If you need to rent storage space in Mountain View, you may be wondering how secure the facilities are. After all, if you are going to make that investment, you want to be able to enjoy total peace of mind that your personal belongings will not be disturbed. At Independence Storage, we work to provide the most secure environment for your property. We have a professional manager onsite during office hours 7 days a week, and the units are only reachable via electronic keypad access. If you’re looking for a self-storage facility where you can feel safe keeping even your most valuable possessions, you’ve come to the right place. We are a locally owned and operated facility that has been in business for nearly 2 decades, and our customers know they can trust us to keep their property safe. Our storage units are clean, convenient, and affordable for a wide range of budgets.

Every self-storage facility can be susceptible to pests, but you should still look for a reputable, clean storage rental company in Mountain View to improve your chances of keeping your belongings bug-free. After you rent the unit, set out a few mousetraps along the walls before you move your stuff inside. You could also put down a perimeter barrier of bug spray. Or, a natural pest control option is to sprinkle some diatomaceous earth around the storage unit.

As you listen to the featured video, you’ll learn that bugs are often repelled by the scent of peppermint. Soak some cotton balls in peppermint oil, and place them in and around the furniture you’re storing. This video lists a few other natural pest repellents you can use in your storage rental, such as vinegar, baking soda, and cayenne pepper.

In college dorms, storage options are few and far between. If your child is going to a college far away and won’t be able to come home frequently to visit (and do laundry), then he or she will need to bring more stuff than the local college kids. Ahead of the move-in date, research options for student storage units in Mountain View. Renting a small, temporary storage unit for your child will minimize future frustration, as your child won’t have to ask you to mail out packages of his or her stuff every few weeks.

Do limit your involvement in the packing process.

College is an exciting, giant step toward independence for your child. As tempting as it is to do everything for him or her, your child needs the opportunity to learn from mistakes. However, you can teach by example. Have your child call the appropriate office on campus to ask about rules regarding what can and can’t be taken to the residence halls. If your child has trouble with organization, sit down with him or her and develop a master list of things to pack . Sort the list into categories, such as clothing, bedding, personal care items, electronics, school supplies, and kitchen items.

Don’t hesitate to toss basic first aid items in a suitcase.

Even a well-organized teenager might not think to pack basic first aid items. Give your child the following items:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers/fever reducers
• Band-Aids
• Antibiotic ointment
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Cold pack

If your child takes prescription medications or uses an inhaler for asthma, he or she should have extras on hand. Make sure the closest pharmacy to the campus has your child’s prescriptions and health insurance information on file.

Do have your child get in touch with the roommate.

It isn’t necessary to furnish dorm rooms—they already have beds, dressers, and desks. However, there are a few larger items your child may want, such as a mini fridge, microwave, and TV. Have your child call the new roommate to find out if he or she was already planning on bringing these items. There won’t be enough space for duplicates. It’s common for campuses to connect students to rental services for mini fridges, many of which are combination units that also have an attached microwave. Your child and the roommate could rent a unit together.

Before you move your furniture to temporary storage in Mountain View, give each piece a thorough cleaning. Then, place the disassembled furniture pieces in a ventilated area to dry completely—this will discourage mold growth. Remember to label the pieces, so you’ll know how to reassemble them, and to put all hardware in sealed bags. If you have any breakable items, such as mirrors and lamps, or blunt objects like table legs, wrap these pieces in bubble wrap before putting them in the storage unit.

Try to avoid using plastic materials like bubble wrap on non-breakable items, as this can trap condensation and lead to mold growth. Instead, pad the furniture with blankets, drop cloths, or furniture pads. Next, rent a storage unit that’s large enough to leave a couple of clear zones in between items. This allows air circulation, and it also lets you access items in the back of the storage unit. Place the larger items at the back of the unit and the smaller items at the front.

