Protect Your Winter Toys in Self Storage

Protect Your Winter Toys in Self Storage

Winter has been over for a few months. Don’t put off storing those winter toys so that they’re in top shape when you head to the slopes again next year. We have you covered. Whether you’re storing skis, snowboards, or snowmobiles, Trusted Self Storage has a wide variety of sizes and types of secure self storage units to protect your winter toys in self storage and ensure they remain in the best condition.

To avoid potential damage to your expensive equipment, there are factors you need to consider before placing your items in storage. We’ve compiled a few suggestions to help you prepare your winter gear for storage.

Protecting Skis and Snowboards

Remove the Dirt: Spray them down with a garden hose, trying not to force water into the bindings. Avoid degreasers or detergent as they can affect the binding lubricant. If there is a build-up of grease or pollen on the bases, use a soft cloth dipped in a little citrus solvent.

Check the Edges: Sharpen the edges of your skis and snowboards to remove the most obvious burrs and reduce the chance of rust. Warmer weather is a good time to have a base grind done to repair any edge damage incurred during the winter.

Wax the Bases: Hot wax the bases with an all temperature or softer warm-weather wax to protect them from oxidation. The wax should cover the edges to reduce the chances of rust.

Loosen the Binding Springs or Remove the Bindings: Skiers should loosen the DIN settings on both toe pieces and move the heel pieces into the ski position. This decreases tension in the springs to keep them in better condition. Snowboarders can remove their bindings or loosen the screws to reduce stress on inserts and prevent dimpling of the base.

Protect Them in Self Storage: A climate-controlled self storage unit with no sunlight is ideal for both skis and snowboards. To ensure that skis don’t fall over, strap them together at their natural meeting point and pad them.

Don’t Forget Your Boots: Pull the liners out of your boots and make sure everything is completely dry. Your next step is to buckle the boots loosely so that they hold their shape. Check heels and toes for wear and replace if necessary. If your snowboard boot laces are worn, replace them now so that they’re ready for the next season.

Snowboarding and skiing gear.

 

Protecting Snowmobiles

Clean and Wax the Exterior: Clean the exterior with warm, soapy water and a sponge; be sure not to forget to clean under the hood. Use a high-pressure washer to clean the track, runners and suspension. Once you’ve finished cleaning your vehicle, apply a coat of wax to protect it and make it easier to clean in the future.

Maintain the Fuel System: Before you decide whether to store your vehicle with a full tank of gas or not, be sure you know which type of fuel system you’re dealing with. For older models that use a carburetor system, drain the tank. For fuel-injected systems, store your snowmobile with a full tank of gas to reduce the risk of condensation getting into the fuel system. Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent corrosion.

Drain the Carburetor: To keep the fuel from evaporating and creating a damaging chalky residue, remove the carburetor float bowls and drain excess fuel.

Grease Lube Points and Chassis: Add grease to any point with a grease fitting. Use WD-40 or a similar lightweight oil for suspension rails, exhaust, and nuts, and avoid getting it on the clutch or belts.

Remove the Battery and Belt: As long as you’re storing your snowmobile in a climate-controlled storage unit, you can remove your battery and keep it in the unit away from direct light. You can either use a battery tender or trickle charge the battery. Remove the drive belt so that condensation won’t build between the belt and the clutch. Store the belt unrolled.

Raise It and Cover It: Ideally, you should store your snowmobile on a set of snowmobile dollies to keep it above the floor. To prevent rodents and other pests from making your vehicle a summer home, scatter dryer sheets around and stuff the muffler outlet, carburetor intake, cooling system intake, and outlet holes with steel wool. Finally, use a soft, lightweight, well fitted cover to prevent scratches or moisture build-up.

Summary

Now that you’ve read these guidelines, you have no more excuses. Get those winter toys prepared for storage in a safe, climate-controlled facility before summer rolls around. When you’re ready to use them again, they’ll be waiting for you in the same perfect condition as they were when you stored them.

