Storage Tips

Take the hassle out of storing your things by taking a little care up front.

When you’re packing, keep in mind…

• Keep an inventory of everything you pack, one inside your storage unit and an extra one for reference.
• Use clean cartons, designed for storage and moving. Use the same size cartons for easy stacking. Order cartons from us.
• Use plenty of plain newsprint to fill each carton completely. (Regular newspaper can soil your things.) Order plain newsprint from us.
• Seal each carton with packing tape to keep your things clean. Order packing tape from us.
• Label each carton clearly.
• Wrap small items in tissue paper before packing so they don’t get lost.
• Pack books flat, not standing on end. Put them and other heavy items in smaller boxes for easier lifting.
• Pack plates and record albums on end rather than flat. Order special dishpacks from us.
• Remove bulbs before packing lamps.
• Drain gasoline and oil from all small engines.
• Pack mirrors and pictures in mirror cartons. Order mirror cartons from us.
• Be sure to have blankets, draperies and clothing cleaned before storing them, then pack them right on the hanger in a wardrobe carton. Order wardrobe cartons from us.
• When you’re loading your Storage Unit, keep in mind…
• If possible, store couches (except sofa sleepers) on end to maximize space in your storage unit.
• Remove table legs or disassemble furniture to maximize space in your storage unit.
• Protect mattresses and furniture with special pads and covers. Order from us.
• Stack cartons so labels show.
• Leave a center aisle in your storage unit for easy access to your things.
• Load things you may need last so you can get to them easily when you open your vault the next time.
• Load heavy things on the bottom and lighter things on top.
• Prop open the doors of refrigerators and freezers and clean them thoroughly. Put a handful of fresh coffee grounds, baking soda or charcoal in a sock or nylon stocking and place it inside to keep the unit smelling fresh.
• Please note:
  DO NOT STORE:
  1. Aerosols
  2. Ammunition
  3. Cleaning fluids
  4. Corrosives
  5. Detergents
  6. Environmentally-hazardous materials, such as paint and varnish
  7. Explosives
  8. Flammable materials, such as fuel, gasoline, kerosene, and oil
  9. Live animals and plants
  10. Nail polish and remover
  11. Perishable items
• Do NOT store any liquids, not even water, as spillage could ruin other contents or cause mold.
• Should you want to retrieve an item from your storage vault, please call your Store Your Things location at least two hours in advance of your visit. Check with your location for business hours. Smoking is prohibited on the premises.