Whether you use your self-storage unit for boat storage or for storing your family's clothing and furniture, spring cleaning offers a great way to get your unit organized and clean. Here are a few helpful ideas you can use as you get ready to clean out your storage unit.
Be Prepared To Declutter
Over time, you may find that you don't need all of the items in your self-storage unit. Go through your boxes and other possessions to see which ones you can part with. Have garbage bags ready for items that can't be sold or donated, and keep two sets of boxes ready for yard sale items and donations. Sort unwanted items into the boxes or garbage bags as appropriate. Once your unwanted items are removed, you can begin to rearrange the items in the storage unit to make more room for new items.
Freshen Up The Space
Combat musty smells by adding deodorizer or potpourri sachets to your storage unit. If you have clothing stored in wardrobe boxes, use cedar to help control odors and keep moths at bay. You can also use moisture absorbers, which can be found at your local hardware store, throughout the unit to control moisture. This can also help to combat musty smells. Put a moisture absorber in your boat and near upholstered furniture to also help prevent mold and mildew from forming due to damp conditions.
Replace Your Tarps
If you use canvas tarps to keep your furniture or boat from becoming dusty or dirty, you might want to replace them during your spring cleaning project. This can help to control the amount of dust that accumulates in your storage unit, which can also work to keep your items clean. Simply wash the tarps you have, or if you don't have a way to wash them, simply replace them with new ones.
Shake Off The Cobwebs
Bring in a shop vac to clean all of the cobwebs from the corners of your storage unit, and be sure to use the vacuum on the inside of dresser drawers, cabinets, and other large items. This can also help to remove dirt and dust from the storage unit. Sweep and vacuum the floors, and use paper towels or rags to wipe shelving units free from cobwebs and dust.
Talk to the management at your self-storage facility before you begin spring cleaning, as there may be days the facility has arranged for extra trash pickup to accommodate cleaning projects. This may make it easier to get rid of old and broken furniture or multiple bags of trash.