• Insurance, Packing Tips, and Other Information for First-Time Storage Renters

    If you’re struggling to find enough space in your Palo Alto home for all of your belongings, you might want to consider renting a storage unit. Self-storage is a terrific option for anybody who needs a safe, secure place to store their personal possessions. If you’re renting a storage unit for the first time, here’s some information you might want to know.

    You should buy insurance.

    As safe as self-storage is, it’s still important to insure your property to ensure that it stays safe. Along with insuring Storage for renters in Mountain View, CA your belongings, you should keep a thorough record of every item you keep in your storage unit. If possible, you might also want to try to take a photograph of everything you store. That way, you’ll be fully prepared against any eventuality.

    You shouldn’t overstuff your unit.

    While you may be able to fit a lot of your belongings into your storage unit, you should be careful to keep it organized and accessible. Leave a path for yourself to walk through your unit so that you’ll have easy access to your items at all times. Also, make sure that there is at least some space between your boxes of items and your unit’s walls. Always turn your unit’s light on as soon as you enter to ensure that you don’t stumble over anything.

    You should make the most of your space.

    First-time storage unit renters may wonder how they can get the most use out of their space. It’s important to put some thought into where you put all of your items. If you have a large item such as a couch, for example, you won’t be using your space efficiently if you simply place it in the center of your unit. Rather, you’ll want to place it at the back, where it will take up as little space as possible, so you can fill the rest of your unit with your other items.

  • Tips for Safely Storing Photos

    Photo storage unit in Mountain View, CA If you’re like most people, your photographs are the one possession you can’t imagine throwing away. After all, every photograph you take represents a memory. Even the most innocuous photos you own will be fun to look back on some day. If you’re in need of a secure place to keep your photo albums and your other cherished belongings, renting a unit at a storage facility in Mountain View is an excellent option. Here are some additional tips for keeping your precious photographs safe as the years go by:

    Make sure you have the right storage environment.

    You don’t want your beloved photographs to be marred by mold, moisture, insects, or other common problems. You also don’t want your photographs to fade because they’re exposed to sunlight. That means that you should make sure to keep your photos in a cool, dark, dry, and well-ventilated space such as a secure storage unit.

    Buy the right containers for your photos.

    You don’t want to just stack your photographs in cardboard boxes—you want to find an appropriate way to store them long-term. Photo albums with sheet protectors are a good option for keeping your photos safe while still making them easy to access. Once you’re ready to put your albums in storage, wrap them in tissue paper for extra security. If you prefer to use boxes, use water-resistant plastic ones, and lay your photos flat rather than on end.

    Keep your photographs well-organized.

    If you have a lot of photographs to store, you may want to put them in some kind of order. Otherwise, you may find yourself combing through hundreds of photos when you want to find a specific one. Label your photo albums in a way that you will find useful—whether by date, subject, or event—and make sure that the labels are clear and easy to read.

  • Simple Strategies for Decluttering

    If you’re like many people, you’ve probably got a lot more clutter around your house than you would prefer. One problem you may have run into is that you have a lot of items that you don’t want to throw out, but that you don’t have a place for in your home. A good option is to rent a storage unit in Palo Alto where you can store important items that you don’t need to use on a regular basis. However, it can also be rewarding to go through your belongings from time to time and get rid of anything that you truly don’t need. If you need some decluttering tips, check out this helpful video.

  • Learn the Dos and Don’ts of Helping Your Child Pack for College

    Student storage facility in Mountain View, CA 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.

  • How Should I Store My Furniture?

    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.

    Furniture storing units in Mountview, CA

  • Moving and Storage with Kids

    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.

  • 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.

  • What Should I Do with a Deceased Family Member’s Belongings?

    The death of a loved one can be a very painful time for any family member. After your family member passes away, you may also be faced with the difficult task of sorting through his or her belongings. By renting a storage unit in Mountain View , you can safely contain your deceased family member’s belongings until you are emotionally ready to start the sorting process. A self storage company can offer you temporary storage during your time of grief. Read on for an overview of some strategies for going through a deceased family member’s belongings.

    Storage Facilities For Deceased Family Members in Mountain View, CA

    Hold On to Important Items

    When you are going through your loved one’s personal belongings, you are sure to find many items that you want to keep. Some of these items may be valuable objects, while others may be small keepsakes that remind you of cherished memories. Allowing yourself to hang on to important items may provide you with a sense of comfort and condolence as you are processing difficult emotions.

    Do Not Be Afraid to Let Go

    While some of your loved one’s belongings may be emotionally or financially valuable, others may not be important enough to save. It is important to allow yourself to let go of certain items that are no longer useful or valuable. Before you decide to toss out an item, you can give your other family members a chance to decide whether or not they would like to keep it.

