Storage Tips

What Size Storage Unit Do I Need and How Do I Pack It?

Before putting your belongings inside a storage unit, you should know the proper ways to prepare and pack your items for storage.
1. Decide which personal items to put in storage; if it's not sentimental, valuable or useful, try donating it or selling it instead. You may want to create an inventory list of all your items.

2. Thoroughly clean and dry all belongings before putting them in a storage unit. If they're clean to begin with, they'll be much less likely to smell bad later. It's a good idea to wipe down all surfaces with a cleaning spray and vaccuum sofas and chair cushions. For appliances like washing machines, refrigerators and dishwashers, make sure to leave the appliance doors slightly open to prevent moisture, mold or mildew from building up. Cover sofas and mattresses with a light dust cover and place on cardboard.

3. Use airtight plastic bins instead of boxes. If you use cardboard boxes instead, be sure that they are sturdy enough to withstand long-term storage and clearly label each one. Be specific, instead of labeling a box "kitchen stuff," label it "pots, pans and blender."

4. When placing your belongings in storage, be strategic about how and where you store them inside the unit. If you want to save space, store items in a veritcal positions. If the item is large or heavy, place it on the bottom and cover furniture with cotton sheets. Also consider which items you're going to need more often like seasonal clothing or decorations.

5. Know if there are storage restrictions, what can and can't be stored inside your unit. There is usually a list of restricted items due to their being dangerous; such as gasoline, propane tanks, paint, fertilizer, any chemicals, firewarks or explosives. If it is flammable it does belong inside a storage unit. Also, no medicine, plants or perishible food should be kept inside a storage unit.

6. You may want to safeguard items from outside conditions by using moisture elimination products. Also consider the quality of your packing supplies.

Contact Valdosta Mini Storage today if you have any questions about storing your possessions!