Your Extra Closet: Self Storage Tips

How to Choose the Right Storage Unit

You have many self storage options in Arkansas and Mississippi. So how do you choose a storage facility—and more specifically storage units—to trust to hold your belongings? Start by searching for self storage close to your home, work, business, or regular commutes. Convenience can make as much of a difference as a product and service. When searching for a storage solution, you must take into consideration your current needs and how they may change during the duration of the time in which you need storage. If you need to load large, bulky items, then a drive-up storage container may be your best option. However, if temperature regulation needs to be prioritized because you are storing sensitive or valuable belongings, then an indoor unit would better suit your needs. Be sure to do your research before making a decision! Visit Your Extra Closet at a location near you in Arkansas and Mississippi to start getting your items organized today. Your Extra Closet has 19 total storage facilities, in the greater Mississippi and Arkansas areas. Find storage units in Starkville, MS; Oxford, MS; Brookland, AR; Paragould, AR; and Jonesboro, AR. Read more about our storage facilities specific features, and use our storage calculator to figure out what size storage unit you should rent based on the items you need to store.

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Packing Tips: Boxing Up Your Belongings Efficiently & Safely

1. Pack Delicate Items with Care

To ensure that your items stay protected while in storage, take care of them as you’re packing them away. Items that are delicate will need more padding to keep them safe throughout transport. Pick up packing and moving supplies at any of our Your Extra Closet offices, and while you are there, talk with our storage experts to clear up any additional questions you may have before you start renting storage. It is important to understand the rules and expectations before renting storage. Check our Self Storage FAQ to see if we can answer your question instantly.

2. Don’t Squish Light Items: Store Heavy on the Bottom

To avoid crushed items, start packing your heavier belongings at the bottom of each box or storage container, then add lighter items on top.

3. Wipe Down Surfaces & Cover Large Items

Returned items will stay in better condition if they are washed before being stored. To prevent damage or bad smells, cover appliances, tools, and electronics with a cloth so dust doesn’t accumulate over time. Also make sure to get rid of water droplets and germs that could cause the item damage or bad smells later on.

4. Utilize Air-Tight Containers to Keep Out Moisture & Pests

Packing airtight is another way to avoid damage. It’s important to learn how to deal with pests and moisture from the start. Antiques, clothing, tech devices, and papers are a few examples of items that would do well in airtight storage containers.

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How to Organize Your Storage Unit

1. Design a Layout That Makes Sense for Your Needs and Space

For an organized storage unit, start by making a path down the center of your container. This will give you space to access items stored in any corner of the unit. Then begin grouping similar items together. For example, store winter clothes or large kitchen appliances in the same area. Doing things this way will help you find what you need fast and easily. Finally, keep your most important items near the entrance so they are always within reach.

2. Utilize Your Entire Storage Space

Use all the space you’re paying for by stacking items high. Also, consider installing shelving units if your storage facility allows it.

3. Don’t Store Perishables

So what can’t you store? Perishables like food will go bad quickly, and when they do, they will begin to attract pests. It is best to avoid this altogether by storing these items in your everyday storage space in your home or business. You also cannot store dangerous, flammable items or money. Check out a more complete list from Move.org.

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Vehicle Storage Tips

Long-term storage of a vehicle can save you a lot of space on your property, but it is not as simple as dropping it off and leaving it. Vehicles of all sizes require additional care to give it a better chance of running as smoothly as possible when you need it again. Get its oil changed if you are storing long-term, top off the gas tank to prevent moisture build-up, and add a fuel stabilizer. Then, clean it inside and out—any dirt there will only accumulate over time. Follow more of Edmund’s vehicle storage tips. A number of Your Extra Closet storage facilities offer safe and secure outdoor vehicle storage. Call or email any of the storage facilities today to learn more!

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