Self Storage Tips

Picking the right self storage facility is important. Find a storage facility that is conveniently located for you.  Once you have selected a storage facility, you then have to pack your storage unit correctly. Before you start packing your storage unit, take a look at our helpful storage tips:

Packing Boxes

• Keep boxes as close to the same size as possible, so they are easier to stack and fit together without wasted space. Choose boxes that close or have lids for the best protection and easier stacking.
•  Box up everything that you can. Anything left unboxed can get dusty or damaged.
• Group items by type, whether they are fragile, and by weight. Place heavier and sturdier items on bottom and boxes with fragile items on top.
• Pack boxes as full as possible to avoid having empty corners collapse. Use newspapers or bubble wrap to fill empty spaces.
• Make a list of all items in each box and label the box clearly. Keep the inventory list for easy reference.
• For wrapping breakables, paper is OK, but bubble wrap can be used over again, its also cleaner, and because it is transparent, makes identifying contents easier. Wrap each item individually and store in specially-designed boxes with dividers. Put a layer of padding on top and bottom. Stand bowls, cups and plates on end. Label boxes as "breakable", and stack these on top.
• Pack several small appliances or several pots and pans in one box with packing material between them.
• Pack books flat to prevent damage to the spines. Place in small boxes so are not too heavy to lift.

Packing The Storage Unit

• Make sure the floor is clean of dust and dirt. Consider putting down protective canvas, sheeting or wooden boards.
• When packing your storage unit, leave a center aisle for access to all items with frequently used items near the front.
•  Items you will want to access most frequently should be placed in the front of the unit.

Furniture

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  • Remove legs and wrap with furniture pads to protect them from dirt and scratches.
  • Disassemble bed frames and tie them together to save space.
  • Label all pieces for easy re-assembly.
  • Keep all hardware in marked bags.
  • Stack chairs on top of each other to conserve space.
  • Use drawers in furniture to store small or fragile items.
  • Avoid plastic covers in non-climate storage, as moisture can condense under plastic.
  • Wrap mattresses in mattress bags or cover with paper or cloth.
  • Stand mattresses on cardboard or wood slats.
  • Place blankets or towels between stacked furniture to prevent scratching.

Electronics

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  • Place electronics out of sight, away from the door and away from easy viewing when the unit is open.
  • Use original boxes whenever possible for best possible protection.
  • Store electronics such as television sets and computers on top of something.  Never store electronics on the bare concrete floor.

Pictures, Mirrors & Lamps

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  • Wrap small pictures in foam or bubble wrap and stand them on end, in boxes. Store larger pictures in picture boxes.
  • Keep photographs from curling by placing them between two pieces of cardboard and taping them together.
  • Consider heated storage for delicate photographs or valuable artwork.
  • Remove lampshades from bases and wrap for protection.

Clothing, Curtains, Drapes, Linens

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  • Store clothing, curtains and drapes in wardrobe boxes on plastic hangers.
  • Use dresser drawers to store delicate items.
  • Store delicate wool with cedar chips to prevent damage.
  • Use vacuum sealed bags for clothing to conserve space.

Appliances

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  • Clean and dry appliances. Keep refrigerator doors ajar to prevent mold from forming.
  • Tape up hoses and cords on washing machines and dryers before storing.
  • Use the space inside appliances for such things as blankets and towels.
  • For vacuums, make sure you put in a clean bag or clean out the canister. 

Tools and Metal Objects

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  • Tools should be wiped with machine oil to avoid rust. Keep these away from other items.
  • Consider putting odd shaped tools inside empty garbage cans for protection.
  • Drain any fluids prior to storing snow blowers or lawnmowers.
  • Do not store hazardous or combustible materials.