How to Keep Your Storage Unit Clean & Organized

Storage units are simple closet, room, or garage-sized boxes simply used to store your extra stuff. Keeping that stuff clean and organized can also be simple, if you take a few extra steps before and during storage. Remember, clean and organized items will stay in better shape while in storage, so follow these tips:

• Prepare to purge. Trash and food can’t go in a storage unit. Not only is that unsanitary, it will invite insects and rodents to feast on your things in the storage unit. It may sound silly, but there are plenty of people who store trash in their unit, especially if they are in a hurry. Don’t be a statistic; toss it before you get to the storage facility. Take some extra time to go through the things you want to store and toss things like that sock you can’t find the partner to, or that old stereo speaker that no longer works, etc. If it’s trivial and you don’t think you will need it in the foreseeable future, save some space and get rid of it.
• Clean before you put it in storage. Dirty furniture, clothes, and other stored items are more likely to get worse or even get moldy while in storage. Cleaning thoroughly before storage helps prevent this. Make sure to clean upholstery & fabric, wipe down wooden furniture with a cleaner/polish, wash clothes and shoes, etc. The most important thing after cleaning: dry completely! Any lingering moisture can invite mildew. If you are storing a refrigerator and/or washer, be absolutely certain all the water has drained from the bottom tub and tubes.
• Group and label. Put your items in groups based on how often you may need to access those items. If you’ll rarely or never need access while in storage (usually large furniture fits this description), put those items in the back of the unit, and place the more frequently needed items up front for easy access. Once grouped by needed access, label boxes so you’ll know right where to go when you need to grab something. Use shelving units for easy access and to keep items off the concrete.
• Take inventory. Take pictures of your stored items for your records. This will come in handy if a situation ever arises where you need to make an insurance claim due to fire or break in.
• Use breathable covers to place on your items to keep dust and dirt to a minimum. Storage units are not air-tight, so dirt and dust will accumulate on your items over time.
• Rotate and inspect. Every now and then you should visit your space to rotate your items around, redistribute weight, and inspect their condition. This is important if you have a long-term storage need. Even if you rent a climate-controlled storage unit, you still need to check on your items every now and then. Make sure to report any unit maintenance issues to the facility manager.
• Sweep and dust. When you make your periodic visits, do some light sweeping and dusting.

Keeping your unit organized and clean isn’t hard, it just takes a little extra effort. Stop by any Jack Rabbit Storage location for more information on available units and needed packing supplies.