Storage Tips: Best Practices for Your Ottawa Storage Unit

Putting your belongings in a self-storage unit is a great way to save space and declutter. 

Contrary to the popular belief that storage units are only used for large items such as boats or winter equipment, they can also be used to store everyday items.

Seasonal decorations, camping equipment, and unused kitchen appliances are among the few things that can be placed in storage. Whether you’ve been collecting things over the years or planning a renovation, you need a place to keep your belongings safely stored and out of the way.

However, if not careful, your storage space can get messy and unorganized in no time, leaving you rummaging for hours for your things. By following these simple storage tips, you’ll be able to have an organized and easy-to-navigate storage space in no time. 

Take Inventory of Storage Items 

The easiest way to stay organized is by making a list of all the things you have put in storage. 

Before packing your belongings away in boxes, make a list, preferably digital, and jot down every item that you place in the box. You can also label the boxes and place the name of the box next to the corresponding items on the list. 

This way you’ll be able to keep track of what items are where and save the time and effort of searching each box later on. 

Plan Smart 

When placing your boxes in storage, always keep accessibility in mind. It’s important to plan where your items will go according to how often you’ll need to access them. 

Larger and heavier items, such as canoes, ski equipment, and furniture should be stored at the back, as they are only used for short periods of time during the year.

Small and fragile items like clothes, toys, and electronics should be stored towards the front of the unit, as you’ll need direct access to them.

Be sure to place all the boxes in a layout that allows you to navigate the unit with ease and without any obstructions.

How to Clean Your Storage Unit 

It can be very easy to simply drop off your things and walk away, though this can easily become problematic. 

Keeping your storage unit clean is essential in making sure your belongings stay in the same condition as when you first stored them. Start by setting a deadline to have your unit cleaned by.

Having a set time in place will help you stay on track and motivate you to complete the task faster. Trying to clean the entire storage unit in one day is not recommended, as you’ll likely get tired and not clean as efficiently. 

The first step is to declutter your unit by creating a keep and donate/ throw away pile. Go through every box and sort the items into their appropriate piles. Any belongings you’ll need for the upcoming season should be brought to the front of the unit for easier access. 

Once everything has been sorted, it’s time to sweep and dust. Be sure to wipe down the items before placing them back in their respective boxes. After everything has been put away, sweep and mop the floors, and you’re done! 

State-of-the-Art Storage Units in Ottawa

People with limited storage space at home find it difficult to maintain an organized and clean environment all the time. 

Self-storage units come in all shapes in sizes, ranging from units no bigger than a walk-in closet to spaces that can fit large furniture and equipment. At Acceptable Storage, you can rest assured that all your belongings are kept safe with our advanced security system and climate-controlled units. 

Get in touch with us to learn more about storage tips and get a free, no-obligation quote today.