It’s mid-September, which means it’s still hot in many locations, but the cool weather is right around the corner. It’s time to think about retrieving those holiday decorations, cozy sweaters, and comforters. Perhaps you take a winter vacation and need to pick up your ski equipment and snow boards. Or, maybe you just want to remove and protect the clutter in your backyard so that you can free up space in the garage.

While you’re busy grabbing your winter items and storing those barbecue grills and pool toys, maybe you should think about a quick cleaning and winterizing of your storage unit. You’re probably thinking that it wasn’t so long ago that you gave you’re unit a good spring cleaning. That’s probably true, and since you were so diligent with your decluttering and reorganizing, winterizing should be easy. 

Winterizing Tips

• Get a Jump on Winter Storage

Finish this task while the weather is still warm and sunny. Loading and unloading is just not fun in chilly, rainy weather.

• Dry Your Summer Items

Be sure your summer items are completely dry prior to storing them. Pool toys and rafts should be completely drained and dry. Patio cushions should be clean and wrapped in sheets to maintain their condition, and patio furniture should be cleaned and thoroughly dried.

• Check for Water

While you’re moving items in and out of the unit, do a quick interior and exterior check for water leaks.

• Sweep Your Unit

Give your unit a quick sweep and dusting if necessary. If you did a thorough spring cleaning, there shouldn’t be much dust or debris.

• Check Containers

If your storage containers are damaged or cracking, low temperatures can cause further deterioration. Replace them.

• Wrap Your Belongings

You can’t add insulation to your storage unit, but you can protect your belongings from the cold by wrapping them securely in paper or fabric.

• Use a Weatherproof Lock

If you have an exterior unit, you might consider a weatherproof lock. You probably have a lock, but all locks are not the same. In extreme conditions some locks can freeze, not only causing a major inconvenience but compromising the security of the lock.

• Check Electronics

Be sure to remove batteries to prevent freezing and corrosion.

• Protect Your Vehicles

Winterizing is crucial to protect your vehicles. Not only your cars, but your boats and RVs need to be properly winterized to maintain their condition. Whether you’re using interior, covered, or uncovered storage, drain fluids, remove batteries, and clean thoroughly. Don’t forget protective covers, but avoid plastic because it traps moisture resulting in mold. A better choice is a natural fabric like wool or cotton.

If you have questions or concerns about getting your unit ready for winter, always ask your self-storage facility managers. They are always willing to help and address your concerns. Happy winter!