    Consider a Storage Unit Rental

    From making funeral preparations to mourning your loved one’s passing, the time after a family member’s death can be both emotionally and physically draining. A storage unit rental will provide you with the space that you need to hold on to all of your loved one’s stuff until you are ready to start the sorting process. You can rest assured that all of the belongings will be safe and protected once they have entered the storage unit.

  • Your Room-by-Room Guide to Home Decluttering

    Decluttering your home may seem like an impossible endeavor at times, but it can be easily done when broken down into manageable parts. If you declutter one room or space at a time, then you will soon find your home is cleaner and more spacious than you thought possible. Take advantage of different storage options in Mountain View —such as a storage unit or storage shed rental—to help you declutter your home room by room. Here is a quick guide to help you declutter your home. home - storage

    The Bathrooms

    Your bathrooms are one of the most important areas of your home to declutter, because you can save a great amount of time during the morning and evening. It is important to regularly update your medications, skin care products, and toiletries. Decluttering these items can significantly reduce the clutter and free up space in your bathrooms.

    The Closets

    Your closets naturally become a place for extra storage, such as clothing, shoes, toys, bedding, and rarely-used items. Closets are an important area to declutter, because you often find clothing that no longer fits, has become damaged, or was forgotten about. You can also separate and store seasonal clothing in your storage unit to create more space.

    The Office

    Your office can quickly become a dumping ground for old files, mail, and random pieces of paper clutter. Decluttering the office might take a little more time than other areas of your home, because you will want to inspect each piece of paper before recycling or shredding it. Once you clear off your desks, place filing boxes in your storage unit, and declutter your working space, however, then you have more freedom to finish your projects.

    The Garage

    You may find yourself storing tools, recreational items, and large appliances in your garage. These items can quickly overtake your garage space and prevent you from parking your vehicles. Choose other storage options, such as a storage shed rental, to store these tools and appliances until you need them.

  • Maximizing Storage Space at Home

    It is important to maximize all of your storage options in Palo Alto. You can store large furniture, artwork, and moving boxes in your storage unit. However, you can also utilize certain storage options around your home. Continue reading to learn some easy storage options around your house.

    As seen in this “Clean My Space” video, you can use stacking shelves in your kitchen and bathroom cabinets to maximize all of your storage space in these areas. You can also hang up adhesive hooks in your utility spaces and around the house to store common household tools, such as a broom and step stool. Consider hanging shoe storage options to hold extra shoes, jewelry, and clothing accessories as well.

  • 5 Easy Ways to Reduce Household Clutter

    Some people don’t even realize that they have a clutter problem until they handle it, and a storage unit in Mountain View can be of help. There are a few other ways you can keep your home neat, clean, and organized, and the steps aren’t difficult or expensive. Check out this video for 5 easy ways to reduce household clutter.

    Everything you own can contribute to clutter in one way or another, so think about what you need and what you don’t. Try to pay attention to what clothes you wear and what you don’t wear by turning the hangers backwards until you wear a given garment, and give the clothing you leave alone to someone else. Set aside a bin for important mail that you have to file, and recycle the rest. You should also consider what you use the most in your utensil drawer and organize its contents accordingly.

  • Smart Tips for Stress-Free Moving

    When you are moving into a new house or storage unit, it is important to keep some essential moving tips in mind. In this video, you will take a look at some methods that can be used to reduce stress during a move. Before you start the moving process, you will want to take the time to create a detailed list for all of your moving tasks. A storage unit in Mountain View can provide you with additional moving tips .

    After you have carefully sorted and packed all of your stuff, you will be ready to begin the physical part of the move. A facility that offers storage shed rental may be able to provide you with a moving truck that will allow you to easily transport your belongings into your storage unit.

  • Packing Picture Frames for Storage

    When packing your picture frames for temporary storage in Mountain View, there is a right way to keep them protected. Picture frames should be moved and stored in boxes specifically meant to hold these items in self-storage. This will ensure that they are properly protected while they set in your storage unit .

    Watch the video for the right way to pack your picture frames in a frame box. Set your picture in the middle of several sheets of packing paper. Fold the paper around the frame, like you would if you were wrapping a present. Tape the sides down, and label the paper. Stuff paper into the frame box to rest on the bottom, and slowly slide the wrapped frame into the box. Stuff more paper into the top of the box, and tape it shut. Label the box so it does not get lost in the storage unit.

  • What Shouldn’t You Pack for Storage?

    When you are organizing your belongings so that they can be placed in a temporary storage unit in Mountain View, it is important to make sure that you sort out items that should not be stored. While the vast majority of items will do great in a storage unit, there are certain materials and objects that may not be appropriate for placement in your storage unit facility.

