reduce the risk of moisture buildup.
Conclusion
Properly preparing your items for storage ensures that they remain safe, organized, and easily accessible. Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or simply storing seasonal items, following these steps will make the process more efficient. Remember to select the right storage unit, use appropriate packing materials, and label everything clearly. Scottsdale Storage can help you find a safe place to store your things. They have a range of unit sizes and features to fit your needs, so your things will be safe and easy to get to whenever you need them.
