Blog

Seasonal items have a way of taking over closets, garages, and spare rooms. Holiday decorations, winter coats, camping gear, sports equipment, and yard tools all shift in and out of use throughout the year, which can make your home feel cluttered if you don’t have a good system in place. Using a storage unit to keep these items organized can make life a lot easier, but how you store them matters just as much as where you store them. With a little planning, your seasonal belongings will stay protected, accessible, and ready to use when their season comes around again. Start by sorting everything into categories. Think about which items you use only during specific times of the year and which things you might reach for more often. For example, you may want to separate holiday decorations from bulky winter clothing or divide summer sports gear from gardening tools. Having everything grouped before you pack helps avoid clutter and makes it easier to place items strategically inside your unit. Once you have everything sorted, choose containers that offer real protection. Plastic bins with secure lids are ideal because they help keep moisture, dust, and pests away. They also stack well, which can save a lot of space. For soft items like bedding or seasonal clothing, compression bags work well because they reduce size and protect fabric from humidity. Make sure each container closes tightly and is strong enough to handle being moved or stacked. Labeling is one of the most helpful steps you can take. Instead of writing vague notes like “winter stuff,” be specific. Labeling bins with things like “holiday décor,” “ski gear,” or “summer camping supplies” saves time and prevents you from digging through multiple boxes later. If you want to take it a step further, keep a short inventory list on your phone that tells you exactly what’s inside each container. When you’re ready to place items in your unit, think about accessibility. Items you won’t need for many months can be stored toward the back, while things you may need sooner can stay closer to the front. For example, if you’re placing summer gear into storage at the start of fall, you can put it further back and keep winter items more accessible. Leaving a small walkway down the middle helps you reach anything you might need without having to rearrange the entire unit. Stacking your containers thoughtfully also makes a big difference. Heavier bins can go on the bottom while lighter ones are stacked on top. If you have delicate or breakable seasonal items—like fragile holiday decorations—set them aside in a safe area where they cannot be crushed. Using shelving can also help maximize vertical space and keep your unit feeling more organized. Protection matters, especially during long-term storage. Consider placing a breathable fabric cover over things like wreaths, outdoor cushions, or seasonal clothing to prevent dust buildup. If you’re storing metal items like gardening tools, make sure they are fully dry before storing so rust doesn’t form. A simple wipe-down and a little preparation can help keep your belongings in great condition. Seasonal storage should make your life easier, not more stressful. With the right containers, clear labels, and a thoughtful layout, you’ll always know where everything is and you won’t spend time hunting for what you need. Storing items you only use part of the year frees up space at home and helps you stay more organized throughout every season.

Renting a storage unit can be a convenient way to free up space at home, protect valuable items, or store seasonal belongings. However, many people make common mistakes that can lead to wasted space, extra costs, or even damage to their belongings. Knowing what to avoid can help you get the most out of your storage experience at Storaway Self Storage. 1. Choosing the Wrong Unit Size One of the most frequent mistakes is renting a unit that’s too small or too large. A unit that’s too small can make it difficult to fit your belongings, while a unit that’s too large may cost more than necessary. Take inventory of your items and consult storage experts to find the perfect size. 2. Overlooking Climate Control Certain items, such as electronics, artwork, important documents, or antiques, can be damaged by extreme temperatures or humidity. If you’re storing delicate or valuable items, consider a climate-controlled unit to keep them safe. 3. Ignoring Security Features Not all storage facilities offer the same level of security. Before renting, check for gated access, surveillance cameras, well-lit lots, and individual unit alarms. Choosing a secure facility like Storaway Self Storage ensures your belongings are protected from theft or vandalism. 4. Not Considering Access Hours Some storage facilities have restricted access hours. Make sure the facility’s access schedule aligns with your needs, especially if you anticipate needing frequent access to your unit. 5. Packing Inefficiently Poor packing can lead to wasted space and difficulty retrieving items. Use uniform boxes, label everything clearly, and stack items carefully—placing heavier items at the bottom and fragile items on top. Avoid cramming boxes into tight spaces, which can cause damage. 6. Neglecting Insurance Many renters assume their homeowner’s insurance covers stored items, but this is not always the case. Check with your insurance provider and consider additional coverage for valuable or irreplaceable belongings. 7. Skipping the Fine Print Storage agreements often include important details regarding payment, late fees, and unit access. Failing to read the contract carefully can result in unexpected charges or misunderstandings. Always review the terms before signing. Avoiding these common mistakes can save time, money, and stress when renting a storage unit. By planning ahead, choosing the right size and security features, and packing efficiently, you can ensure a successful storage experience at Storaway Self Storage.