Space-Saving Ideas to Earn Back Square Footage
Are you thinking about renting a storage unit but unsure what to store? We all accumulate things over time that we don’t need immediately but might want later. Knowing what items are ideal for storage can help you maximize space and keep your home clutter-free.
Whether you’re moving, renovating, or just trying to create more space, using a storage unit can be a practical solution. From furniture to seasonal decorations, some items are perfect for storage. The View Storage in Amherstview, Ontario offers a variety of tips and tricks to help you organize your possessions efficiently.
1) Vintage Furniture
Storing vintage furniture can be a smart way to preserve its beauty and value. Before putting these pieces into a storage unit, make sure to clean them properly. Remove any dust and dirt to avoid damage.
Use soft fabric to wrap the furniture. Secure the fabric with tape, but ensure the tape does not touch the furniture surface directly. This helps prevent scratches and other damage.
Choose a storage unit with a steady temperature. Ideally, the temperature should be between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid units that experience extreme cold or heat, as these conditions can cause the wood to warp.
Position furniture off the ground. Pallets or boards can keep your items safe from potential water damage. Also, make sure to leave some space between pieces to allow air to circulate.
Visit the storage unit periodically to check on your furniture. This ensures you can address any potential problems quickly before they cause significant damage.
2) Seasonal Clothing
Storing seasonal clothing in a storage unit is a great way to free up space in your home. You can divide your clothes based on the season, like winter jackets, sweaters, and scarves for colder months, and light dresses, shorts, and swimsuits for warmer weather.
Before placing your clothes in storage, make sure to wash and dry them thoroughly. Clean clothes are less likely to develop mold or attract pests. Also, carefully fold or roll each item to maximize space and minimize wrinkles.
Using sturdy, stackable containers helps keep your clothes organized and easy to find. Try using clear plastic bins to quickly identify the contents without having to open each container. This makes the changing seasons much less stressful as you can easily access the stored clothes.
Remember to label each container with details about the contents inside. This simple step can make a big difference when you need to retrieve specific items. Adding labels like “summer clothes” or “winter jackets” can help you sort through your stored clothing more efficiently.
Keeping your seasonal clothing in a cool, dry place is also crucial. This helps maintain the condition of your clothes and prevents any unpleasant odors. By following these steps, you can ensure that your seasonal clothing stays in great shape while stored away.
3) Holiday Decorations
Holiday decorations take up a lot of space at home. Using a storage unit can free up that space.
Start by sorting and labeling your decorations. Group similar items together, like ornaments with ornaments. Use clear plastic containers to keep them safe from dust and moisture.
Wrap delicate items like ornaments in tissue paper. Store them in resealable bags. For string lights, wrap them around cardboard to avoid tangling.
Seasonal linens should be protected, so use plastic bags or shrink-wrap. Remember to keep candles away from heat.
Stacking boxes can be risky. Instead, use shelves to keep everything organized. Labeling your boxes will help you quickly find what you need.
A cool, dry place is ideal for storing holiday items. This keeps them in good condition for the next season.
Decorations often include large items like artificial trees. Consider shrink-wrapping these to save space.
Following these tips will keep your decorations in great shape and make decorating next year much easier.
4) Sporting Equipment
Sports equipment can really take up a lot of room at home. A storage unit is perfect for keeping your gear organized and safe when you’re not using it.
If you play team sports, you probably have a lot of gear. Bats, balls, gloves, helmets, and pads can all be stored easily. Using bins or shelving units helps keep everything in order.
For those who enjoy skiing or snowboarding, storage units can keep your equipment rust-free. Applying a thick layer of wax before storing helps protect the base of your skis or snowboard. Make any necessary repairs to prevent wood cores from rotting.
Soccer balls, basketballs, and other sports balls can be stored using bungee cord setups inside a square frame. This simple idea keeps them from rolling around and getting lost.
If you have a versatile shoe rack with compartments, it can hold not just your sports shoes, but also small equipment like gloves or baseballs.
Periodically check your stored items for any signs of wear or damage. This ensures they stay in good condition and are ready for the next season.
5) Old Records
Storing your old records in a storage unit is a smart choice when you need extra space at home. Vinyl records are sensitive to temperature and humidity. Keep them in a climate-controlled unit to avoid warping or damage. The ideal temperature for storage is between 65° to 70°F.
Always store your records in an upright position. Storing them flat or at an angle can cause warping due to uneven pressure. Use sturdy shelves or boxes designed for record storage.
Protect your records from dust by keeping them in sleeves and jackets. This helps maintain their condition and prevents scratches or dirt build-up. Regularly check on your records to ensure they stay in good shape.
When handling your records, avoid touching the playing surface. Hold them by the edges to prevent fingerprints or oils from damaging the grooves. This ensures better playback quality every time.
