Our Storage Facility Managers Share Their Best Self-Storage Secrets | Countryside Self Storage
Whether it’s your first time looking for self-storage in Missouri and Kansas or you’ve had a storage unit for some time, you’re going to want to get the most out of your storage solutions. That’s why we’ve interviewed our self-storage managers to learn some of the best self-storage tips and storage secrets that they’ve accumulated throughout their careers. We’ve gathered all of these helpful tips in one place just for you!
Create an inventory map.
Think of it like a treasure map that will help you find the exact item that you’re looking for when you need to retrieve it from storage. The easiest way to create an accurate map is to make it (and update it) as you’re moving stuff into storage. If you have a creative kid in the house, they might have a lot of fun making the map for you (or with you)!
Mark the floor with painter’s tape.
This is an easy way to visually organize your storage unit, even before you start moving things in. If you have larger items that are going into storage, you can mark out the floor with painter’s tape to designate where they should go. Even better, the painter’s tape is easy to remove and doesn’t leave behind sticky residue, so you can change the organization at a moment’s notice.
Use scented dryer sheets.
One of our favorite self-storage tips is to place scented dryer sheets in discrete spots throughout your unit. This will help keep your stored items smelling fresh and help to repel insects and other pests!
Turn suitcases into mini storage units.
Many of us store luggage when it’s not in use, but it takes up a lot of room. There’s no reason to let that space go to waste! A suitcase can become a miniature storage unit for linens, books, electronics, or any other small items. This is not only a great way to maximize space, but it’ll also help keep stored items safe and sound.
Get some silica gel (or moisture absorber) packs.
You’ve seen these little white packets of moisture-absorbing material before. They often come packed in shoes, electronics, and other goods. Did you know that you can buy these yourself and use them anytime you want to prevent moisture from accumulating? Check local stores or search on-line for “moisture absorber packs,” and find some to put in your storage unit to help protect electronics, photographs, and other items that are sensitive to moisture.
Vacuum seal it!
Believe it or not, vacuum sealing is something that’s easy to do at home. All it takes are some vacuum-seal bags and a household vacuum cleaner. Vacuum sealing clothing, bedding, and other textiles can not only protect your belongings from moisture and dust, it can also save lots of space!
Invest in good shelving.
When it comes to storage secrets to help you get the most out of your storage solutions, one of the best tips is to make use of vertical space. One of the best ways to do that is to invest in some good shelving units. Be sure that you label where everything is, and if you’re using multiple shelving units, leave an aisle so you can get to your stuff.
These are just a few of the self-storage tips that our storage managers have gained over years of helping homeowners just like you make the most of your storage experience. Stay tuned to our blog for the next installment in this series! If you have questions, come by one of our convenient locations and ask. We’re always happy to help!
With five premier facilities offering self-storage in Missouri and Kansas, there’s bound to be a Countryside Self-Storage location near you! If you have questions or are ready to start your self-storage journey, contact us today at any of our Pittsburg, Joplin, or Frontenac locations.