10 Essential Things to Store in Your Storage Unit This Summer
Bridgette Venezia | May 20, 2024
As the summer season approaches, it's the perfect time to declutter and organize your living space by moving non-essential items into storage. Doing so not only creates more room at home but also protects your belongings from damage and wear. Here’s a detailed guide on what to store and how to ensure your items remain in top condition during the warmer months.
1. Winter Clothing and Gear
Transitioning your wardrobe from winter to summer can be a space-saving challenge. Bulky winter coats, heavy sweaters, and snow gear take up a lot of room, leaving little space for your summer wardrobe. Instead of letting these items crowd your closet, consider storing them in vacuum-sealed bags. This not only maximizes storage space but also protects your winter clothes from pests and moisture.
To store winter hobby sports gear in a storage unit throughout the warmer months, start by thoroughly cleaning and drying all equipment to prevent mold and mildew. Disassemble larger items, like skis and snowboards, to save space and reduce the risk of damage. Use protective covers or padded bags for delicate items to guard against scratches and impacts. Store smaller gear, such as gloves, goggles, and helmets, in clear plastic bins for easy organization and protection from dust. Label everything clearly and create an inventory list to keep track of your gear. By taking these steps, you can keep your winter sports equipment in excellent condition and ready for the next season.
2. Holiday Decorations
It's essential to pack away your ornaments, lights, and seasonal decor properly to ensure they stay in good condition for the next year. Using sturdy plastic bins is a practical and efficient way to store these items safely. Plastic bins protect from dust, moisture, and accidental damage, keeping your delicate decorations intact. Labeling each bin with its contents is a simple yet effective way to stay organized and make redecorating next season a breeze. Additionally, labeling allows you to keep track of your decorations and helps prevent any items from getting lost or misplaced while storing.
When packing away your ornaments, consider using tissue paper or bubble wrap to cushion delicate items and prevent them from shifting or breaking inside the bins. For string lights, consider wrapping them around a piece of cardboard or using a cord reel to prevent tangling and damage.
By taking the time to pack away your decorations properly, you can ensure that they remain in excellent condition and are ready to bring joy and festive cheer to your home next season.
3. Heirlooms and Sentimental Items
Family heirlooms, photo albums, and sentimental keepsakes are invaluable treasures that carry the stories and memories of generations past. These items often hold significant emotional value, making their preservation a top priority. To ensure these cherished possessions remain in excellent condition, it's important to store them properly to prevent damage from extreme weather conditions. To preserve and package family heirlooms in a self-storage unit, start by cleaning each item thoroughly to remove dust and dirt. Wrap delicate items in acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap to prevent damage. Use sturdy, sealed plastic containers for additional protection against moisture and pests.
For larger items like furniture, cover them with breathable fabric covers to prevent dust buildup while allowing airflow. Label each box clearly and create an inventory list to keep track of your items. Place heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter, more fragile items on top to avoid crushing. By taking these precautions, you can ensure your family heirlooms remain safe and well-preserved.
4. Outdoor Furniture and Equipment
To protect your outdoor furniture and equipment from sun exposure, rust, and moisture during the summer months, it's best to store away items like metal furniture, wooden pieces, and fabric cushions. Metal furniture can rust and corrode if left in humid conditions, while wooden pieces may crack, warp, or fade under intense sunlight. Fabric cushions and covers are prone to mildew and fading from prolonged sun exposure. Additionally, storing items like outdoor grills, lawn tools, and sports equipment can prevent rust and deterioration, ensuring they remain in good working condition.
To maximize convenience and functionality, you can take out individual items as needed. This approach allows you to enjoy your outdoor space while protecting your investments from unnecessary damage. By storing these items properly and selectively using them, you can significantly extend their usability and maintain their appearance for many seasons to come.
5. Unused Sports Equipment
During the warmer summer months, it's essential to store away winter sports equipment to keep it in optimal condition for the next season. Items such as skis, snowboards, ice skates, and hockey gear should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before being packed away to prevent mold, mildew, and rust. Protective padding and helmets, which can degrade in high temperatures and humidity, should also be stored in a cool, dry place.
