More Motivation, Less Distraction: How To Pack For Temporary Storage

Published on: 17 August 2021 Last Updated on: 18 August 2021

You’re among one of the thousands of Americans who find themselves faced with packing for temporary storage. You’re not alone… Maybe you’re staging your home for a quicker sale, making room for a home office or a temporary classroom amid the Pandemic, or desire the peace of mind that comes from a space that is free of clutter.

With so many changes in the worldwide landscape, self-storage has become an asset to homeowners and apartment dwellers. Temporary storage offers flexibility while creating room in your home and free space in your mind.

All of those distractions not only lead to lower productivity but also lead to feelings of overwhelm that disempower us from reaching our goals. Feeling encumbered by stuff is a growing trend since so many of us are faced with how many things we actually have during a shelter in place! The good news is that by utilizing temporary storage, you don’t have to wait for a bigger home to create that spacious feeling.

Whether you’re packing for temporary storage due to a transition in your personal life, or just want to free up some space in your home in you home, it can feel overwhelming to do the research necessary to begin the process.

How To Pack For Temporary Storage?

Here is a full-step guide to pack for temporary storage. read the points below to know everything about it in detail. Clearing some space in your home would also help you concentrate on doing something meaningful to your life.

Step 1: Assess the space you have

Create a flow in your home. Your things should fit neatly into the space you have. Although it may be tough to decide what you need, storing things offsite means that your stuff is not gone forever!

Get Rid of the clutter! Clutter can be overwhelming to deal with when starting to pack your belongings for storage. Once it’s out of the way, it makes the packing process so much easier. Even a few hours of decluttering can make things run a lot smoother. Try getting the family involved, and make it a game!

Step 2: Categorize & Inventory

Making lists as you categorize your items for temporary storage will make it easier for you to find them as you need them. As you gather items from each category, make a list, or take a photo of what you pack in each box. Label your boxes with a number, and mark your photograph or list with the same number for a visual index. Having a list and documentation is also an asset in the event that an unfortunate or unexpected event should occur and you need to file an insurance claim.

Things you use seasonally

Your surfboard, your kid’s inflatable pool, or your Bermuda shorts won’t be of much use when it’s snowing outside! Group all seasonal items by season, including decorations, clothing, and footwear together. When these items are packed together, and labeled, it’s so simple to swap out a few boxes at the change of season.

Sentimental Items You Don’t Need Right Away

High School Yearbooks, Stacks of your kid’s artwork, and other items that have value but are rarely used in daily life can be prepared for temporary storage, so you can access them when you need them!

Things You Need, Just Not Right Now

Heirloom furniture, boxes of books, or clothes -you’re saving for the next baby can all be stored off-site!

Step 3: Gather Materials and Pack

Following your inventory, pack items of each category together following these instructions for the safekeeping of your items.

When packing, it is important to consider that life changes quickly, and although you are packing for temporary storage, you may enjoy the spaciousness this brings and decide to keep your items packed away longer than 3-4 months! Packing items to be stored indefinitely not only safeguards your items but can offer you peace of mind in the event that plans change. Since things often take longer than expected, you can rest assured knowing that your valuable items are safe.

Be sure to use sturdy boxes, and always, always make sure the bottom is taped securely shut! Don’t overpack boxes, and make sure boxes can be comfortably lifted and moved. Pack lighter items on the top so they do not crush the contents beneath them. Fill any empty space in the box so it does not collapse.

Furniture

Clean each piece of furniture, removing any dust, debris, or food remnants. Condition any wood or leather items, and be sure to vacuum all upholstery.

Disassemble any furniture. Often the assembly instructions are long gone, so it is helpful to take photos of each step along the way, documenting hardware as you go. When it comes time to reassemble, you can review your photos in reverse, making reassembly a breeze!

Use a drop cloth, or moving blankets, wrap your items carefully for transport and storage. While bubble wrap is useful for protecting mirrors and glass, avoid using plastic coverings directly on your furniture. Plastic can trap moisture, which can cause wood to warp and upholstery to mold or mildew. Use only white drop cloths to cover wood or upholstery, as the dyes can bleed in humid environments leading to discoloration of your furniture.

Electronics

Remove any dust or debris from the item using a dry cloth. If you are storing an electronic device that stores data, be sure to back up any important information before packing it away.

Secure packing of electronics is so important! In the event of any bumps or drops, you can be at ease knowing your electronics are secure in their packaging. Remove all cords, and wind them into a circle, securing with a tie.

If possible, pack electronic items in their original packaging. If that is long gone, use a box slightly larger than your item, and create a shock-absorbing buffer firmly around the item using packing peanuts or styrofoam. Avoid using any plastics that will trap moisture, and be sure to include several silica packs to absorb any humidity.