If you decide to use temporary storage in Mountain View , having the right supplies will make it easy to organize your unit and access your items when you want to. Although some of the specific supplies you need will depend on what you’re putting in your storage unit, there are some items that everyone who uses self storage can benefit from having. As you prepare to move your items into storage, make sure you have the following supplies on-hand:

Boxes and Tape

Just as when you’re packing for a move, when you pack for self storage, you can’t rely on tattered, old boxes from the grocery store. You need strong boxes that will adequately protect your belongings and that won’t get crushed when they are stacked on each other. Likewise, you need packing tape rather than masking tape or the other types of tape you may have lying around your house. Strong tape offers an additional layer of protection and helps your boxes keep their shape. An alternative to boxes and tape is plastic storage containers. These containers can be helpful, but be sure not to overload them, so that they are easy to move.

Wooden Pallets

When you move your belongings into a storage unit, the best thing to do is to store them off the ground. You may choose to put shelves along the walls of the unit for some smaller items, but placing wooden pallets on the floor is also helpful. With wooden pallets, everything you put in your unit, no matter the size, will be off the ground, which allows air to circulate and discourages pests.

Furniture Covers

If you plan to store furniture, then you will need to cover it to protect it. Avoid using plastic furniture bags, which stifle airflow and allow odors and dampness to grow. Instead, use bubble wrap on parts of the furniture that are fragile, such as the legs and arms, and then use a cloth or sheet to cover the upholstery.

Using a storage unit for files can be a great solution for keeping your personal documents or for storing dwocuments for your business. Protecting those files properly will ensure that they’re always ready when you need them. If you’re renting a storage unit in Mountain View for your files, use these strategies for protecting them from damage.

Start by ensuring that your files are completely dry, and then pack them in airtight containers with hard outer shells. If you must store your documents in boxes, make sure that the boxes are strong and that you put the papers themselves in sleeve protectors. Use wooden pallets to keep the boxes off of the ground. Label all of your storage containers clearly with waterproof markers, so you can easily find the items you need. Don’t over-pack the containers, which can weaken them and make them more difficult to transport. Many people find it helpful to store their documents near the front of their storage units so that they are easy to access.

Decluttering your home can make it feel more organized and make it easier to relax when you’re there. The idea of tackling a big decluttering project can be overwhelming, however, which is why many people put it off. Fortunately, by knowing the dos and don’ts of getting the job done, the process can be easier than you think. To get started, you will need a storage unit in Mountain View and a plan. Here are the dos and don’ts you need to know to make your decluttering mission a success:

Do Start with One Room

To make the idea of decluttering more manageable, start with a single room. Get everything done in that room before moving on to your next space. One room is a realistic goal, and once you accomplish it, you’ll feel ready to repeat the process in the next room and the one after that. Before you know it, your whole house will be done. Be sure you finish a room before moving on. Leaving unfinished projects will only make things feel even more insurmountable.

Don’t Stock Up on Bins

You may eventually need boxes and storage bins to help you get organized, but don’t go out and buy those things before you actually start decluttering. Start sorting and cleaning, and then go buy storage containers once you know what you will really need. Stocking up on containers before you organize may seem like a fun way to get started, but you’ll only end up adding to your clutter rather than getting rid of it.

Do Use a Storage Unit

A storage unit is the perfect way to keep your home decluttered without having to make hard decisions about what you want to keep. Storing things like holiday decorations and seasonal sports equipment in your storage unit keeps extraneous stuff out of your house but puts it in easy reach when it is time to use it.

Moving with kids is a challenge, but with a few simple tips and the help of a temporary storage unit in Mountain View , you can make things a lot easier. Don’t overlook the importance of using a storage unit when you’re moving. It will keep clutter out of your way, help you streamline the moving process, and make it easier to stage your house for buyers.

Watch this video for tips on moving with kids. Keep a box of things you’ll need to grab quickly during the transition time on-hand, such as diapers, towels, and toilet paper. Have a few baskets on-hand so you can easily pick up toys and other clutter when a last-minute showing occurs. Anticipating your kids’ needs so that you’re ready to jump into action will take off a lot of pressure.

Storage units are ideal for storing your musical instruments when they are not in use. With a little attention to the way you store them, you can ensure that your instruments stay in top condition, without paying extra for a climate-controlled unit. If you plan on putting your instruments in a storage unit in Mountain View, keep this advice in mind.

Choose the Right Location in the Unit

When you’re packing your storage unit, it is best to keep instruments in the center of the unit. This protects them from any drafts that could come from the door or walls. Rather than storing them on the floor, put them on pallets or on shelving units. Keeping them off the ground will minimize the temperature changes the instruments are exposed to. If there are any open vents, make sure the air is not pointed directly at the instruments.

