Self Storage Tips

Have a look at our self storage tips below to help you make the most out of your storage with us should you require it.

Self Storage Tips 1 – Packing boxes

Pack as much as possible in strong cardboard boxes;

• Keeping everything as square as possible will help you to maximise the space.
• Carboard boxes also help to protect items from dust and damage.
• Use packing materials such as bubble wrap and paper to prevent movement and reduce damage when storing.
• Secure with strong tape and write on the box what the contents are for easy reference.

Self Storage Tip 2 – Electrical appliances

Ensure any appliances that contain water are thoroughly dried out.

• Fridges and freezers should be thoroughly defrosted and dried.
• Always remember to prop something in the door so that it can’t close completely.  This will allow air to circulate and prevent the inside from becoming damp, mouldy and stale.
• Ensure washing machine, dishwasher and tumble dryer pipes have been fully emptied – you don’t want this leaking out into the rest of your belongings.

Self Storage Tips 3 – Protecting your belongings

Our packing materials shop has all that you could need for protecting your belongings.

• Use strong boxes as this will protect your belongings and allow you to stack more easily, allowing you to make better use of all available space.
• Use blankets or sheets as a layer between items to prevent scratches.
• Store clothing and soft furnishings in vacuum pack bags as this will keep things dry and help to prevent that musty smell that can occur.
• Use furniture covers; plastic coverings are okay for short-term, but paper coverings are better for long-term as they won’t sweat.

Self Storage Tips 4 – Label your boxes

Remember to clearly label your boxes;

• This will make finding items much easier as you will very quickly forget what has been packed.
• Be specific – don’t just write ‘kitchen’ or ‘bedroom’.  Try to include a description of what is inside e.g., ornaments and vases, bedding etc.

Self Storage Tips 5 – Make an inventory

Making an inventory as you pack your storage container will help you to know what is inside of each box. It is surprising how many people we have telling us that they cannot remember what is in their unit after a while.  So, by making a full inventory of what is inside you will easily be able to check in the future.

Self Storage Tips 6 – Packing order

Try and consider the order that you are packing, for example;

• Use larger, heavier items as base units for other items to be stacked on.
• Put items that you are less likely to want access to at the back.
• Items that you are more likely to want should be placed near the front, so they are more easily accessible.

Self Storage Tips 7 – Make use of all available space

Sounds obvious, but making full use of every inch of available space can be the difference between using a half-wooden storage crate or a full-size wooden storage crate for example.

• Stack things on shelving units.
• Make use of the space under a table or between chair legs – these gaps can be great for awkward items.
• Soft items can be used to fill in any gaps.
• Ensure that you are using the vertical space by considering the orientation of items e.g. mattresses.

Self Storage Tips 8 – Perishable goods

Do not store anything that can be classed as perishable. For example;

• Plants
• Food items
• Fuels – Try and empty all fuels from any power tools etc. as this will prevent the smell from seeping into everything else.

We hope that this self storage tips have been helpful, but if you need any advice or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be pleased to help.