Seven Easy Ways to Transform Your Outdoor Space for Summer Fun

Transform Your Outdoor Space

Summer is almost here, and it will soon be time to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine. One of the best ways to do that is by spending time in your outdoor space. Whether you have a small balcony or a large backyard, you can transform your outdoor space into a summer oasis with a few simple changes.

If you don’t already have a self storage unit, now is the perfect time to rent one. We don’t want to think about it right now, but summer will come to an end. This means you’ll need extra storage space for your outdoor decor. Trusted Self Storage has the types and sizes of self storage that you need to keep all of your summer items in perfect condition when you’re not using them.

In the meantime, here are seven easy ways to spruce up your outdoor space for summer fun,

Transform your outdoor space

Get Ready for Summer

1. Assess Your Space

Before you begin your outdoor transformation project, it’s important to assess your space. Take a look at the size and shape of your area, as well as any natural features such as trees or shrubs.
Consider how you plan to use your space. Do you want to entertain guests, relax with a good book, or dine al fresco? Once you have a clear idea of your needs and wants, you can begin planning your transformation.

2. Set a Budget

Transforming your outdoor space doesn’t have to break the bank. Before you start shopping for new furniture and decor, set a budget for your project. Consider how much you are willing to spend on each item, and prioritize your purchases.

For example, if you plan to entertain guests, you may want to invest in a high-quality outdoor dining set. If you simply want to relax, a comfortable outdoor lounge chair may be a less expensive option.

3. Add Outdoor Furniture and Decor

Outdoor furniture and decor can make a big difference in the look and feel of your outdoor space. Consider adding a comfortable outdoor sofa or loveseat, along with colorful cushions and throw pillows. A cozy outdoor rug can also add warmth and texture to your space. For smaller areas, consider a bistro set or a few folding chairs.

When you’re shopping for outdoor furniture, look for comfort, quality, and affordability. Even with durable furniture covers, your furniture will be exposed to the elements at times. Be sure that it can stand up to high temperatures and occasional stormy weather.

4. Incorporate Colorful Plans and Greenery

Incorporating flowering plants and greenery into your outdoor space can help create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Consider adding a mix of potted plants, hanging baskets, and garden beds. Choose plants that thrive in your climate and are easy to care for. Don’t forget to water your plants regularly and fertilize them as needed.

Interestingly, the Journal of Environmental Psychology states that viewing a flower image or viewing flowers may induce automatic distraction from a stressor and support recovery.

5. Install Inviting Lighting

Outdoor lighting can help create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while also providing safety and security. Consider adding string lights, lanterns, or candles to your space. You can also install solar-powered path lights or motion-sensor floodlights for added safety. Don’t forget to test your lighting before your first outdoor gathering to ensure that everything is working properly.

6. Relax With Water Features

Water features such as fountains, ponds, or waterfalls can add a soothing and relaxing element to your outdoor space. Consider adding a small fountain or a pond with colorful fish. You can also create a DIY water feature using a large pot or a birdbath. Remember that mosquitoes use standing water as a breeding ground, so be sure to keep your water feature clean and well-maintained.

7. Get Ready For Outdoor Entertainment

Transforming your outdoor space can also provide new opportunities for entertainment. Consider adding a grill or an outdoor kitchen for easy summer cookouts. You can also add a fire pit or a chiminea for cozy evenings under the stars. Don’t forget to add some outdoor games or activities, such as corn hole, bocce ball, or croquet.

Conclusion

Transforming your outdoor space for summer fun doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little planning and creativity, you can turn your backyard or patio into a relaxing and inviting oasis. Assess your space, set a budget, and incorporate furniture, greenery, lighting, and water features. Don’t forget to add some outdoor entertainment options and enjoy your new space with family and friends.

It’s Time to Store Your Outdoor Gear and Summer Toys

Self Storage Best Practices

There’s still plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors in the fall before the snow flies and winter takes over. Outdoor gear, toys, and other types of leisure gear can break down over time if they aren’t taken care of properly. If you want your camping gear, sports supplies, and other outdoor equipment to remain in excellent functioning condition the next time you need to use them, learn self storage best practices for your seasonal items.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: self storage units are not places to store anything irreplaceable, but most are safe and reliable. When these valuables aren’t being used, self storage is the best place to keep them safe and secure. Here are some suggestions on the best way to preserve your summer equipment and outdoor toys until next season:

Miscellaneous outdoor gear ready to be stored.

