Maximizing Storage Space

To ensure all of your belongings fit comfortably and safely in your self-storage unit, consider our recommendations for maximizing storage space:

Planning

Maximizing storage space takes a little planning. Like we mentioned on our Choosing Storage Unit Size page, you should write out an inventory of your items, grouping together those that will be stored together. Next, draw a rough map of your storage space, so you have a plan for where each item or stack of boxes will go. Plan to arrange any items you’ll want frequent access to toward the front of the unit, and leave room for a corridor so you can make your way to the back.

Furniture

Remove all flexible parts, like table and chair legs, and wrap them in bubble wrap to store elsewhere in the unit. Then use furniture covers to wrap larger pieces, including tables, couches and sofas. To take advantage of storage unit height, store these vertically on their ends. Stack chairs seat-on-top-of-seat, and wrap mirrors and large paintings in paper pads so they can also stand on their ends. For additional storage space, fill refrigerators, desk drawers and cabinets with smaller items.

Boxes

Use same-sized boxes, so you can stack them with ease. Fill boxes to capacity, because partially full boxes can collapse inward when stacked— use packing peanuts if necessary. Label boxes on all sides for easy identification, especially if you anticipate accessing them frequently. Seal tightly with packing tape to keep boxes sturdy, and to prevent dust from collecting inside. Always start your stacks with heavy boxes at the bottom, and add boxes filled with light or fragile items on top.

Home and Garden Equipment

Remove handles on tools such as lawnmowers. Drain all gasoline and/or remove any batteries before storing appliances.

Ventilation

For proper ventilation, leave some space between stacks and around the edges of your storage unit. Also consider using wardrobe boxes to hang your clothes, so the fabrics can breathe while in storage.

What Not to Store

Do not store flammable, perishable or combustible items.