Always keep your electronics upright. Mark an arrow on the box with the correct direction to ensure that your item is stored and transported safely.

Once your device is placed securely in the box, you can place the corresponding cords on top of the packing, and tape your box closed securely.

Clothing & Specialty Worn Items

Books, Papers, and Photographs

Since mold is a common issue when storing books, and papers, it’s recommended to ensure they are totally dry. If you live in a humid climate. Paper objects can be stored in smaller, opaque plastic totes to ensure they are kept free from moisture and light, and rodents.

Pack larger books lying flat, and store smaller books upright, as you would on your bookshelf. Never store a book on its spine, as it can cause damage to the structural integrity of the book and damage it.

Protect your photographs by storing them in an archival album before storing to ensure your photos will be around for generations. To store larger photographs, carefully place them between layers of cardboard, and lie flat.

Instruments, Art, and Other Delicate Objects

To properly store delicate objects, it is important to have a facility tha is climate controlled, even for temporary storage. Make sure all packing is secure, keeping packing materials out of direct contact with any painted areas, wood accents, or delicate features.

You May Also Like: Small Kitchen Storage Ideas

Step 4: Finding A Storage Space

It can be difficult to conceptualize how much storage space you actually need. Many self-storage websites offer guides that can help you visualize how your things will fit in the space. Some storage units are multi-level, so be sure to ask about accessibility if you need a space that is on the ground level.

If you are storing any sensitive items like instruments, electronics, or antiques, be sure to rent a climate-controlled unit.

When people think of storage, the image that comes to mind is often a traditional storage facility. While traditional storage is an excellent option for many, there are alternatives that can offer some flexibility, convenience, or some sizable savings. Maybe you have a spare vehicle that never gets used sitting in your garage. Consider storing your vehicle, renting extra space from someone in your neighborhood, or asking a family member or friend to store belongings for you.

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Why Installing A Carport At Your Home Is A Good Idea?

For many people, installing a carport proved to be a remarkable life decision. It serves as an encouragement to go for your dream of owning a car. These dynamic structures are available in various sizes, styles, and materials and give you full liberty to choose the most suitable one. Owing to their robustness and durability, steel carports at Wholesales Direct are one of the most popular choices. These ports adequate utilization of space, protection for your car, and also offer several other compelling benefits. Here we take a look at the most promising advantages of adding a carport to your house. i. Protection for vehicles A car is one of the most valued possession for many people. You often have to save for years to be able to own one. That makes it too precious to be parked on the roadside. Your car at the roadside is open to accidents and more alluring to burglars. Also, it has to take the heat from the weather elements. A carport protects your vehicles from theft, heavy rain, scorching sun, strong winds, hail, and theft. It also makes it easier to unload your shopping as it is within your house premises and under a shed. ii. Inexpensive alternative to garage Installation of carports costs much lesser than building a standard garage, just a fraction in many cases. It also comes in a plethora of options in varying materials, styles, and sizes, that allow you to choose the most cost-effective one. Based on your budget you can choose a flat roof or a gabled one. You can also pick tiles, laser lite sheeting, or galvanized steel as the material depending on your pocket. Also read: Top Roofing Tips iii. Can top any type of flooring Carports mostly focus on providing a robust roof and are do not require any specific type of flooring. You can install them on any kind of floor including grass and even unfinished dirt. You can also choose a finished floor type such as cement, rocks, gravel, etc. based on your budget. iv. Great customization options Carport customization is easy and has boundless possibilities. You can choose the roof type that harmonizes with the roof of your house. You can also paint the frame with the same colors as that of your home outdoor. These simple structures can blend with any setting and can elevate the impact of the overall theme. v. Can be used for different purposes A carport is an extension to your house with a synchronizing roof over your head. These structures are versatile and can be used for several purposes. You can create a small entertainment space, or host a barbeque with your close friends and family. You can take these sheds a step ahead by installing sidewalls that provide greater protection and more opportunities with the same space. Attractive features for sellers or renters If you are planning to put up your house on the selling or renting lists, a carport can draw several good prospects instantly. Additional covered space is something that not all homes offer which gives your property a competitive edge. With multiple interested buyers and tenants in line, you can also negotiate for a higher price for your property. Bonus for you: Trying to shed your garden! Then consider the best materials to do that. Click on the link and reach out. Read Also: How To Install Artificial Grass In Your Garden – Installation Guide Step By Step What Is the Fastest Growing Plant On Earth? Garden Edging for Beginners

How to Maintain Your Garden Railings?

