In 2018, over 68 million square feet in the United States consisted of self-storage units.
Storage units are becoming more popular as people continue to purchase items that they aren’t able to store at home.
If you are looking for a storage unit, or just want to make the most out of the one you already have, there are several tips to follow.
Scroll down to learn some of the best storage unit tips to help keep your belongings protected and safe!
1. Stay Organized
The most important tip for when you have a storage unit is to keep your items as organized as possible.
Using colored bins or labels can help you find belongings quick. This will also cut your time down rummaging through your old items just to find the Halloween decorations.
2. Get a Climate Controlled Unit
If you are storing pieces of furniture, woods, or other things that can be affected by extreme cold and heat, you will want to find a climate-controlled unit.
Having climate control can prevent mold and mildew from growing or spreading. It can also prevent cracks or damage to valuable furniture and belongings.
3. Keep Your Items off of the Ground
One of the best storage unit tips is to lift all of your belongings to promote airflow within your storage unit.
Lifting your items can prevent mold from growing. It is also a good idea for when areas get flooded. Large storms and snow melting in the spring can create a lot of water, and at times, it may get into your unit.
4. Use Airtight Containers
If you are wanting to store blankets, clothing, or any other fabric, you will want to put them in airtight containers.
These containers and bags will keep your clothes from smelling stale or moldy. It will also keep them safe from extreme temperatures and moisture.
5. Take Care of Your Books
Books are an item that often gets overlooked and damaged from not being stored properly.
Similar to clothing and materials, your books should be kept in airtight boxes or bags to prevent mold from growing. It is also a good idea to keep them safe in a box so that the pages and covers don’t get warped from the weather.
6. Protect Your Technology
If you are storing TV’s, old computers, or any other electronics in your storage unit, you will want to protect them with tarps and wraps.
Wrapping your items can prevent them from filling up with dust and getting scratched. Depending on how packed your unit is, you may have to stack things on top of each other and wraps will help keep them from getting damaged.
7. Rent the Right Size
Depending on what you want to store within your unit, you will need to consider the size of your space and how much you will fill it.
If you plan to store your boat, a vehicle, or another large item, you will want a big storage unit with a garage door. Also, keep in mind that you will need an even larger size if you want to store more than just your vehicle inside.
8. Use Your Space to Store Wine
Believe it or not, storing wine and alcohol is completely acceptable in a storage unit.
Some facilities may even offer units with built-in wine racks to keep organized. If this is what you plan to do, you may want to consider getting a climate-controlled unit. Just be sure to keep everything sealed to avoid pests!
9. Stack Smart
When putting items in your storage unit, the best thing to do is remove any arms or legs to furniture.
This will help make stacking easier and less awkward. If you got a temporary storage unit, you will want to make your items as easy to move as possible. This will also help you fully utilize the space you are paying for.
Getting shelves can also be helpful if you are storing smaller items and boxes.
10. Keep Your Cash in the Bank
If you were thinking about storing money in your unit or already do, you may want to think otherwise.
Most insurance policies for storage units don’t cover cash that was lost from disaster or insurance claims. It is best to keep your money stored safely in the banks.
Keeping cash in your storage unit is also not recommended because oftentimes, multiple people have a key to the unit within your family.
What Not to Put in a Storage Unit
Not all things are meant to be stored in a unit, and belong in the warmth and safety of your home.
Although many things can be put in a unit until they need to be used, some items should remain at home.
Flammable, combustible, and hazardous materials and items should not go inside of your unit. They could explode and damage other items within your storage unit.
You should also avoid putting any items or foods in your storage unit. They can attract pests and bugs that take over your belonging. Don’t put items in your unit that grow mold or mildew easily, especially if your unit is not temperature controlled.
Besides these items, the only other things that you should avoid putting in the unit are anything living. This includes plants, animals, and people.
Store More with These Storage Unit Tips
Utilizing the storage unit tips mentioned above can help ensure the safety and protection of all of your beloved belongings.
There are many things to consider when getting a storage unit and packing it. It is often a good idea to get a climate-controlled unit to prevent mold and extreme weather damage.
Don’t forget to keep your items off the ground and always stay organized.
Be sure to check out our blog for more articles on getting organized without spending a whole paycheck!