Self Storage: The Christmas Gift that Keeps on Giving

Self Storage: The Christmas Gift that Keeps on Giving

It’s finally the holidays! Anyone else excited? Yes, we certainly are! But we also know that when the holidays come around, many individuals are searching for the ideal present for their loved ones. Finding a present that you know they’ll both enjoy and put to good use may be a real challenge. Sending a fruit basket or buying the newest digital item as a present may seem like a good idea, but they will likely be forgotten or obsolete in a matter of weeks or months.

Self storage units are an excellent option to consider if you are looking for a unique gift idea, Almost everyone can benefit from extra space. Self storage facilities are useful all the time, not only during the holiday festivities.

Person handing keys to another person.

Is self storage a weird present?

In most people’s minds, the idea of giving a self storage unit as a present seems at first strange and maybe even impersonal. But that’s not the case when you weigh all the ways in which a self storage facility might improve one’s life. For example:

  1. This is a great way to help someone get rid of things they don’t need.
  2. It may inspire the person to finally have their house in tip-top condition.
  3. If people are looking for extra space for the goods they are acquiring, it may be a wonderful way to ease stress.

Why Self Storage Makes a Perfect Christmas Present

Nobody gives much thought to additional space until they really need it. Now that we’ve mentioned how a self storage unit can improve one’s life, here are some reasons why self storage makes a great holiday gift.

  1. Self Storage is Affordable
    A storage unit may be a useful and adaptable present. It is like giving someone a present that keeps on giving every single month. Your storage unit will never spoil, become old, or go out of style; it’s the perfect present. With a month-to-month lease, you decide how long you want to commit to the space. You have the option of selecting a period of one month, six months, or a full year.
  2. Self Storage is Flexible
    Self storage lockers are a godsend for stashing away a wide variety of belongings. Your loved one can put anything they want in their storage space: holiday decorations, extra furniture, or even art and old items. When relocating from one house to another, having a place to store unused furniture and other belongings is a huge benefit.
  3. Self Storage is Convenient
    You don’t even have to leave your home to give someone a self storage unit as a present! Finding the perfect self storage facilities and unit sizes can be done from the comfort of your own home. If you’d rather see the unit in person, however, you may schedule a tour at the facility.

Who Would Benefit from Receiving a Self Storage Unit as a Gift?

Who would appreciate the gift of self-storage? Practically anybody! A wife would appreciate having a fresh storage option for seasonal goods or cherished heirlooms that she no longer wants to display. Husbands will like having a dedicated storage spot for their fishing gear, which otherwise would be scattered throughout the garage.

Kids, too, will appreciate a place to store their outgrown toys temporarily while making way for newer ones; they’ll appreciate this even more when they realize they can easily retrieve these items when they want them.

As a Christmas gift, a self storage unit will be appreciated by just about everyone. The best part is that this is a gift that keeps on giving all year! How many other presents can do the same thing, right?

Final Thoughts
A self storage unit as a Christmas gift is not an insult even if the recipient has a messy house or an unruly hobby. It is simply providing them with something that they will use. Plus points if it helps them get rid of clutter and get things in order. So, if you’re looking for a thoughtful present for yourself or a loved one, consider self storage.

Buy Christmas Gifts Early and Hide Them in Self Storage

Hide Your Christmas Gifts

It’s amazing how quickly some responsibilities become apparent as Christmas approaches. It’s time to start planning what presents to give this year, which means it’s game time to decide how to go about finding those presents. Where to start? How about a good place to hide your Christmas gifts?

Sure, Christmas is a time for joy, but let’s face it: checking items off your Christmas shopping list can be a major source of stress. Black Friday, other pre-Christmas deals, online shops, and Christmas markets are all options for finding gifts. Anything from kid’s toys to more complex presents for relatives and friends. The stress of getting all your Christmas shopping done before the big day is nothing compared to the anxiety of keeping your presents secret until Christmas Eve.

The issue is, where on earth are you going to store it all? You may have a large enough spare room, but is it safe enough to keep prying eyes out? It’s not easy to keep a toddler from finding where a big, shiny gift is hidden.

The solution is actually pretty easy: just lease a self-storage facility and store your presents there until the situation is under control.