Self Storage Best Practices: Camping Gear

Tents can survive the weather, but they wear out rapidly if not kept properly. Mold may form on a damp cloth, and a compression bag can shorten the life of the tent poles. Follow these steps to clean your tent before putting it away for the winter:

  • Use soap and water to clean the cloth gently. When you’ve finished removing all of the dirt and odors, it’s time to give it a good rinse.
  • Let the tent dry entirely in the air by hanging it up or spreading it out on a flat surface.
  • Pillowcase the dry tent and tent poles together. The tent’s compact carrying bag isn’t great for long-term storage; it’s better suited for transport.

Watersports Equipment

Scuba equipment, surfboards, and water skis all require different care than your average pair of shoes. Water skis and scuba gear may be hosed off to remove marine debris, including salt, sand, and bacteria. The next step is to let them air dry completely.

Surfboards need significantly more maintenance. Surfboards, like any other piece of aquatic gear, should be rinsed thoroughly after use. However, before stowing the board away for the winter, its wax coating should be renewed. And here’s how you do it:

  • For best results, you should heat up the surfboard in direct sunlight for at least half an hour. Because of this, removing the wax from the board will be a much simpler task.
  • All wax, filth, and grime can be removed with a little WD-40.
  • The board has to be totally dry before a new layer of wax is applied.
  • Surfboards should be kept in a permeable bag, much as dive gear and water skis.

Canoes and kayaks, although designed for use in the great outdoors, shouldn’t be kept there while they aren’t in use. Sunlight may deteriorate plastic and composite boats. On top of that, materials and joints might be particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of cold weather. Before putting them in self storage, follow these steps:

  • All hatch covers should be removed and the inside thoroughly cleaned to ensure that no moisture is trapped.
  • To prevent mold and mildew from forming inside a kayak, the float plugs should be removed.
  • Use cockpit coverings or a permeable sheet to cover the interior of the vessel to keep it clean while allowing air circulation.
  • Canoes and plastic kayaks should be stored with their hulls up, but composite kayaks may be stored on their sides or upside down.
  • Avoid storing them on the ground at all costs to avoid creating a pressure point wherever they make contact. Use a rack to hang them and distribute the weight properly to prevent warping.

Inflatable Summer Toys

Some pool toys and floats have weird shapes that make it hard to find a good way to store them. Here are some suggestions for stowing away your pool equipment.

  • Always deflate your inflatables to the lowest possible level before putting them away, since any residual air might act as a moisture trap.
  • Avoid scratches and rips by making sure everything is dry and clear of debris.
  • Spread a small coating of cornstarch or talcum powder over the goods before putting them in plastic to prevent them from clinging to one another.
  • Tightly folding or rolling may cause tension on the fabric and seams, ruining the toy for the next season. Often, you won’t realize the toy is destroyed until you spend an hour attempting to blow it up.
Patio Furniture and Grill

You’ve spent the last few months having barbecues on the weekends for your friends and neighbors, who have enjoyed sitting in your patio chairs while you cooked outside. However, after summer is done, you’ll want to store your barbecue and outdoor furnishings somewhere secure. Before you decide to store anything yourself, consider the following:

Grill

  • Disconnect the propane tank from your barbecue and keep it in a secure location on your property. You can’t keep flammables in a storage unit
  • Remove any debris and oil from the grill grates before using. You may want to have the grill nice and hot before you start scraping.
  • After cleaning your grill, put some rust preventer on the burners and grates. Finally, cover it with a custom-made cover to protect it from the elements..

Patio Furniture

  • Cleaning wooden furniture is as easy as giving it a quick spray with the garden hose and maybe some oil soap. Don’t bother putting it away until it’s entirely dried.
  • Rust and grime may be easily removed by wiping down and scrubbing metal furniture. It is possible to stop future rust damage by using sealants.
  • You may remove any dust or grime from your other belongings by shaking them out or by washing them in the washing machine.

Your house may soon become too small to store all of your summer gear, in which case you may want to look into a self-storage facility. It’s the quickest, least expensive, and least disruptive method to add square footage on the spot, for as long or short a time as you need it. If you’re wondering how much room you’ll need for storage, click on this Storage Unit Size Guide.

Top 10 Tips for Self Storage Unit Organization

If you’ve ever used a self storage unit for your personal or business belongings, you’ve probably read a few hundred articles advising on the best way to organize your space. They all have value, but everyone’s needs are different and  there’s no perfect system. Here are our tips for self storage unit organization.