    Live animals should never be placed in storage under any circumstances. Additionally, hazardous chemicals or explosive items are also not appropriate for a storage shed rental. If you are planning on storing any food items, you may want to set aside any products that are perishable. When food is left in a storage unit, it will quickly go bad. Finally, toxic waste products, such as asbestos or lead paint, should be safely discarded instead of stored. A company offering storage rental options can answer your questions about the dos and don’ts of self storage.

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  • Putting Extra Handbags in Storage

    If you have a large number of handbags and you are running out of storage room for them in your home, you should consider using a self-storage unit to keep them safe. Watch this video to see how to pack your handbags before placing them into a self-storage unit serving Palo Alto.

    Prior to packing a handbag and putting it into a self-storage unit, you should make sure that it’s completely empty. Your handbag could be in storage for years, so you don’t want to have a bottle of water or a tube of lipstick ruin it while it’s in storage. You should also wrap it in a dust bag to keep it free from dirt and debris. By renting space at a high quality self-storage facility and packing your handbags properly, you can keep them looking like new for years to come.

  • How to Stage Your Home for Sale

    When you are selling your home, you want to make potential homebuyers feel like it could be their home when they walk through it. In order to make this possible, you should stage your home by taking any personal possessions you have in your house and putting them into a storage unit. Independence Storage offers affordable storage units near Mountain View that are perfect for helping homeowners stage their homes.

    As soon as you make the decision to sell your home, you should walk through it with boxes and put any items that are personal to you and your family inside of them. From photos to knick-knacks that you have accumulated over the years, you want to declutter your home as much as you can. You can then take those boxes and place them into a storage unit until your home has been sold. Staging your home like this will usually help you sell your home quicker, and it will also allow you to get a jump start on packing for your move. When you trust Independence Storage with your possessions, you can rest easy knowing you have a secure storage facility on your side.

    storage unit mountain view

  • The History of Self-Storage

     

    Renting a self-storage unit in Palo Alto is a great way to store items you want to hold on to, but just don’t have the room for at home. There are many reasons to consider renting a self-storage unit. Many people make use of storage facilities to store furniture, family possessions, and seasonal items that are only used a small portion of the year. Storage unit rental is an easy way to transition during a move, especially when downsizing homes. Having a storage unit in a secure storage facility means you can be assured that your belongings are safely stored. Even though many people take advantage of all the conveniences self-storage has to offer, not everyone knows the history behind self-storage. To learn more about how self-storage units have become commonplace for many people, continue reading. Antique goods storage facility in Mountview, CA

    Origins of Self-Storage

    While it is difficult to provide concrete confirmation to support this theory, there is actually some evidence to suggest that self-storage dates all the way back to ancient China. Artifacts that date back thousands of years indicate that the Chinese used clay pots as storage vessels and that these storage pots were all kept in one location. Of course, it is hard to say how exactly these storage units were used.

    Foundation of Modern Self-Storage

    Beginning in the late 1800s, different businesses pioneered the concept of moving household items locally and long distances, which also led to the storage of personal items in warehouses and other facilities. However, self-storage units as they have come to be known today originated in Texas in the 1960s. These were the first self-storage units to feature garage-style doors and could be accessed individually by the owner. This is when the idea of self-storage facilities gained popularity.

    Self-Storage Today

    From the 1960s to today, the number of self-storage facilities steadily increased. Eventually, demand for more facilities led to an influx of self-storage facilities across the United States. Today, storage units offer state-of-the-art technology in security and 24-hour monitoring, as well as features such as temperature control and different sized units to meet any need.

     

  • How to Safely Pack Your Stemware

    After you’ve found the perfect storage unit rental near Mountain View, you need to start packing the belongings that you want to move to the storage facility . You must take special care when packing glassware to prevent it from breaking while you’re moving it or while it’s in the storage unit. The best type of box to use for storing stemware in a self-storage unit is a cell box.

    Watch this video to learn how to make your own cell box to use for your stemware before bringing it to a secure storage facility. A cell box will protect your stemware during your move, and prevent it from becoming damaged in your storage unit.

  • Color Coding Your Storage Boxes

    If you’re packing up boxes to move them into a storage unit near Mountain View , you can color code your boxes to make it easier to find and retrieve your belongings from your self-storage unit in the future! Develop a color-coding system before you begin packing and be consistent when using it. Be sure to write down your color-coding system to make sure that you remember it later.

    Watch this video for more information about how color-coding your storage boxes will help you when moving belongings into a secure storage facility. You’ll see a demonstration of this useful system from beginning to end so you can keep it in mind when preparing items for your self-storage unit.

    Color Coding Your Moving Boxes