Self Storage As An Option for Business Owners

With commercial office space becoming increasingly more expensive, small business owners are exploring other options. Working from home is becoming a popular alternative, and some business owners are looking at using self storage for business purposes.

In theory, using your self storage unit as an office or a workshop sounds like a great idea. Overhead is low and you can rent the right-sized space for your needs. Nevertheless, in most cases, using your storage unit for these purposes is not permitted.

Setting up your desk, laptop, and other office equipment isn’t generally a legal option. There are, however, some facilities that offer designated retail and office space available, enabling businesses to operate legally. These spaces are generally outfitted with restrooms and conference rooms. In some cases that may include parking for tenants as well as their customers. Here at Trusted Self Storage, a number of our facilities feature office space.

All things considered, traditional storage units, are very useful to business owners. It’s an inexpensive option for storing business supplies, office equipment, and inventory. Even important documents can be carefully packed and placed in your storage unit.

Self storage gives you the ability to scale your business. With flexible month-to-month lease terms, it’s easy to increase your space if your business is growing rapidly. On the other hand, if your business is seasonal or you have a temporary downturn, you can save money by decreasing your space for a short time. This kind of flexibility is extremely beneficial in managing day-to-day operations.

A Sensible Option: Self Storage for Business Owners

 

Woman opening the doors to her business.

You’re not permitted to conduct business inside a traditional storage unit. These spaces are limited to storage and order fulfillment only. For a complete description of what is permissible in your storage unit, be sure to refer to your lease, and don’t attempt any of the following activities inside your unit until you talk to the manager.

  • Meeting customers and conducting sales out of the unit.
  • Installing telephones, computers, or other office equipment and electronics inside the unit.
  • Adding wiring and electrical outlets beyond what is currently in the unit.
  • Operating power tools or other machinery in the unit.

As mentioned above, storage units can be advantageous to certain business owners. Here are a few examples of businesses that can benefit from using a self storage unit.

Examples of Self Storage for Business Owners

Landscapers or Contractors

Landscapers and contractors use items that are bulky and irregularly shaped. Lawnmowers, leaf blowers, spreaders, circular saws, wood, and drills take up a lot of room in a garage or trailer. Using a self storage unit for these items keeps them organized and out of your way. With 365-day access at most storage facilities, it’s easy to drop off and pick up on a convenient schedule.

Contractors have the added problem of heavy-duty vehicles like backhoes and huge trucks. Instead of appropriating the limited space in their business parking areas to these vehicles, they can store this equipment securely at the same facility where they store their tools and supplies. Moving these vehicles away from their business will upgrade their curb appeal and provide more parking space for customers.

Independent Publishers

Book dealers and independent publishers handle mountains of magazines, pamphlets, brochures, and books. A self-storage unit is a perfect place for an independent publisher or dealer to store inventory and supplies. To maintain books and printed materials in good condition, a climate-controlled storage unit is safer than a damp garage or the trunk of a car. If the publisher rents from a facility with delivery acceptance services, products can be directly shipped to the storage unit without the owner having to be present.

Service Professionals

Multiple storage units spread out across various locations can be an important convenience for service and maintenance professionals. For example, a cleaning service that has customers over a wide area would benefit from having supplies and equipment in convenient locations rather than having to drive to one central facility. Renting storage is more affordable for these businesses than larger commercial buildings.

Restaurants and Catering

These types of businesses deal with an overabundance of supplies and equipment. Spare china and glassware, tables and chairs for special events, linens, and appliances can use a lot of space. These businesses need to devote every square foot to cooking and dining in order to increase profits.

Retail and eCommerce

Whether a business is brick and mortar with limited space or a store that is entirely online, self storage is a perfect solution. Inventory, marketing materials, and supplies should be kept in a climate-controlled unit to prevent damage and deterioration.

Takeaway
Self storage is far more versatile than you would imagine. These are only a few of the businesses that could benefit from using a self storage unit, and there are many more. If you own a business that is taking over space in your home or your office, explore the self storage option today.