Christmas Gifts

Hide Your Christmas Gifts: Why Self Storage Makes Gift Giving Easy

 

1. Self Storage as Gift-Wrapping Center

Waiting until the kids are in bed is not necessary in order to get the gift wrapping done.
After all, it’s not simple to find a place in the house for all of the wrapping materials. Instead of squeezing everything into your house, renting a self storage unit is the best option. This makes the most sense if you plan on using the storage unit as a staging area for gift wrapping. After purchasing, there is no need to keep them wrapped for days. Get your gifts and then transport them to your storage facility. You may bring in your tape, wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons and set up a folding table if there’s room.

Keep the wrapped gifts in self storage until you’re ready to bring them back and put them beneath the tree. Your gift can be kept in storage until it’s time to surprise the recipient, which is especially helpful if it’s something large and awkward to wrap.

2. Self Storage as a Hideout for Your Presents

Holiday gift hiding may be a challenge when you’re trying to protect presents from curious little hands, curious dogs, or a nosy significant other. Some presents under the tree may be hidden with more ease than others. A Nintendo Switch, for example, is much more compact than a treadmill, so it’s easy to see why it might be more practical to hide.

It’s convenient to pick gifts up from a shop, transport them to your storage facility, and then leave them there before going home. The goods are now safely hidden from prying eyes. If you want to hide a brand-new Tesla or other expensive items until Christmas, you can’t go wrong by putting it in storage. If you rent a storage unit for a short time, you can rest easy knowing that your gifts won’t be found and opened before Christmas Eve.

3. Self Storage as a Secure Vault for Your Gifts

Since you’re keeping expensive gifts that you spent time selecting, the storage unit should have strong security measure in place. To make sure that any would-be burglars are met with many “blocks,” you should search for multiple “lock points.” Make sure you check for things like closed-circuit television and insurance, and that you visit the location and ask the personnel about safety precautions.

Getting a climate-controlled unit is recommended if you’re storing delicate or fragile items, particularly if you live in an area that has harsh winters. Conventional units are susceptible to damage from cold and dry weather. A climate-controlled space maintains a comfortable temperature and humidity level.

Renting a storage unit is the first step in creating the most fun and surprising holiday ever. As the big day draws near, your family and friends may start to worry about where you’ve stashed all the gifts. They will look for signs that gifts have been purchased and wrapped but will come up empty-handed. In the days leading up to Christmas, you may visit your storage facility, get your presents, and place them all under the tree in your living room, just like Santa Claus. All of your efforts will be worthwhile when you see the joy on your loved ones’ faces as they open their gifts on Christmas morning.

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.

Why You Don’t Stash Fireworks in Your Self Storage Unit

After a dismal and taxing 2020, Independence Day 2021 is going to be a momentous celebration for the USA!  Parades, picnics, and all kinds of special events will be in full force. It’s a given that people will be making memories and commemorating the joy of America’s freedoms with fireworks and sparklers. While you’re enjoying the festivities, please take safety precautions – not only with using but with storing your fireworks.

 

Family watching fireworks on 4th of July.

 

Please Don’t Store Your Fireworks in Your Storage Unit

When it’s time to pack up and store the patriotic decorations, sparklers, and fireworks for next year, be cautious. Please don’t stash your extra fireworks in your self storage unit. 

For starters, it’s against policy to store fireworks or any other type of explosive at most self storage facilities. The possibility of an explosion is too risky, not only to your personal valuables but to the possessions of other tenants. It also creates a serious hazard to any of the staff or visitors to the facility. It’s not worth risking serious injury or damage by storing fireworks or any other flammable materials in your unit.

If you’re curious, here is a complete list of items that you are not permitted to put in self storage:

  • Plants
  • Firearms and munitions
  • Food and pet food
  • Flammables, explosives, radioactive materials
  • Lead paint, asbestos, urea-formaldehyde, petroleum products, or methane
  • Medical waste
  • Stolen goods
  • Cash (not covered by insurance)

Your fireworks are considered explosives. If you have leftover fireworks that you need to store, check the following tips.

 

Tips for Storing Fireworks

These tips are not guaranteed, but they can help keep you and your family safe.

 

Tip 1: Depending on where you live, it may not be legal to store fireworks. You should check your city or county ordinances to verify that storing leftover fireworks is permitted.

