Preparing to Store Your Items in Self Storage for the Fall: A Complete Guide

1. Choose the Right Storage Unit

• Size: Estimate how much space you’ll need. It’s better to choose a slightly larger unit to avoid cramming items together.
• Climate Control: Fall weather can be unpredictable, with cool nights and warm days. If you’re storing items that are sensitive to temperature fluctuations—like electronics, wooden furniture, or artwork—opt for a climate-controlled unit to protect them from humidity and extreme temperatures.

2. Clean and Prepare Your Items

• Furniture: Wipe down furniture, and disassemble large pieces if possible. Use furniture covers or moving blankets to protect surfaces from dust and scratches.
• Clothing: Launder all clothing before storage to prevent mold or odors. Store clothes in plastic containers with lids, rather than cardboard boxes, to keep moisture and pests out.
• Summer Equipment: Clean and dry all outdoor gear, including lawn furniture, gardening tools, and sports equipment. Storing these items while wet or dirty can lead to rust, mold, or deterioration.
• Appliances: Empty and clean appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, and microwaves. Make sure they are completely dry before storage to avoid mildew.

3. Use Quality Packing Materials

• Plastic Bins: Use clear, plastic bins with secure lids for storing clothing, bedding, and smaller items. These are more durable than cardboard boxes and offer better protection against moisture.
• Bubble Wrap and Packing Paper: Wrap fragile items, such as glassware and electronics, with bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent damage during transportation and storage.
• Heavy-Duty Boxes: Use sturdy, heavy-duty boxes for larger or heavier items. Label each box clearly to make retrieval easier.

4. Organize Your Storage Unit

• Create a Path: Leave a walkway down the center of your unit so you can easily access items in the back without having to unload everything.
• Stack Strategically: Place heavier items or boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top. Use shelving units if possible to keep items off the floor and organized.
• Label Everything: Clearly label each box or bin with its contents and the room it belongs to, so you can quickly find what you need when the time comes.

5. Consider Long-Term Protection

• Moisture Control: Place moisture absorbers or silica gel packets in your storage unit to combat humidity and prevent mold and mildew.
• Pest Protection: Consider using pest control products like mothballs or traps to keep rodents and insects away from your belongings.
• Cover Items: Use dust covers, sheets, or plastic wrap to protect large items like furniture, mattresses, and appliances from dust and dirt accumulation.

6. Check on Your Storage Unit