Your goals should be to:

  • safely store your possessions, 
  • maximize your space, and  
  • be able to easily locate your items when you need them.

A common sense approach based on the following suggestions and your unique needs will streamline your packing and storing process.

Plastic storage containers.

 

Best Tips for Self Storage Unit Organization

Tip 1: Create a master inventory list, and categorize your items. Categories can include seasonal clothing, furniture, appliances, seasonal décor, electronics and items you use regularly. This method will enable you to estimate the amount of space and the number of bins and boxes that you’ll need. Check the Trusted Self Storage Size Guide to help you determine the size unit that will work best for you.

Pro Tip: Jot down the replacement value of each item as well as serial/model numbers of electronics and appliances. If you ever have to file an insurance claim, you can check your master inventory list.

 

Tip: 2: Label all of your boxes, and list the contents of each box. Label your boxes by room and list the contents on each label. There will be multiple boxes for each room, and it’s almost impossible to recall what each one contains. You don’t want to have to open every box to find one sweater or a pair of shoes.

Pro Tip: Label your boxes on the top and on the side so that the list is easily visible when you’re searching for an item. Be sure to number each box. These numbers should then be added to the items on your master list. 

 

Tip 3: When packing your boxes, fill them. Don’t leave boxes partially empty. Fill up the entire box, placing a few heavy items on the bottom and filling to capacity with lighter items. This way, you’ll avoid crushing your fragile items.

Pro Tip: Try to choose one size box or container for most, if not all, of your items. With boxes of the same size it’s much easier to stack efficiently and maximize your space.

 

Tip 4: Cover the floor. The floors in a self storage unit are concrete, which can cause condensation in extreme temperatures and humidity. Even with a climate-controlled unit you should cover the floor with plastic tarps for extra protection.

Pro Tip: Wood pallets make a good floor cover and keep bugs from gathering under your boxes and containers.

 

Tip 5: Disassemble large furniture. Tables, headboards, bookcases and any other large  pieces should be disassembled to maximize storage space. These items should be stored in an upright position at the back of the unit.

Pro Tip: Place all screws, nails, and anything needed to reassemble the furniture in a small, sealable plastic bag that is attached to that specific piece of furniture.

 

Tip 6: Store electronics carefully. Today’s electronics aren’t typically packed as one single piece. They are easily damaged and should be packed and sealed to prevent damage and deterioration from dust and pests. For more information check 15 Genius Ways to Store Electronics.

Pro Tip: Use your phone or tablet to take a picture of the connections so that you’ll have no trouble when it’s time to get them up and running.

 

Tip 7: Use your vertical space. Don’t forget about using the vertical space in your storage unit. Store items upright and stack boxes as high as safely possible. If you’re concerned about stability, you can use sturdy shelving to hold your heavy and cumbersome containers and other items. Shelving toward the front of your unit can hold frequently-used items.

Pro Tip: Consider shelving on wheels so that you can easily move it around your space.

 

Tip 8: Leave an aisle. By the time you’re packed up and ready to start moving items into your unit, don’t be in such a hurry that you forgot to conveniently organize everything. Leave an aisle down the middle so that you can more easily view and access your belongings. 

Pro Tip: Be sure that the labeled side of your containers and boxes is facing the aisle.

 

Tip 9: Place frequently used items toward the front. Keep in mind that you will use some items more frequently than others. Your large appliances and furniture should be placed in the back of your unit, but things like holiday decorations, seasonal clothing and important documents should be placed in an easily accessible spot near the front.

Pro Tip: For even more convenience, pack frequently used items in see-through containers.

 

Tip 10: Make a map of your unit. Make a map of your stored boxes and items, place it on a clipboard, and hang it in a visible location in your unit. There’s no need to get too technical; a hand drawn sketch will work. This will make it easy to find the items that are “buried” in the back.

Pro Tip: Remember to keep this map up-to-date as you add and remove items from your unit, and take a photo of it so you don’t have to worry if it is misplaced.

 

Final Thoughts
At first glance, these tasks seem like a lot of trouble, but the huge amount of time you’ll save over the years makes the effort more than worth it. When the day arrives that you’re looking for that heavy sweater or Thanksgiving platter, you’ll find your item with ease.

