Learn About the Best Storage Practices
Bashford Ave Storage can provide you with the best storage solutions. However, if you need guidance on packing and storing your items, especially when they are bulky, read these useful tips below.
Self-Storage Tips
- Get a sense of the space available by visiting your new storage unit in person
- 5'x5' - small closet; holds a dresser, a small mattress set, and several boxes
- 5'x10' - walk-in closet; holds a queen-sized bed, a dresser, a TV, etc.
- 5'x15' - large walk-in closet; holds a queen-sized bed, a dresser, a TV, etc.
- 10'x10' - half of a one-car garage; holds the contents of two small rooms
- 10'x15' - ¾ of a one-car garage; holds the contents of three small rooms
- 10'x20' - standard one-car garage; holds the contents of a multi-bedroom house
- 10'x30' - 1-½ car garage; holds the contents of a fully furnished 3 - 5 bedroom house
- Label your cartons and take home a list for future reference
- Estimate the value of each item you store to help select an insurance policy
- Leave a walkway to the rear of the unit
- Place frequently desired items near the door; store valuables out of sight
- Choosing the right lock is essential! A stainless-steel disc lock is the most secure and durable for outdoor access units; we sell these in the office for $10
- Do not keep flammable or combustible items in your unit. This means no gas, oil, cleaning fluids, etc. Please store machinery that runs on gas with an empty tank
- Store large items near the walls; leave room for air to circulate
- Place fragile items near the top; do not stack other items on top of them
- Utilize the full height of your unit
- Use the space inside large items (like dressers / fridges) for storing small / fragile items
- Fill containers completely; use smaller containers for heavier items like books
- Use plastic storage bins with lids instead of boxes on the bottom of your stack
- Don’t pack items into sealed plastic bags, as humidity can cause mildew
- Pack books flat to avoid damaging their spines
- Seal all your boxes with packing tape
- Disassemble large furniture items, if possible
- Use uniform sized-boxes for easy stacking; place heavier boxes on the bottom
- Store couches (except sofa beds) on end
- Add bay leaves to boxes to ward off most pests
- If you’re worried about the atmosphere in the unit, put down moisture absorbers
- Keep fridge / freezer doors slightly ajar (they should be clean and dry before storing)
- Wrap mirrors and pictures with paper pads or blankets and store upright