Tip 2: High temperatures do not set fireworks off. It’s okay to store them in a hot, dry environment; it’s only the heat from a match or lighter that sets them off.

Tip 3: Keep those unused fireworks in a secure place away from your home and family. The best place is a locked shed that is far away from the house. And, don’t store them near ignitable, flammable materials like oil, gasoline, water heaters, or any kind of naked flames.

Tip 4: Don’t store them in cardboard boxes. Not only will these add fuel to the fire if there is a catastrophe, but cardboard will not protect fireworks from water. The best solution is a metal storage container. Be careful not to overpack the box and crush the lower layers, ruining the fireworks for later use. 

Tip 5: Do not tell your children where the fireworks are stored, and be sure that pets can’t get at them.

Tip 6: Keep a fire extinguisher near the fireworks storage area.

Tip 7: If fireworks get wet, they should be completely soaked and discarded. Fireworks cannot be dried out and used safely because they become unstable.

Tip 8: When fireworks have been stored in a manner that keeps them dry, the chemicals do not deteriorate or become unstable or dangerous. If no moisture gets into the packaging, fireworks can last 50 years and perform as if they were new. 

 

The main thing to remember is the safety of you and your family. Follow the above tips, and you shouldn’t have any problems.

 

Fun Fourth of July Facts

Now that we have the serious stuff out of the way, here is a bit of fourth of July trivia from The Old Farmer’s Almanac.

 

  • July 4, 1776: Thomas Jefferson noted in his “Weather Memorandum Book” that the weather was cloudy, the temperature 76ºF.
  • August 2, 1776:  Most people signed the Declaration of Independence. Only two men signed on July 4, 1776—John Hancock and Charles Thompson. 
  • July 4, 1826: Both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson—signers of the Declaration of Independence who each later became president—died on the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the declaration.
  • July 4, 1884: The Statue of Liberty was formally presented to the United States by the people of France.
  • July 4, 1911: It was a hot Fourth of July in New England. All-time state records were set in Nashua, New Hampshire (106°F), and Vernon, Vermont (105°F).
  • July 4, 1938: Four of July became a national holiday.

 

Have a joyful holiday, complete with fun times and treasured memories. But, be careful with those fireworks!

 

How To Prepare Your Boat for Both Summer and Winter Self Storage

Boating is the ultimate recreation for people who love the water and water sports. It’s fun, relaxing and an enjoyable family activity. However, boat maintenance and self storage takes time and energy. One of the biggest problems for boat owners, is properly storing their boat. Winter storage is critical for those living in a climate where temperatures fall below freezing.

On the other hand, storing a boat during the summer months can be important even if you’re using it only on weekends and holidays. Your boat can be permanently ruined if it’s stored improperly. Storing a boat correctly is not only necessary in the winter, but also during the summer.

Boat Storage Prep

Here are some tips to help you get your boat prepared for storage. Some extra work now will have your boat in pristine condition and waiting for you when your ready to enjoy the water.

Uncovered boat next to boat covered with tarp.

Get Your Boat Ready for Summer Self Storage

If you use your boat only sporadically during the summer, it should be stored properly when not in use. To keep your boat in the best condition and prevent mold and mildew, consider climate-controlled storage. You don’t want to incur damage or deterioration due to  high temperatures or humidity.

Here are some steps to consider for summer storage:

  • Keep the Trailer in Good Shape

The tires should be properly inflated, and check that the safety lights and wires are in good working condition.

  • Clean the Hull and Deck

Even though you’re not storing your boat for an entire season, you want it clean and free of trash and debris when you’re ready to use it again. Wash off the outside of the boat with a garden hose or sprayer.

  • Do a Quick Check for Damage

Check for any damage on the hull and motor. A small problem now that may lead to a large repair bill later can be corrected.

  • Be Sure Your Gear is Properly Stowed

All of your gear should be in good condition and correctly stored. Life jackets, fire extinguishers, first aid kits and flares should be checked for expiration dates and, if necessary, replaced.

  • Cover Your Boat

High temperatures and humidity are hard on a boat. When storing your boat during the summer, use a tough, plastic woven shade cover that will inhibit mold, rust, and fading.