Defeat the Disorder With The Four-Box Decluttering Method

Do you have a decluttering method? Most people want to live in a neat and tidy home; but, unless you live alone, that’s probably not possible. Even if you do live by yourself, it is highly unlikely that you live in a clutter-free environment. Papers that you no longer need, craft supplies that you no longer use, and clothing that you no longer wear, seem to multiply overnight.

The best way to keep this mess from driving you crazy is to find an organizational strategy that works for you. With everything from the Kon-Mari Method to the 30-Day Decluttering Challenge, all the way to the 460 decluttering challenge ideas on Pinterest, there has to be something that will motivate you to rein in the disorder.

Another solution for the clutter is self storage. Before you begin the four-box decluttering method, rent a convenient self storage unit to hold the overflow. Trusted Self Storage has plenty of sizes and types that will fit your needs and your budget. Check our website for details.

The Four Box Decluttering Method: Explained

A simple strategy like the four-box decluttering method is sure to get you motivated to get rid of that troublesome trash and defeat the disorder.

Start your Decluttering Method: Collect and Label Four Boxes

Woman labeling packing boxes.

 

(1) The Discard Box

This box is for items that are beyond repair and not even worth donating. The pot with the missing handle that you’ve been meaning to replace since last year or the iron with the frayed cord that you’re afraid to use need to go. Ask yourself why you’re keeping these things. What value could they possibly be to you or anyone else? Both items are undoubtedly very old or they wouldn’t be in poor condition. They belong in the trash.

(2) The Donate Box

This is the box to fill with items that are still usable and worthy of donating. Don’t use it as a catch-all for damaged goods that you want to get rid of but don’t want to discard. Be considerate of what other people can use. Stained clothing, broken appliances, and overused kitchen implements belong in the trash.

(3) The Keep Box

These items are things that you use on a daily or weekly basis and simply need to be put away. If you find a “keep” item in an area that you’re decluttering, move it to its proper place. If you really don’t have designated space for these items, think about whether you really need them or find a storage solution that works. With so many storage options on Amazon, you shouldn’t have any trouble creating spaces for your belongings.

(4) The Storage Box

This box is perfect for items that you cannot part with but don’t use regularly. For example, seasonal clothing and holiday decor go into this box. After you’ve collected all of your self storage items, pack them in labeled plastic bins or containers and move them to that self storage unit you’ve already rented.

Stick to One Area at a Time

Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to tackle the entire house in one day. Start with one room at a time. If the room is too large or cluttered, start with one section of the room. Evaluate each item individually, focusing on exactly where it fits into your life. You don’t have to go full-on Marie Kondo and have a conversation with each piece, but you need to have a good idea of its importance in your life.

Ask Yourself Questions

The following questions can help you decide in which boxes to place your items.

  • How often do I use this item, and does it have a designated place in my home?
  • Do I have a sentimental or nostalgic attachment to this article?
  • If I didn’t currently own this item, would I miss it and would I want to purchase it again?
  • As Marie Kondo suggests, ask yourself if this item sparks joy.

If you answers leave you unsure, you may need to get yourself a “maybe” box. Keep your questionable items in this box for several months. If you haven’t used them or saved them in either the “keep” or “storage” box, they probably weren’t that important to you in the first place. Let them go.

Empty the Boxes and Repeat the Process

When one of the boxes is full, it’s time to empty all of the boxes before returning to the decluttering area.

  • Trash goes into a bag and out to the trash can.
  • Items to be donated should be placed in your car so that they are ready to be dropped off at the charity of your choice.
  • Items for your self storage unit should be sorted into separate labeled containers and moved as soon as possible. It’s a good idea to designate a specific day each week to get these items to the storage facility. You don’t want more piles of clutter interfering with the process.
  • Items that your keeping should be immediately put away in their designated locations. Don’t skip this step or you’ll resume the cycle of creating clutter.

When you’re ready, find a new area in your home and start the process again. It will take some time to organize your entire home, but it will be more than worth it.

Final Thoughts

Whether you use this method or one of the hundreds of other decluttering options, you’re doing yourself and your family the favor of creating a neat, clean home. Nothing’s perfect, but without the chaos of lost keys, misplaced paperwork, and disappearing shoes, your days will be less hectic and more productive.

Minimalist Ideas for 2022 New Year’s Resolutions: Self Storage Can Help

Minimalism is nothing new. It’s been around for a while but didn’t become mainstream until the 20th century. It’s not for everyone, but there are people who crave the simplicity of this type of life and like the idea of “less is more.” Here at Trusted, we have compiled our minimalist ideas for 2022.