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 are Climate-and-Humidity-Controlled Self Storage Different

If you’re getting ready to store valuable or temperature-sensitive items, it’s a good idea to consider climate- and humidity-controlled self storage. Do you understand the difference between the two, or are you looking for advice on the benefits of these types of storage. Read the following information to learn more about humidity- and climate-controlled self storage.

Standard self storage units are sufficient for most household and business items, but your temperature-sensitive and irreplaceable goods need the added protection of climate- or humidity-controlled storage. 

If you collect valuable artwork or antiques or just want to store furniture, photographs, and electronics, you need climate-controlled self storage. The consistent temperatures of a climate-controlled storage unit will protect your belongings from damage and deterioration.

Another option to consider is humidity-controlled self storage.  Humidity-controlled storage adjusts the humidity of the air inside your space to maintain safe levels of moisture regardless of temperature fluctuations. This type of storage reduces the chances of mold, mildew, rust, and rot. 

Check out the following information so that you recognize the difference between climate- and humidity-controlled storage.

Mini storage units facility.

 

Climate- and Humidity-Controlled Storage: What’s the Difference

The phrase “climate control” is one of the most confusing subjects in the self-storage industry. Climate control should manage both temperature and humidity within a narrow range, but in some cases, only temperatures are controlled and humidity levels are ignored.

Climate-Controlled Storage

Climate-controlled storage is the more familiar of the two options. Climate-controlled storage units are typically kept between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit with a base humidity of 55 percent. There are no set industry standards for climate-controlled storage. Always ask facility operators for their specific temperature and climate-control standards. They should be able to explain what they do to maintain these standards and give you this information in writing.

  • Look for a facility that offers climate monitoring. The temperature and humidity should be continually monitored to verify that settings remain consistent. Ask the manager if they use generator backup in case of a lengthy power outage.
  • It’s not completely impossible, but it is rare to find climate control in a drive-up, outdoor unit. If this type of unit is advertised as climate-controlled, it’s more likely that it is simply heated or cooled to some degree. This is not true climate control.
  • Always read your rental agreement carefully. Storage facilities aren’t responsible for the items that you store. No facility will give you a “guarantee” that truly covers your belongings, so it’s up to you to insure your stored items. If you have a standard homeowners or renters insurance policy, it’s likely that you have off-premises coverage. Talk to your insurance agent to verify your coverage. Additionally, you can check to see whether your facility offers a tenant protection plan. This is not insurance, but another layer of protection for your belongings. Ask you facility manager for details.

To prevent damage and deterioration, items that should be kept in climate controlled storage include:

  • Antiques
  • Artwork
  • Documents
  • Electronics
  • Furniture
  • Photographs

Humidity Controlled Storage

Humidity control is a type of storage where the humidity is managed with an air conditioner or dehumidifier installed in the building. Generally, the humidity levels are kept around 55 percent, however, this varies based on the facility. The property manager should be happy to provide you with details.

Items that should be stored in a humidity-controlled unit include:

  • Clothing
  • Delicate Paper Items
  • Fabrics
  • Instruments
  • Metals
  • Wine

Which Option is the Best Fit for My Needs 

Self storage facilities will frequently offer both climate- and humidity-controlled units. These spaces use high-quality HVAC systems. The units are often advertised as climate-controlled storage. It’s important to ask the manager whether or not the space is both climate- and humidity-controlled. 

Having both climate- and humidity-controlled storage prevents a variety of problems. Mold, mildew, and rotting are can be stopped. Valuable artwork, musical instruments, and wine, as well as many of your prized possessions need the protection of both climate and humidity control.

When you’re trying to decide which type of storage is best for your needs, consider several factors. Are you storing valuable or sentimental items that are expensive, or even impossible, to replace? Are you looking at short- or long-term storage/ If you’ll be using self storage for only a month or two, the extra expense of temperature and humidity control may not be worth it. It’s also important to consider the climate of your storage location. 

