A storage unit in Capitola, CA can be a great commodity all year long, but the way you use it might change throughout that duration. Your self storage rental can house your holiday decorations during the off season and keep your pool materials in top shape throughout the winter. You can even use your storage space to clear up some space at home by keeping certain types of clothing out of the house until they are needed. Feel free to read on for a closer look at some of the many seasonal uses for your storage space .

Holiday Decorations

A massive blow-up pumpkin decoration might make you the most popular homeowner on the block during the Halloween season, but what do you do when it’s time to take it down? Holiday decorations are inherently only relevant for short windows of time; when they are used out of season, they can be awkward and even annoying. When it comes time to deflate your balloons, pack up your Christmas lights, or take the Menorah down, consider using a storage space. You won’t need your decorations for about a year, so you might as well clear up some space in your home and bring your holiday materials to your storage unit.

Pool Materials

No matter where you live, you might not feel like going in the pool all year long. If this is the case, you should have a safe spot to store your pool materials. By renting out a storage space, you can rest assured that you have a place to store your pool materials without any worry of them becoming damaged. This goes for pool noodles, floats, skimmers, and even pool maintenance chemicals.

Seasonal Clothing

Most people change the way they dress along with the seasons, and this can lead to a great deal of lost closet space. Rather than filling up your walk-in with clothes you won’t need for another six months, try keeping your out-of-season clothing in your storage unit. This can also save you time when you want to quickly find something to wear before heading out.

Many people think their storage unit is completely protected from invading pests, but that may not be the case. Though your storage rental company in Santa Cruz, CA does what it can to protect storage units from pests, the first line of defense comes from the customers. There are a few different ways customers can safeguard their possessions from potential pests.

Choose Plastic over Cardboard

Certain pests, like rats and mice, love paper, wood, and fabric products as a means to make their nests. Their sharp teeth and claws can easily tear through cardboard, documents, and wooden furniture in a matter of minutes. To discourage rodents from getting into your stored possessions, pack as much as you can in hard plastic containers, and refrain from using cardboard boxes. It is very difficult for rodents to penetrate the hard plastic to reach your items inside. Store your clothes, blankets, documents, and anything else that is easily shredded in these hard containers.

Do Not Store Food or Plants

Many self-storage facilities have rules against storing live plants and food, even if they are kept in a sealed container. You should not store these items in your storage unit anyway, because they will attract pests. Rodents are constantly looking for food and items to make their nests. By storing food, even if it is temporary storage, rodents will smell it and come to your unit ready to set up their home. Ants will also be attracted to food products. Plants can attract cockroaches and other intrusive insects, so keep your plants out of your unit.

Check Your Possessions Before Going into Storage

You may have safeguarded your possessions against future pests, but do not forget to check for any current pests. Rodents, cockroaches, spiders, and other pests may stow away in your containers or nestle into your clothes or furniture, and you may not know until you find an infestation weeks later. Check your boxes, furniture, and everything going into your storage unit before placing it in the unit. You may be able to stop an infestation before it begins.

By working with JD Mini Storage, you will have the benefit of 35 years of experience as a storage rental company serving Santa Cruz, CA. Whether you need your storage unit short-term or long-term, you will find an experienced and knowledgeable staff dedicated to you and the safety of your possessions.

When you choose to rent a storage unit with JD Mini Storage, you will find easily accessed units that are all located on the ground. Each of these units is accessible 365 days a year and easily reached by a moving truck, if needed. Our storage rental company is dedicated to only storage, so our staff can give tenants and their possessions the attention they deserve. Storage managers live onsite to offer direct security for storage units, and the units are only accessible through individual electronic keypads. JD Mini Storage also offers customizable billing arrangements for the benefit of customers, whether they need a storage unit for the short-term or long-term.

When choosing your next storage unit near Capitola, CA, there are a few factors to consider so you can get the right space to hold your possessions. Determining the storage unit size you will need and how long you will need it are key decisions that will influence what will be the right storage space for you.

Choose the Correct Size

One of the most important factors when choosing the right storage unit is determining what you wish to store. Once you know what you want to store and how much space it will take, you can figure out the correct size storage unit you will need. Most units will have a uniform height, usually 10ft or higher, but the width and length may change. Many storage rental companies have a formula that can help customers determine the size unit they will need in relation to how much space their possessions normally take up. To be on the safe side, you should rent a unit that is larger than you think you will need. This will save you time, money, and frustration.

