• Use These Tips for Storing Musical Instruments

    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 Storage facility for musical instruments in Mountain View, CA

    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!

  • Take Advantage of These Helpful Moving Hacks

    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.

  • Learn the Dos and Don’ts of Packing a Storage Unit

    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

    packing a storage unit

    Your storage unit is likely to be an empty shell, so prepare it for your belongings before you unpack. Pallets will keep your boxes off the floor, which helps to protect them from moisture. Adding freestanding shelves will make it easier to keep your items organized. Keep in mind that while plastic is a good protectant for the floor or for your shelves, it should never be used to wrap boxes, furniture, or other items. Doing so will prevent your items from breathing and trap moisture inside, where it can lead to mold and mildew.

    Don’t Pack Things That Could Cause Damage

    Food and plants should never be stored in a storage unit, even for a short amount of time. They can attract bugs and rodents, which put all your belongings and the belongings of everyone else who uses the storage facility at risk. Packing and storing anything that is flammable, such as oils, propane, fuel, and ammunition is not permitted. If you have gas-powered items to store, drain them of their fuel before putting them in storage.

    Do Label and Organize Your Boxes

    Every box that goes into storage should be clearly labeled with the exact contents. Place boxes at least one inch from the wall to allow for ventilation. Put boxes with items you will use on a regular basis, such as seasonal decorations, near the front of the unit, so you can access them easily.

  • How Should I Store My Books?

    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.

    How to Store Books by Independence Storage