Additionally, store items like snowshoes, sleds, and winter-specific clothing, such as heavy jackets, gloves, and thermal wear, in sealed containers to protect them from dust, pests, and moisture. Properly storing this equipment ensures it remains in excellent condition, ready for use when the colder months return.
6. Documents and Paperwork
When preparing to store documents and paperwork in a storage unit over the summer, it's important to prioritize items that are sensitive to heat, humidity, and light exposure. Important documents such as birth certificates, passports, property deeds, and insurance policies should be stored in airtight containers or file boxes to protect them from moisture and pests. Consider using plastic sleeves or laminating important papers to provide an extra layer of protection.
Additionally, bringing a filing cabinet to your storage unit can help keep documents organized and easily accessible. Alternatively, you can place them in plastic bins, labeled clearly for easy identification. Keep financial records, tax returns, and legal documents in a safe, secure location within the storage unit. Organize them in a way that allows for easy retrieval if necessary, as some documents may need to be accessed during the summer.
7. Extra Bedding and Linens
As the warmer months approach, it's a great idea to store away extra bedding and linens that won't be needed during the summer, such as wool blankets or down comforters. To keep them in good condition, start by washing and thoroughly drying them to prevent any moisture buildup that could lead to mold or mildew. Once clean, store them in a cool, dry place, preferably in a breathable storage bag or container. Adding a few cedar balls or lavender sachets can help keep them smelling fresh and protect against moths. Label the storage containers for easy identification when you need them again. This way, your bedding will stay fresh and ready for use when the colder seasons return.
8. Unused Appliances
As the temperature rises and the need for winter appliances diminishes, it's wise to properly store away space heaters, electric blankets, and other winter appliances to ensure they remain in good condition for future use. Begin by unplugging and carefully inspecting each item for any signs of damage. Clean them thoroughly according to the manufacturer's instructions to remove any dust or debris. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Consider using original packaging or dedicated storage containers to protect them from dust and potential damage. Label the containers for easy identification when you need them again. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your winter appliances are well-preserved and ready for use when the colder months return.
9. Books and Magazines
Rotating your book and magazine collection seasonally can breathe new life into your reading habits. As the seasons change, consider storing away winter-themed literature and replacing them with lighter, more summery reads. This not only frees up space but also keeps your reading material organized and tailored to the season. Imagine cozying up with a thrilling mystery or a heartwarming romance novel during the winter months, while summer invites you to dive into a captivating beach read or an inspiring travelogue. By curating your collection this way, you create a sense of anticipation and freshness, ensuring that your reading list aligns perfectly with the mood of each season.
10. Memorabilia and Collections
A storage unit offers a secure and organized environment for collectors of various items, such as vintage records, rare comic books, and cherished memorabilia. Utilizing sturdy shelving within the unit maximizes space and ensures that your collections are easily accessible and well-protected. Proper organization not only facilitates quick retrieval of items but also prevents damage that can occur when items are haphazardly stacked. By maintaining a well-organized storage unit, you can have peace of mind knowing that your collections and memorabilia are safely stored and preserved for years to come.
When storing records or comic books, it's crucial to follow specific guidelines to maintain their condition. For records, store them vertically to prevent warping, and use plastic or paper sleeves to protect the covers and vinyl from dust and scratches. Ensure they are kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and fluctuating temperatures. Comic books should be stored in acid-free bags with backing boards to prevent creasing and yellowing. Comic book boxes, specially designed to support and protect the comics, are highly recommended. Store them in a cool, dry place with consistent temperature and humidity levels to prevent damage from moisture and mold. These proper storage techniques will help preserve the quality of your collections and memorabilia for years to come.
Summer Simplified: Smart Storage Strategies for Seasonal Items
By strategically using a storage unit during the summer, you can significantly enhance your home's usable space while ensuring that your seasonal and valuable items remain secure and in excellent condition. With thoughtful planning and appropriate storage methods, you can enjoy a tidy, organized summer with the peace of mind that your belongings are well-protected.
Ready to free up your space this summer? Contact us today to find the perfect storage solution for your needs!
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