Pay Attention to Packing

All musical instruments should be stored in their original cases, if possible. For stringed instruments, release the tension on the strings before storing. This will prevent the strings from damaging the necks of the instruments as they naturally contract and expand in response to temperature changes. Piano strings do not need to be detuned, since the plate can withstand the pressure of string expansion. For instruments that are not in secure cases, such as pianos, wrap them with heavy pads. Store baby grand pianos on their sides, but keep upright pianos in their usual positions.

Take Care When Unpacking

The longer your instruments are stored, the more likely they are to have string tension issues or other changes that require careful handling. Unpack your instruments gently when you take them out of storage as they readjust to the current temperature. Give the instruments some time before you retune them. If you have instruments wrapped in padding, unwrap them carefully, especially if they are wood instruments. The veneer on wood can sometimes stick to padding, so removing it gently will protect it from peeling.

For storing your precious artwork or musical instruments, avail yourself of our climate-controlled storage facility. For further information contact us today!

Moving can become overwhelming quickly, but fortunately, there are hacks you can use to make your relocation just a little bit easier. Using temporary storage in Mountain View to get items out of your way is one thing you can do to take part of the stress out of moving. This video offers even more advice.

When a move is on the horizon, don’t wait until the last minute to get packing. Pack a little each day, and move packed boxes into your temporary storage unit as you go. Label all of your boxes, detailing exactly what is inside. This will help you find things easily in your storage unit and your new home. Don’t forget to pack a bag of essentials, so that you have easy access to a few changes of clothes and toiletries.

Self-storage in Mountain View can help you keep your home organized without having to give up possessions you love, from seasonal decorations to your book collection. However, getting the most from your storage unit means packing it the right way. Resist the urge to off-load boxes as quickly as possible when you’re moving into your unit, and instead, set it up so that you can easily access everything in the unit any time you need it. Protect your property and prevent headaches with these do’s and don’ts.

Do Prepare the Unit Before You Move In

If your book collection is taking over your home, but you can’t bring yourself to part with your tomes, then self-storage in Mountain View may be the answer. By packing your books in the right way, you can preserve them for years to come.

Before you pack up your books, wipe them clean of any dust or dirt, and remove any bookmarks, which are acidic and can cause damage. Use small cardboard boxes for packing, so that they can easily be moved. Choose high-quality boxes, not store throwaways, so that the boxes don’t break down over time. Pack books tightly, to prevent shifting, and keep similarly sized books together. Stack books, rather than sitting them on their sides, which can lead to spine damage. Label each box carefully, so you know where to find a book when you want it. It can help to organize books in some way, such as by genre or author, before packing them. In the storage unit, keep boxed books on free-standing shelves instead of on the floor, where they could attract pests.

A piano is a cherished item that may stay in your family for generations. However, there may come a time when your home does not have the space necessary to store this large musical instrument. As you are reviewing your storage options in Mountain View , consider renting a self storage unit that is large enough to house your piano. By placing your piano in a storage unit, you can rest assured that it is in a safe and secure location. To help you prepare for storing your musical instrument, here is a look at some piano storage tips.

Prevent Dust Accumulation

Dust can cause significant damage to your piano’s keys and other delicate components. When you are preparing to store your piano, you will need to take the steps that are necessary to prevent dust from accumulating within your instrument. A special cloth pad can be placed over the keys to keep dust away. Before you cover your piano, take the time to ensure that it has been dusted thoroughly.

Clean and Polish the Surface

Before you move your piano into your storage unit, you will need to take the time to make sure that is has been properly cleaned and polished. Placing a dirty piano in storage can lead to the deterioration of its exterior surfaces over time. A special piano polishing product can be used to clean, buff, and protect the body of your piano. Once you have taken the time to clean any dirt or residue from your piano, you will be ready to start the moving and packing process.

Use a Protective Covering

Pianos are very delicate, and they can become seriously damaged if they are not moved with the utmost care. If you are planning on placing your piano into storage, consider investing in a protective covering that will prevent bumps, scratches, and other forms of damage. Along with protecting your piano during the move, the cover can provide another layer of protection against dust and humidity.