One thing to keep in mind is that the minimalist lifestyle means different things to different people. It’s about more than getting rid of “things.”  “Minimalism is the intentional choice to live with less,” Stephanie Seferian, the host of The Sustainable Minimalists podcast, explains. “For example, while I keep my home and life clutter-free, I apply minimalism to my social calendar too as I find joy in doing less. The result is more free time to do the things I truly love with the people I love being around.”

In theory, getting rid of things that you don’t need and never use along with committing to fewer social obligations sounds great. Oftentimes, though, that is easier said than done, especially if you have a family.  As with anything, it’s all about balance, and you have to find yours. 

In any case, whether you’re all in with the minimalistic approach or you just want to simplify your lifestyle a bit, here are a few New Year’s resolutions (or maybe we should call them goals) to get you started. 

Minimalist Ideas for 2022 New Year’s Resolutions

Keep your resolutions simple and achievable. You can make big lifestyle changes with small, actionable goals.

Person writing in journal.

 

Lease a Self Storage Unit

Before you begin using these resolutions, the one action that will help no matter how you approach the New Year is leasing a self storage unit. At Trusted Self Storage, we have a variety of shapes and sizes of self storage units that will be the perfect fit for your decluttering needs. There are no rules. You don’t have to dispose of even one item before you give yourself time to think about what you need in your life and what you don’t. Take your time and revisit your items when you’ve made a decision. As long as your belongings are in a convenient, secure self storage unit, you have no worries and you can focus on a less complicated life.

Be Mindful With Decluttering

Minimalism is not about having a race to see who can get rid of the most stuff, and it’s not about lowering your standards or mindlessly discarding things because you’re on a decluttering high. The best thing for you to do is approach decluttering mindfully. Think about what you truly don’t use and what you might need in the future. Give some thought to whom you’re donating your belongings. Contrary to the Kon-Mari method, everything in your life doesn’t have to spark joy to be useful. 

Be Intentional With Your Purchases

How do you become an intentional shopper?

When you’re considering a purchase, ask yourself the following questions

  • How long do you have to work to pay for this item?
  • Instead of instant gratification, can you possibly wait until it’s on sale?
  • If this item isn’t on sale, would you still pay the full price?

If you do this regularly, you’ll find that there are some things you’ll stop buying for good.

Understand Your Spending Habits

A good way to get to know your spending habits is with a no-spend challenge. You can do it for a month, a week, or even just a weekend. If you want to take a deep dive into your spending, try it for a year. This challenge, of course, does not include necessities like food and utilities. We’re talking about travel, clothing, dining out, shoes, and the like. For detailed challenge rules, read 10 Tips to Crush Your Challenge and Save More Money.

Declutter Your Workspace

Nothing makes it harder to begin a task than looking at your workspace and feeling overwhelmed with documents, useless supplies, and dirty coffee cups. Clean and reorganize your desk and then move on to the rest of your workspace. A fresh start will not only declutter your space but your mind, and you’ll be recharged, effective, and efficient.

Make Self-Care a Priority

The New Year is a new beginning and an opportune time to prioritize your mental and physical health. If you don’t take care of yourself, no one else is going to do it for you. You can’t move forward if you’re feeling fatigued or depressed. Incorporate a self-care routine into your daily activities. Start a regular exercise routine, even if it’s only taking a walk during your lunch break. If you have a hobby that you love, schedule it into your week. Don’t worry if one of your resolutions is to be more intentional with your spending. Self-care is a spending priority. You have to do the things that make you feel happy, and you have to love yourself before you can love others. Go and enjoy that spa day!

Takeaway

Minimalism isn’t solely about getting rid of everything in your life that doesn’t make you do happy dances. My washer and dryer don’t make me want to tap dance, but I certainly don’t want to find a stream and beat my clothes over rocks. Equally boring is my toaster, but I like toast on occasion. If I discarded everything in my home that doesn’t spark joy, the first thing to go would be my husband’s golf clubs. Well, they do make him happy, so I guess they can stay. What I’m getting at is that even the most committed minimalist should take a minute to think about how their life will be affected if they get rid of the wrong items. It’s not a race, it’s a journey.

Self Storage: A Cozy Home for Your Holiday Decorations

Yes, I know that you haven’t even gotten through the chaos of Christmas yet, but it’s never too early to think about where you’re going to keep those items safe until next year. You may be able to find a New Year’s special price on the perfect-sized storage unit for your needs. With month-to-month leasing, you won’t have to make a long-term commitment, and your treasures will be safe and protected.

