Storage Tips & Tricks
To maximize space and improve movability inside of your storage unit - we would recommend the following tips to improve your storage experience.
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Stack
Make use of the vertical space by stacking boxes or items. Our mini units have 8-to-11-foot ceilings, depending on the facility and unit - so make use of it! But be sure that any stacking is supported by a strong base.
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Use Wooden Pallets
We would recommend elevating boxes and items off the floor to encourage air flow around your items and to discourage any possible condensation that can happen with sudden temperature shifts.
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Use Plastic Bins - Not Cardboard
As an organic material, cardboard is not the best option for long-term storage. Instead, we would recommend investing in some plastic bins. In addition, making sure that all your bins are the same size can be helpful with stacking and organizing.
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Make a Walkway
To ensure you can maneuver around once the unit is fully packed, we would suggest leaving walkways between items for ease of locating and removing things.
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Clean Your Items Being Stored
Be sure to clean any item you are storing in the unit. You want to make sure there is no dirt, crumbs, or moisture - as that could lead to problems down the road. Make sure everything is dry before packing it away.
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Wrap & Don't Stack Fragile Items
Take care with fragile items by wrapping them and not stacking them once packed in boxes. Don't wrap in newspaper, as it could result in ink stains.
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Put High Touch Items in Front
Chances are that there are items or boxes you might need more often than others, so be sure to keep those situated towards the front - with items you need less often towards the back.
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Break Out the Labeler
Label everything - we suggest it on multiple sides of the boxes to be sure you know exactly what is in each box without breaking them open.
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Vacuum Sealing is Your Friend
Maximize your storage potential by vacuum sealing items like clothing or fabrics.
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Disassemble Furniture
To save space, disassemble your larger furniture. Be sure to tape a labeled bag with any screws or hardware to the disassembled furniture.
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Invest in Movable Shelving
You can always use portable shelving to improve the stackability in your unit and elevate boxes off the floor for more air flow.
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Don't Cover with Plastic Wrap
If you're looking to cover your furniture or mattress, purchase a specific cover or use a sheet that is breathable. Plastic wrap could encourage moisture or condensation over time.
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Keep Mattresses Vertical
Don't keep a mattress horizontal on the floor of the unit - as this could cause moisture to accumulate.
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Keep Garbage Bags Out
Garbage bags can tear easily and could trap moisture.
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Keep Food or Hazards Out
Bringing in food or hazardous materials isn't only bad for the health of your items, but it also is against your lease. Please help us keep yours and others items safe by following this policy!
By utilizing these storage tips and tricks, your unit can be more organized and usable!
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Another tip: if you want a higher degree of temperature and humidity control, consider renting a climate controlled storage unit instead. If storing in a non-climate controlled unit, it is like storing something in an unheated garage and the temperature and humidity can fluctuate with the weather.