Summary

Now that you have a better understanding of the similarities and differences of climate- and humidity-controlled storage, you can make an informed decision. In most cases, the manager of the facility can guide you in the right direction as far as the type of storage that suits your requirements.

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.

Self Storage for College Students – Keep it Safe

Every summer you move all of your college student’s furniture, books, clothes, and whatever junk they’ve accumulated to your garage, attic, basement, or spare bedroom. As exciting as it is for parents to have their kids home for the summer, the job of moving them is not fun. It’s tiring and time-consuming, and it would be nice to find a solution. 

You could build a home addition; but, given the cost of education, that’s probably not your best option. Nevertheless, there actually is a great solution; a self storage unit. A safe, secure, affordable storage unit will save time, space, and your mental health. 

 

Find the Right Self Storage Facility to Keep Your Students as Safe as Their Possessions

As shocking as this might sound, college students don’t always have the best judgment, and caution isn’t a priority. In their defense, they are super busy trying to fit some studying into their active social schedule. They just don’t have time to worry about safety and security – until something is lost or stolen. In that case, there’s a slight chance they may show some concern – and then, again, maybe not. It’s probably a good idea if you “help” them choose a storage facility.

You’ll be far more conscious of the security features and amenities of the facility than your student will. Find a safe, secure facility, not far from campus. You never know when he will decide to drive to his unit at 3:00 a.m. because he needs a book that hasn’t been opened in two months. Or she wants to wear the cute outfit that is in storage because she didn’t want her roommate to “borrow” it. A safe facility is a must.

College student with box of items.

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Following are some important features to look for when you’re searching for a self storage facility. 

Look for Layers of Security

  • A facility in a safe, convenient location
  • A clean and well-maintained facility
  • Well lit property
  • Perimeter fencing
  • Gates equipped with electronic access 
  • Twenty-four-hour video surveillance
  • An indoor unit with keypad access
  • On-site and/or resident managers
  • A disc or cylinder lock that is resistant to tampering
  • Do Not share gate access codes with friends

 

Be thoughtful when choosing a storage facility, and don’t worry. There are numerous safe, clean, and secure storage facilities with plenty of amenities. You won’t have trouble finding a good one. 

 

If you’re still not convinced that self storage is your best option, here are a few reasons that might sway your decision.

Why College Students Need Self Storage

  • Space: This is a big one. Dorm rooms are cramped. Self storage is a perfect solution for extra books and off-season clothing, as well as any other strange things your student may have accumulated. We prefer not to mention them.
  • Flexibility: Most self storage facilities offer flexible month-to-month leasing. You’ll be able to rent on your schedule without the hassle of a long-term commitment. 
  • Travel or Study Abroad: The opportunity to travel or study in a foreign country is incredible, but what do you do with all of your stuff while you’re away? Self storage comes to the rescue again. You can find a unit with enough or as little space as you need to accommodate all of the dorm room furniture and belongings.
  • Security: As we’ve already mentioned, college-age students can be careless. Any items that they don’t use regularly will be far more secure in a safely locked storage unit than in their dorm, apartment, or the trunk of their car. And, as far as summer, storing furniture and valuables at a storage facility provides a level of safety not found in a locked apartment that is abandoned until school starts again. 
  • Savings: The cost and inconvenience of moving your stuff to and from home between semesters and over the summer for four – to who knows how many – years will far exceed the cost of storage.
  • Fun: Instead of spending that extra time packing up and moving stuff back and forth every summer, have some quality family time. Spend a few days doing something together because your college kid will be too busy to spend much time with you for the remainder of the summer. 

 

Takeaway

College expenses and inconveniences increase with every passing year. Why not give yourself and your student some relief when it comes to the burden of yearly packing and moving. You’ve been your child’s housekeeper, chef, chauffeur, bank, and loving parent for a long time. Do you have to be their mover and packer, too? No, you don’t. Sit back, relax, and check your self storage options.

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