As a matter of fact, we’ve gathered some tips and tricks to help you store your decorations and keep them in perfect condition for years to come. 

Give Your Holiday Decorations a Cozy Home

Before you start packing your decorations into either the very expensive storage containers from Target or Wayfair or the leftover egg cartons and disposable coffee cups from your garbage, you need to think about where you’re going to store these items. If you’re anything like me, you have enough decorations to transform the entire neighborhood into a Christmas wonderland. You need a solution, and you need it before the Christmas ornaments find a cold and dreary home in your garage, and your cars are stuck out in the driveway all year. 

What you need is a self-storage unit, preferably a convenient, secure, climate-controlled storage unit. Here at Trusted Self Storage, these units are available in a variety of sizes that are suitable for large or small Christmas trees and all of your other seasonal items. You can add pegboards to the walls for hanging your wreaths and garlands and shelving for plastic ornament boxes (or leftover egg cartons) and Christmas linens. With climate-controlled storage, you won’t find a pool of hardened wax that used to be a candle or a moldy piece of fabric that was once a treasured heirloom. 

Girls protecting packed items with bubblewrap.

 

Tips to Prepare Your Decorations for Their Temporary Home

Take Pictures 

Did you ever begin your Christmas decorating, suddenly realizing that you can’t remember which decorations you used on the mantel or which centerpiece you used on the dining room table? As you age, this will happen. Before you remove those decorations for storage, take pictures for future reference. Mobile devices make it so easy to take photos. Add a few selfies before you store them; memories of the bags under your eyes are precious.

Don’t Break the Ornaments

In many families, Christmas ornaments are irreplaceable treasures. They represent life events, travel, and tradition. Many were created with little hands out of construction paper, glue, and glitter. Some are given as special gifts. Fortunately, you can find endless options in boxes and containers made specifically to protect fragile ornaments. They’re available at Wayfair, Home Depot, and At Home, just to name a few. Remember to leave the hangers on the ornaments, so that you don’t have to make a trip to the store in the middle of next year’s decorating.

Keep Your Christmas Tree for a Lifetime

Even though artificial trees are quite durable, storing your tree in its original box is not the best idea. With each passing year, the box will deteriorate, making it prone to insect (and deranged squirrel) infestation, and the tree will not look as nice if it has to be jammed into the box and reshaped every year. There are several different tree storage container options that will protect your tree and keep it in great shape. Climate-controlled storage is perfect for keeping your tree in pristine condition. This is especially important if you have a frosted or flocked tree; they don’t do well in extreme temperatures. Actually, they make a mess at any temperature.

Maintain your Wreaths and Garlands

As with all your other Christmas paraphernalia, there are numerous options for wreath and garland storage. Look for sturdy containers that will preserve the shape of these items and protect any decorative bows and ornaments. They can also be hung from hooks on a pegboard in your storage unit. For extra protection, you can use bags specifically for wreaths and garlands or you can save money by using lightweight dry cleaning bags.

Keep Your Christmas Lights Untangled

Clark Griswold should not be your “go-to” example for Christmas light storage. Think “organization.”  The first thing you need to do is to dispose of any lights that are damaged or not working properly. Then, you need to avoid the tangled mess of previous years by wrapping your lights around storage reels, which can be found at the above-mentioned retail stores. When you’re finished organizing the lights, place them in a large plastic storage bin along with the necessary extension cords. Don’t forget to take pictures as a guide to next year’s light design.

Keep Your Christmas Linens Crisp and New Looking 

Be sure that your Christmas table linens, bed linens, and towels are clean prior to storage.  Stains can oxidize over time and be impossible to remove, so don’t be lazy and store them with wine and gravy stains. Don’t wrap linens in tissue, newsprint, or cardboard as these materials can release gasses that will turn your fabric yellow. Plastic can also damage the fabric, and hangars can cause creases that are hard to iron out. If you have the space, you can store these items on an extra shelf in your linen closet. A better option is a suitcase that you no longer use. Fill it with linens and keep it in a climate-controlled environment to prevent damage.

Don’t Let Your Candles Become Misshapen Globs of Wax

Wrap candles in old socks or cellophane to prevent scratching and color transfer.  Do not use plastic wrap or wax paper as these can stick to your candles. After you finish wrapping, store them in a box or crate, even your ornament storage boxes will work. Be sure that they are in a climate-controlled area self storage unit.  Unless, of course, you like misshapen globs of wax.

