Storage Tips
Make Storage Easy with Easy Stop Storage’s Storage Tips
New to storing in a self storage unit? Easy Stop Storage has put together this list of tips and tricks to get you started.
From how to pack your items at home to how to load them efficiently into your storage unit, these self storage tips will help you start storing like a pro in no time.
Find your self storage unit with us now and use our storage tips to have the best experience possible!
Packing Fabrics and Household Items
Store clothing, curtains, drapes, and similar fabrics on hangers when possible; otherwise, fold neatly into drawers or cedar chests.
Keep bedding and linens together with other soft goods to make storage and retrieval easier.
Use bureau drawers to store small, fragile fabric items and cushion them with towels or packing paper to protect them from damage.
Leave slipcovers on upholstered chairs and cover them with plastic chair covers for added protection.
Stack lightweight chairs “seat to seat” or place them upside down on sturdy tables.
Place a light cotton dust cover or sheet over furniture and fabric items to protect surfaces from dust.
Packing Breakables and Delicate Items
Wrap each dish and glass individually and place padding at the top and bottom of every box.
Stack plates, saucers, and platters on edge, and nest cups or bowls together for stability.
Fill all open pockets in breakable-item boxes with packing paper to prevent shifting.
Pad mirrors and paintings with paper, placing them in mirror packs or large boxes.
Wrap large lamp bases and pack lampshades separately, avoiding newsprint to prevent ink stains from transferring.
Label all fragile boxes clearly and avoid placing heavy items on top of them.
Furniture, Appliances, and Metal Items
Place pallets, cardboard, or plastic sheets under furniture to prevent moisture damage.
Stand sofas and mattresses on end when possible, and disassemble beds and tables to save space.
Clean and fully dry all appliances before storing. Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors slightly ajar.
Secure all movable appliance parts and keep cords taped or bundled neatly.
Wipe metal items, tools, bicycles, and equipment with a lightly oiled rag to prevent rust from forming.
Store mirrors, glass sheeting, and screens on edge rather than flat to avoid breakage.
Storage Unit Organization and Efficiency
Leave air space around the perimeter of the unit for ventilation and easier long-term preservation.
Use the same-size boxes when possible to stack more efficiently and safely.
Create a clear walkway through the center of your storage unit to ensure easy access to all items.
Store frequently needed items near the front of the unit for quick retrieval.
Keep boxes off concrete floors by using pallets or skids to prevent moisture absorption.
Use plastic storage containers when appropriate to reduce reliance on packing tape and increase accessibility.
Moving Preparation and Final Steps
Make a moving timeline and work gradually, one closet or room at a time.
Sort belongings into “keep, give, or trash” piles ahead of time to simplify your load.
Gather a variety of supplies, including boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, tape, markers, and protective covers, before you begin.
Limit box weight to 30 lbs. or less, packing heavy items in small boxes and filling empty spaces with soft materials.
On moving day, discard flammable materials, strip the beds, defrost appliances, and cover mattresses if storing them.
Finish by turning off utilities, closing windows, locking doors, and keeping essential items easily accessible for the day.