As your baby develops, he or she will eventually start to grow out of his or her clothing. In this video, you will learn some essential tips that will help you to prepare your baby’s old clothes for self storage in Palo Alto. Before you place old baby clothes into storage, take the time to ensure that they are totally clean and dry. You may also want to label each box with the name and age of your child.

A storage rental company can provide you with the space that you need to house all of your child’s extra stuff. By renting a storage unit, you can hang onto your favorite clothes and sentimental items for future generations.

While you may not always be able to plan ahead for a move, you may want to think carefully about what time of year will be best for your transition. Whether you are moving into self storage or a new home, there are certain times of year that may be better to make a move. A storage rental company in Mountain View will be able to provide you with a quality storage unit, no matter what time of year you choose for your move.

As you are choosing a season for your upcoming move, consider factors such as school, typical weather conditions, and the housing market. If you are a parent, moving during the school year may place additional strain on your children. Additionally, moving during the coldest months of winter or the hottest days of summer may make your move more stressful. To ensure an easier move, consider moving during the early fall, when the weather is mild and your children have not yet returned to school.

When a loved one passes away, you may be faced with the difficult task of sorting through their belongings. If your friend or family member has a storage unit near Mountain View, you will need to contact the storage rental company as soon as possible. Your storage unit company will be able to provide you with a prorated rental discount while you take the time to sort through the items that were left in the unit. Let’s take a look at what happens to a storage unit after the renter dies.

The storage center is contacted.

After a renter passes away, their next of kin will oversee contacting the storage rental company. Ideally, the initial contact will occur within weeks or months of the person’s passing. When the storage rental company is contacted, they will be able to start making the necessary arrangements to either clear out the storage unit or renew the contract in the next of kin’s name.

Unit access is granted.

You or your family members will need to be provided with access to the deceased’s storage unit rental. If your loved one provided you with access before he or she passed away, you will be able to find the storage rental location and unit number easily. If your loved one did not pass on this information, you may have to obtain special access from the rental company.

Rent is prorated or refunded.

A storage rental company will typically work with you to provide you with a prorated refund of the rental cost. Rather than having to continue to make payments on the price of the storage unit rental, you can typically receive a refund for the time remaining on the rental. If you have questions about clearing out a storage unit rental after a loved one passes away, do not hesitate to call your local storage facility.

In today’s digital world, more and more entrepreneurs are choosing to start businesses that are based out of the home. Online commerce sties, such as Etsy, make it easy to promote and sell your homemade goods. By renting a storage unit in Palo Alto , you will be able to expand your inventory and preserve the items that you have listed for sale. If you are looking for a great way to increase your sales, consider a booking storage rental at a conventionally located self storage facility in your area. Here is an overview of how self-storage can help Etsy sellers grow their businesses.

Keep a Larger Inventory

As your Etsy business grows more and more popular, you may find that you start to have keeping up with demand. Rather than crowding your home or garage with your excess inventory, you can keep all of your products in a storage unit rental. Depending on the size of your rental, you will have no problem storing enough stock to keep your Etsy shop supplied for many months.

Maintain Better Organization

The increased storage space that is offered at a storage rental facility will also help you to keep your business more organized. When you are attempting to store inventory, invoices, and other business items at home, it may be difficult to remain organized in a smaller space. When you first move into your storage unit, create an organization system that works for you.

Prevent a Crowded House

When you run a business from home, you will be juggling work and family life in the same space. Rather than crowding your home with boxes or piles of merchandise, you can clear out your living areas by renting a storage unit. Keeping your items in a storage renal unit will help you to prevent overcrowding your house with your extra inventory. Your family members are sure to be thankful once your extra items have been moved into storage.

As the summer season winds to a close, many students are gearing up to move into their college dorm rooms. This video from Meredith Grace provides essential tips and tricks for saving space in a dorm room. If your closet is crowded with clothing, consider doubling up your hangers and packing them in storage bags. A storage unit in Mountain View can also provide you with additional space for your college items.

If your son or daughter is getting ready to move into the dorms, consider renting a student storage unit . A storage unit rental will provide your college student with plenty of storage space throughout the school year and during the summer season.