Using dedicated storage holders or crates can help organize your collection. These holders make it easy to find and access your favorite albums without having to dig through stacks. Plus, they add a cool, retro touch to your storage space.
Benefits of Using Storage Units
Storage units offer practical solutions for freeing up space in your home and keeping your belongings safe. You can enjoy many perks by renting a storage unit, including easy access, strong security, and cost savings.
Convenience and Accessibility
Storage units are incredibly convenient for those needing extra space. If your home is cluttered, you can quickly move items to a storage unit and access them whenever you need. Many storage facilities offer flexible hours, allowing you to visit when it fits your schedule.
Units come in various sizes, so whether you have a few boxes or large furniture, there’s an option for you. By using a storage unit, you can keep your home organized and stress-free, only retrieving items as needed.
Security Features
One of the biggest benefits is the security that storage units provide. Most facilities are equipped with advanced security features like surveillance cameras, gated access, and alarm systems. This means your belongings are protected 24/7, giving you peace of mind.
Many units also have individual locks, adding an extra layer of security. Knowing that your items are safe can relieve a significant burden, especially if you’re storing valuable or sentimental items.
Cost-Effectiveness
Renting a storage unit can be a budget-friendly way to manage space. Compared to upgrading to a larger home, a storage unit is much more affordable. The prices vary based on the size and location of the unit, so you can choose one that fits your budget.
Additionally, many facilities offer month-to-month rentals, allowing you to rent for only as long as you need. This flexibility can save you money and prevent long-term financial commitments.
Choosing the Right Storage Unit
Selecting the right storage unit involves understanding the available sizes, whether you need climate control, and how close the storage location is to you. These factors can help you make a suitable choice for your needs.
Unit Sizes and Dimensions
Storage units come in different sizes to fit various needs. Small units like 5×5 or 5×10 are great for boxes and seasonal items. These are roughly the size of a walk-in closet.
Medium units such as 10×10 or 10×15 can store the contents of a one or two-bedroom apartment. These units are about the same size as a small bedroom or half a garage.
Larger units like 10×20 and 10×30 can hold the items from a house, including large furniture and appliances. Knowing the dimensions can help you choose the right unit size.
Climate-Controlled vs. Non-Climate-Controlled
Climate-controlled units are available at The View Storage in Amherstview and are ideal for items that are sensitive to temperature and humidity. These units maintain a consistent environment to protect your things. Items like electronics, wooden furniture, and important documents often need climate control.
Non-climate-controlled units are typically more affordable and suitable for items that are not as sensitive to environmental changes. If you are storing tools, outdoor furniture, or other durable items, a non-climate-controlled unit might be the right choice for you.
Considering what you are storing will help you decide between these two options.
Location and Proximity
The location of your storage unit matters, especially if you plan to visit often. Units closer to urban areas might cost more but offer easier access. For folks in Eastern Ontario areas such as Bath, Kingston, Amherstview, and more, The View Storage offers a very convenient location to store all of your goodies.
If frequent access is not a concern, units located further away might be more budget-friendly. Think about how often you need to access your unit and balance convenience with cost.
By considering these factors, you can select a storage unit that meets your needs effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
When considering what to store in a storage unit, it’s essential to know both what is allowed and what is smart to keep there. Understanding these things helps you make the best use of your storage space.
What’s the first thing I should think about when choosing what to store?
The first thing to think about is the type of items you’re planning to store. Make sure they’re not on the list of prohibited items, which often includes perishable goods, plants, and hazardous materials like propane tanks and paint.
What are folks usually storing in their rental units?
Commonly stored items include vintage furniture, seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, sporting equipment, and old records. These items are typically safe to store and benefit from the extra space a storage unit provides.
Got any tips for stuff that’s totally okay to keep in a storage unit?
Items like furniture, out-of-season clothing, decorations, and sporting gear are great candidates for storage. Small kitchen appliances and extra household goods can also be stored safely. Just be sure they’re clean and properly packed.
What do most people tend to put in self-storage?
Many people use storage units for larger household items needing space, such as furniture and seasonal gear. Things like Halloween or Christmas decorations often make their way to storage units since they are only used once a year.
What shouldn’t I put in a storage unit?
You shouldn’t store items like illegal goods, hazardous materials, and perishable food. Priceless or irreplaceable items like high-value artwork should also be kept at home or in a secure location, not in a standard storage unit.
How do I decide what’s worth storing and what’s not?
Deciding what’s worth storing depends on the value and necessity of the items. Consider whether you’ll need the item soon or if its worth warrants the storage cost. Items you rarely use but still want to keep, like sports equipment or family heirlooms, are good candidates for storage.