Organize 

It goes without saying that you should store your boxes strategically and with labels. Not only should each label show a detailed content list, but they should be numbered and stored in the order in which you want to open them. 

Takeaway

Storing your decorations the right way is tedious and time-consuming; but, when next year rolls around, you’ll be happy to find everything organized and in perfect condition, just as if Martha Steward and Marie Kondo worked together. Then, you can start the process over again. Merry Christmas!

How to Keep Your Bike in Top Condition in Self Storage

Biking or cycling is a fun and healthy hobby to enjoy during the warmer weather. It’s great exercise and it gets you outdoors to enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature. If you live in and around the city, biking can be a practical and money-saving way to get you to your favorite hot spots. On the other hand, for those who truly enjoy taking part in a sport, biking is more than transportation or exercise. It’s a passion. 

According to Statista, the number of cyclists/bike riders in the U.S. in 2017 was 47.5 million. As reported by the world economic forum, in America and globally, the COVID-19 pandemic suspended a number of public transport services, getting some citizens on their bikes. The end of 202o saw $6.9 billion spent on bicycles and accessories, and Q1 reports show that the trend is continuing, with Americans expected to spend $3.2 billion by year’s end.

Whatever the reason, many Americans are enjoying the trend. While you may be enjoying your bike during the warmer months, cold weather is right around the corner. It’s time to think about storage options to keep your bike free from damage or deterioration. The most practical and affordable method of keeping your bike safe and protected during the winter weather is a secure, affordable self storage facility.

 

Protect Your Bike in a Self Storage Unit

When you’re storing your bike for an extended period, look for a convenient, affordable self storage facility that has the amenities you need. Look for climate-controlled storage, a wide range of unit sizes, and plenty of security features. To get you started in the right direction read, How to Choose the Right Self Storage Facility for Your Needs as well as the following tips and suggestions.

Check the Bike Frame

Check your bike frame for cracks, and be sure that the frame is not bent. Look at the welded areas where the metal connects and examine the bottom bracket. These areas absorb the most stress when you’re biking and should be carefully checked. You wouldn’t want your bike to come apart while you’re enjoying a ride.

Clean Prior to Storing

Prior to storing your bike for an extended time, give it a thorough cleaning. Leftover dirt and grime will cause your bike frame to rust. Wipe down the frame, gears, and any other accessories on your bike. 

Remember to clean out any bags and empty and clean water bottles. You don’t want to attract pests with leftover munchies. You’ll be glad your bike is clean and ready to ride when the warm weather returns.

Inflate the Tires

Another important step that you don’t want to miss is properly inflating your tires. If possible, use a bike rack or hook to keep your tires above ground. Tires can deflate over time. If you leave the bicycle on the ground for an extended period, you may find flat spots if the tires have not been inflated during storage. The weight of the bike can warp or distort the rims and rubber of the tires. 

If you can’t use a bike rack, another good way to store your bicycle is by flipping it upside down. That way, the weight is on the handlebars and seat instead of the tires and rims.

Lubricate the Chains and Cables

Chains and cables accumulate a lot of dust and grime. To stop rust and keep your bike looking great, clean and lubricate the chains and cables. This will prevent corrosion on these sensitive components.

Remove Batteries

Any batteries should be removed prior to storing your bike. Remove batteries from backlights, headlights, and flashers. If you’re unable to remove batteries, make sure they’re fully charged before you put your bike in storage.

When It’s Time to Retrieve Your Bike From Storage

When you’re ready to take your bike out of storage, it can be tempting to get right on and take it for a spin. 

No matter where you’ve been storing your bike, it’s bound to be a little dusty. Rinse it with a hose and then lightly clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Be sure to thoroughly dry it. If you find any rusty spots, use WD-40 to clean them as well as possible. You’ll probably have to replace those pieces sooner or later.

Pump some air into the tires to make sure they are properly inflated and that no holes have developed. Look at the brakes and press the brake levers to be sure the pads are making contact with the rims.

Your bike may have dried out a bit while in storage. Lubricate all of the moving parts, and rub down the seat, pedals, and handlebars.

Wrapup

Don’t ruin your bike with improper storage methods. Take the time to maintain it properly and store it away from the elements. Safe, affordable self storage is the perfect solution to keep your bike in the best possible condition so that you can enjoy it for many years to come.

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