As colder weather approaches, you’ll likely need to make room in your apartment or dorm for large items such as coats, comforters, and blankets. To maximize the space in your closet, it’s wise to put out-of-season items into storage. Below are some tips to make the most of your unit.

How to Put Items in Storage for Winter

1. Clean Clothes Before Packing

Although you might already know which clothes need to go into the storage unit, it’s important to make sure they’re clean. Wash them and make sure they’re thoroughly dry before you put them into plastic storage boxes. Lingering moisture could promote mold growth, while cardboard boxes could trap humidity and cause odors to form. To prevent creases, roll the clothes instead of folding them.

2. Pack Cooking Equipment Carefully

If you spent most of spring and summer grilling on the patio of your off-campus apartment, it’s time to clean up the unit and put it away for the season. Scrape down the grills carefully to prevent odors from lingering inside your unit. Cover the grill thoroughly to prevent dust accumulation and to ensure that it’s ready for grilling season next year. Finally, never put a propane tank inside a self-storage unit, as they’re flammable hazards. Instead, store it in a dry place, such as the basement or garage.

3. Store Your Bike Properly

A bicycle you ride all over town goes virtually untouched during winter. But if you plan to put it into a unit during the off-season, make sure to turn it upside down to minimize any pressure on the tires. You’ll reduce the odds of air loss, and help them stay fresh for spring. Lubricate all the metal parts in advance as well to keep them limber and prevent them from freezing.
 

A storage unit is an excellent place to keep your belongings during wintertime. Whether you’re headed home for the holidays or need a safe place to keep everything while you switch from one apartment to another, trust the units at Student Storage Solutions in Rochester, NY, to keep your items safe. The facility will assist with everything from packing to moving to storing. Visit them online to learn more about their units or call (585) 232-3450.