Have any questions? Call us at (956) 303-6873 or email us at manager@dclutterselfstorage.com

Storage Tips

Welcome to D-Clutter Self Storage! Here you’ll discover essential storage unit packing tips to effortlessly maximize storage space.

If you’re unsure how to organize a storage unit effectively, you’ve come to the right storage room experts! Whether you’re downsizing, decluttering, or storing seasonal items, our practical advice ensures you’ll make the most out of every square foot. We’ll share insights on arranging belongings strategically, choosing the right packing materials, and creating easy access paths.

With our guidance, you’ll quickly master the art of storage organization, and learn to make your experience stress-free and efficient. Let’s get started on your clutter-free journey today.

Gather Your Supplies

  • Estimate how many boxes and containers you’ll require.
  • Identify necessary packing materials, including markers and labels.
  • We offer high-quality packing and moving supplies and can assist you in selecting the right items.

Create an Inventory

  • Create an inventory list and keep copies in a safe place other than your self storage unit.
  • Identify which items you may need to access while they are in storage. These items should be placed near the front of the unit.

Prepare Your Space

  • Measure and estimate the collective packing size of the items you plan to store.
  • Use furniture pads or pallets, protecting your belongings and raising them above the floor.

Self Storage Packing Tips to Protect Your Belongings and Maximize Your Space

  • Boxes should be strong enough to hold 25-30 pounds (don’t overpack).
  • Account for extra space to provide ease of access.
  • Items you frequently use should be placed in the front of your unit. (You identified these items when you created your inventory list.)
  • Boxes that contain fragile or delicate items should be placed on top of boxes packed with heavier items.
  • Leave a pathway for easy access to important personal or business documents.
  • List contents on all four sides of boxes and seal tightly with good quality packing tape.
  • Storing flammable, hazardous, or combustible materials (paint, paint thinner, gasoline, or propane) is prohibited.
  • Drain fuel from lawnmowers, snowblowers, trimmers, or any other gasoline-powered equipment that you’re storing.
  • To keep unwanted pests out of your unit, don’t store perishable items.
  • Wrap large pictures and mirrors in cardboard, mark “FRAGILE,” and stack them end on end against a wall.
  • China, crystal, porcelain, and any other breakable items should be carefully wrapped in packing paper and/or bubble wrap and boxes should be marked “FRAGILE.” These boxes should be stacked on top of the heavier items.
  • Use empty dresser drawers to store linens and small items. Wrap valuable linens in acid-free paper to prevent staining or deterioration. Fragile items can be stored in drawers if wrapped properly.
  • To prevent accidental damage, place TVs and other electronics in the rear of your unit.
  • Stoves, refrigerators, washers, and dryers make excellent packing spaces for blankets, towels, bedding, table linens, and even heavy clothing.
  • Shovels, hoes, rakes, and hoses can be stored in clean, empty trash cans. If trans cans are empty, stack them inside each other.
  • Store sofas and love seats on end to save floor space.
  • Wrap cushions in plastic furniture covers and place them on top of sofas.
  • Cover everything with furniture covers or pads to prevent dust.
  • Don’t place sharp or heavy objects on upholstered or leather furniture.
  • Wrap furniture legs to prevent damage.
  • If you’re storing furniture that can be broken down, keep small parts in plastic bags and attach them to the item.
  • Break down tables that have removable legs to save space. Cover with furniture covers or pads to prevent damage.
  • Never cover or wrap wood furniture with plastic. It can leave a residue that causes permanent damage.
  • If you store mattresses on their sides, prop them up so that they stand straight. This will prevent them from bending and becoming out of shape and lumpy.
  • When you break down bed frames, keep small parts in a plastic bag and attach it to the frame.
  • Wipe metal items such as bikes, tables, and tools with machine oil to prevent rust and corrosion.

Create a Map for Easy Retrieval

Make a map of your stored boxes and items so that you can easily locate items that are “buried” in the back of your self storage unit.. Keep it on a digital device or place it on a clipboard, and hang it in a visible location in your unit. It doesn’t have to be perfect; a hand-drawn sketch will work.

If you still have questions or concerns, give us a call. The D-Clutter team wants your experience to be as pleasant as possible.