Top 10 Storage Tips
Simple Things That Make a Big Difference
A little prep goes a long way. These tips will help protect your stuff, save you time later, and make your storage unit way easier to use.
1. Label Every Box (More Than You Think)
Write on at least two sides of each box:
- What's inside
- Which room it came from
Future you will be grateful when you're not digging through six boxes trying to find one thing.
2. Leave an Aisle You Can Walk Through
Even a narrow walkway lets you:
- Grab things without unloading everything
- Check on your unit easily
- Stay organized over time
Don't pack wall to wall if you actually want to access your stuff.
3. Use Plastic Bags for Soft Items
Clothes, linens, pillows, and blankets stay cleaner when:
- Sealed in plastic bags or bins
- Protected from dust and moisture
Vacuum bags are great for saving space too.
4. Peppermint Helps Keep Mice Away (Seriously)
Mice hate strong smells. A lot of customers use:
- Peppermint oil on cotton balls
- Peppermint sachets placed around the unit
This isn't a replacement for storing things properly, but it's a helpful extra step.
5. Never Store Food (Even Sealed Food)
Food attracts pests and causes problems fast, even dry goods in boxes.
If you can eat it, don't store it.
6. Keep Items Off the Floor
Use pallets, shelves, or sturdy bins to:
- Improve airflow
- Protect against moisture
- Make cleaning easier
Even lifting things a couple inches helps.
7. Wrap Furniture the Right Way
- Use moving blankets or furniture pads
- Put plastic wrap over the padding (not directly on wood)
- Take table legs off when you can
This prevents scratches, dents, and moisture problems.
8. Put Heavy Stuff Low, Light Stuff High
Sounds obvious, but it matters:
- Keeps stacks stable
- Stops boxes from getting crushed
- Makes everything safer to access
Think heavy foundation, light top.
9. Take Photos Once Everything's Packed
A quick phone photo:
- Helps you remember where things are
- Saves time down the road
- Can help with insurance if you need it
Do it once and you'll be glad you did.
10. Leave Some Extra Space
Most people end up adding more stuff later.
Leaving a little breathing room:
- Means you won't have to repack everything
- Saves you frustration
- Keeps your unit actually usable
If you're deciding between two sizes, go with the bigger one.
One Last Thing
If you're not sure how to pack something or what size you need, just ask us. We'd rather help you get it right the first time than watch you struggle later.
Need Help Choosing a Size?
Use our Storage Unit Size Guide to find the perfect unit size for your needs.