 

Get Your Boat Ready for Winter Storage

It can be very costly to store your boat at the marina for the winter months or when you’re unable to use it for an extended period of time. Trying to store it at home is inconvenient and can be a security risk. It takes up space in your driveway or elsewhere on your property and is exposed to theft and vandalism.

A better solution would be to store your boat in a conventional storage unit that has sufficient space for your boat and trailer, or a secure outdoor parking area. Your jet skis, kayaks, and canoes can be stored right along with your boat. Storing with us is far less hassle for you and a safe, secure option for all your watercraft.

Follow these tips for safe winter storage:

  • Clean the Hull and Deck

You’ll be storing your boat for an entire season. You want it clean and free of last

summer’s trash when you’re ready to put it in the water next summer.

  • Add a Fuel Stabilizer and Fill the Tank

Condensation can form in an empty gas tank, causing corrosion or worse if the moisture

freezes. Fuel stabilizer will prevent this from happening and your fuel will be ready to go

when you are.

  • Change the Oil

Water or acids that have gotten into your oil can corrode the engine. Change the filter

and flush it out so that no water remains. Then, add new oil.

  • Refresh the Coolant System

Drain the current coolant, flush with water, and fill with fresh antifreeze. Make sure

you’ve diluted the antifreeze to specification. This will protect your engine from freezing

and corrosion.

  • Disconnect the Battery

Don’t allow your battery to drain over the winter. Disconnect it and top it off with

distilled water. Charge it periodically to make sure it’s ready to go when you hook it

back up to your boat.

  • Grease the Steering Mechanism

Grease the steering and control mechanisms so that they will be moving smoothly when

it’s time to take the boat out again.

  • Remove the Drive Belts

Before storing your boat, loosen or remove the drive belts. They may crack under the

stress of being kept under tension for long periods of time.

  • Maintain the Interior of Your Boat

If you have electronics in your boat, they are vulnerable to extreme cold and moisture.

Remove them prior to storage. Leather, canvas, and any other organic fabrics should be

removed to prevent mold and mildew. Empty the water tanks and run antifreeze through

the pipes.

  • Wash and Wax the Exterior

Cover the body of your boat with wax. This will prevent rust from corroding your boat’s

exterior and is particularly important if you are storing your boat outside.

  • Use A Cover

A cover is not merely an accessory, it is a necessity. A cover can be a significant investment, but it will protect your

boat from moisture, mold, fading, cracking and animals as well as being a theft deterrent.   

 

Here at Trusted Self Storage we can offer you a convenient, affordable, and secure facility to not only store, but protect your watercraft.  Any one of our friendly, knowledgeable staff will be happy to discuss your boat storage options.

 

Self Storage: How to Enjoy Packing Up the Christmas Decorations

Does the title of this blog trigger your interest? Are you eagerly awaiting the happy little secret to enjoying packing up those Christmas decorations? Sorry…I lied. There is nothing that makes this job enjoyable unless you can gather about 50 friends who love you and want to help. The chances of that happening are about the same as your Christmas mess becoming a Netflix episode of “Tidying Up With Marie Kondo.” 

Nobody enjoys this task. It’s tedious and lonely because no one wants to help. If you do coerce family members into helping, they suddenly remember a previous engagement or a contagious disease (Covid is perfect for this). Get used to it; it’s not going to change. Ask Alexa to play “the happiest songs for dismantling Christmas decor,” and get to it. 

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 new home in your garage and the 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 your other seasonal items. You can add pegboards to the walls for hanging your wreaths and garlands and shelving for plastic ornament boxes 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 the beautiful table cloth that grandma crocheted with her arthritic hands

Tips to Prepare Your Decorations for Their Temporary Home

Take Pictures of Your Decorations

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.

 

Be Careful with the Christmas 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 in Wayfair, Home Depot, and Target, 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 Looking New

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 cover them with a lightweight dry cleaning bag.

 

Keep Your Christmas Lights Untangled

Clark Griswold should not be your “go to” example for Christmas light storage or design. 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. 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 gases 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 in your storage unit. Keep in mind that these items should be stored in a climate-controlled environment to maintain their beauty and prevent further damage.

 

Candles Require Special Care

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

 

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 like Marie Kondo. Then, you can start the process over again. Happy Holidays!

 

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