When it comes to property maintenance, it’s not uncommon to overlook garden railings, whether they are made of wood, iron or steel. They are outdoor fixtures that are often regarded as unessential and not necessitating care. To many, nothing significant changes if they are damaged or if they become structurally weakened. This way of thinking shouldn’t be the case, though. Railings in the garden are not only installed as decorative outdoor fixtures. Treat them as fences: Just like fences, you have to make sure that their structural integrity is maintained. They may not be there to provide security, but it’s important to make sure that they are as sturdy as they should be. Railings are installed for different reasons. For one, they could be used as protection for plants from pets or people who may unwittingly step on small plants. They will not be able to serve this purpose if they are weakened. On the other hand, railings also serve as occasional support structures for those who walk around the garden. If you lose your balance while strolling around, you will likely hold on to the railing if you see one. If the rail breaks with the slightest of pressure, it will aggravate accidents. Aside from not being able to support your weight when you lean on them, they may expose some sharp parts as they break or bend. These sharp pieces can result in wounds. Maintaining wooden railings: For garden railings made of wood, remove the vines that climb on them. These vines can hasten the disintegration of wood as it keeps moisture and prevents the sun from drying the wood. They can also serve as a hiding place for vermin. If the paint has already faded or peeled off, be sure to do a new paint job. Paint does not only improve the appearance of wooden rails. It also helps protect them from the elements. Maintaining steel or iron railings: One of the most important steps for garden railing maintenance is cleaning. Make sure nothing unwanted is stuck to the rails not only to keep them looking good but also to prevent damage. You’ll be surprised how the fecal matter of birds or the nesting of insects can speed up the wear and tear of your railings. Don’t let weeds cover the rails. Locate their origin, so they don’t quickly crawl back up again. Be on the lookout for rust. If corrosion develops, it means your coat of paint protection has been scratched. Scrape the rust off and repaint the affected portion. Examine the rest of your railings to see if there are other parts that could use a new layer of protective coating. If you use lawn trimmers or grass cutters, realise that the repeated strikes against your railing’s lower sections can become a starting point for severe damage. Strive to make your railings last long. They may not be an essential part of your property, but you spent good money on them. You may not feel like you lose anything if they are taken away, but those railings in your garden are there for a reason. Read Also: 5 Tips To Keeping Animals Away From Your Garden 5 Summer Garden Maintenance Tips And Tactics You Have To Know

How to Find the Best Wholesale Kitchen Cabinets

Living with lots of bills and an average income means having to economize wherever you can. Prices seem to go up faster than seasons change, and adopting some savvy skills is sure to lighten your load. Installing new kitchen cabinets can easily be the most significant expense when redoing a kitchen, so we've assembled some top tips for saving money the next time you reach for the plastic. How to Find the Best Wholesale Kitchen Cabinets: 1. Shop Around: Don’t always buy the first thing you see. If you’re in the market for new kitchen cabinets to impress guests at your next dinner party, compare prices wherever possible. You’d be surprised at the options that are available from online retailers. You could easily save a pretty penny by shopping online. 2. Discount Is Your Friend: Black Friday sales and wholesale discounts are wonderful ways to take advantage of good deals by planning well ahead. Things like wholesale kitchen cabinets can be a cost-effective way of changing the entire dynamic of an existing kitchen. Every cent adds up and saving a little bit here and there could yield a handsome saving at the end of the day. Many retailers also offer a friendly reward system that allows customers to accumulate credit for later use. 3. Type: There is an assortment of different kitchen cabinets available for sale. Some have tekta glass doors, some have doors that are patterned, and some have no doors at all. Keep in mind what type of image you are trying to end up with and remember that different styles will vary in price. The door-less variety of wholesale kitchen cabinets are usually more cost-effective and can have the effect of making the kitchen appear more spacious, but generally suit only the most organized among us. 4. Functionality: Consider why it is that you are getting your cabinets in the first place. Do you need more storage area or are you looking to install cabinets to fill vacant space? Sometimes less is more, and cabinets should always compliment the rest of a kitchen. The cost of functionality also cannot be overstated. Anything can be functional on any budget with proper planning. 5. Appearance: While it's easy to feel uninspired when you've been looking at the same kitchen year after year, making some changes here and there could make space feel brand new. Old worn cabinets can be replaced at competitive prices or revitalized with a paint job, and sticking to one color saves on paint and makes for cheaper maintenance in the long-term. Keep in mind the fact that your kitchen tells a story, and all the separate parts of your kitchen should be harmonious. People tend to make big life changes reluctantly, but when those changes are budget-friendly and add value to your life, there's no need to remain stagnant. Online retailers like Wholesale kitchen Cabinets make the job that much easier for shoppers to make thrifty decisions, so taking the plunge and making steps towards your dream has never been easier. Read Also: 4 Tips For A Successful Home Renovation Top 4 Must-Have Appliances In Every Kitchen 7 Unique Kitchen Design Ideas That Your Family Will Enjoy

More Motivation, Less Distraction: How To Pack For Temporary Storage