Decide on the Length of Time

Deciding on how long you will need your storage unit can influence a couple different aspects of your storage unit experience. Your billing arrangement with the storage rental company may change depending on your contract length. You may also wish to store your items differently depending on how long they will be in storage. For example, if you are storing long-term, you will want to create a defined pathway so you can easily reach all of your items.

Determine the Level of Security You Need

Not all storage rental companies are created equal, especially when it comes to security measures for their tenants’ possessions. Choosing a storage space should be influenced by the amount and type of security the facility has to offer. Look for a facility with a dedicated staff that has an immediate concern for their tenants’ safety and security of possessions.

When you are preparing to sell your home, most realtors advise that you keep your home clean and uncluttered. You still want furniture and artwork in the house, but much of your extra furniture and personal possessions should go to a self-storage unit in Capitola, CA . By using a storage unit, you can begin the moving process and sell your house faster.

• Declutter your home. This means that any unmatched furniture and extra decorations should go in a storage unit. Decluttering also helps to make your rooms and house seem bigger, which will help convince prospective buyers to purchase your home.
• You want to depersonalize your home as much as possible. Pack up knickknacks, pictures, and personal decorations. Place them in a storage unit rental until you move to your next home.
• Keep each room’s décor simple and matching. Your dining room should only have a dining table, chairs, and maybe a few decorations. Your living room should have matching couches and end tables. Make your house look streamlined and ready for anyone to move in.

Whether you are moving or using a self-storage unit in Santa Cruz, CA, there are certain packing materials that will make your packing experience run much smoother. During a bumpy move and even sitting in a storage unit, your possessions should be as protected as possible against damage. Here are the main packing materials you will need when putting your items into storage:

Plastic Containers or Cardboard Boxes

The container you use for your items may depend on how long you plan to use your storage unit. To fully protect your clothes, dishes, and personal possessions, consider using sealed, plastic containers. These are easily stackable and will protect your possessions against pests, flooding, or other unexpected accidents. If you anticipate taking items out of storage within a few weeks or months, you may prefer to use cardboard boxes that can be easily broken down and discarded.

Packing Paper or Bubble Wrap

You should always have packing paper to protect your fragile possessions, like dishes and glasses. If you have very fragile items, such as delicate crystal glass, then consider purchasing bubble wrap. It is smart to have packing paper available to separate less fragile items, such as lamp shades and hanging art. Some products may have vibrant dyes that can be transferred to other products unless there is a barrier between them. Plan on wrapping all of your items individually to keep them protected during their time in storage.

Plastic Wrapping

Plastic wrap is something you should use to protect your larger items. Furniture, rugs, and mattresses should have some sort of plastic wrapping. This will protect them from potential pests and dust or moisture in your storage unit. Some items, like custom wall art or decorations, may require different storage options, such as a climate-controlled unit. Depending on what the item is and how it is made, plastic wrapping may cause moisture where there should be none. When in doubt, ask your professional storage services about how certain items should be stored.

If you are travelling, renting out your property unfurnished, or moving to a new home, you may need to place your furniture in storage at a self-storage facility in Capitola . There are a few simple steps you can take to protect your furniture from potential damage while it is in storage. Follow these guidelines to ensure that your wooden furniture, sofas, and other upholstered items, as well as electronics and other belongings remain in good condition while they are kept in storage.

Wooden Furniture

Before packing wooden furniture, take the furniture apart, if possible. Unscrew table legs, headboards, and baseboards and keep the screws in small, carefully labeled bags. Remove wooden drawers from desks and bureaus and pack separately. Make sure all the wooden items have been carefully cleaned and waxed. Place wooden items away from the entrance to the storage unit for extra protection against moisture.

Upholstered Furniture

Fabric-covered or upholstered items of furniture, such as armchairs and sofas, can be vulnerable to the growth of mold or mildew. Before storage, wipe all fabric surfaces down with an antibacterial cleaning solution and let the furniture dry thoroughly. Wrap sofas, armchairs, and other similar items in blankets or use special padded covers for protection against bumps and scrapes.

Electronics

Electronics, such as computers and televisions, should be placed on a raised surface, so they do not come in contact with the floor of the storage unit. Store electronic items in their original packaging if possible. Wrap power cables separately in bubble wrap and keep them with their respective appliances. Fill all gaps in the boxes with packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or quilts, to cushion the electronic items.

Metal furnishings

Polish all metal furnishings, fixture, and metal trim before placing the items in storage. Keep any metal items enclosed in plastic sheeting or shrink wrap. Store silverware in its original box.

If you are planning to visit a secure storage facility and rent a high quality storage unit in Santa Cruz, there are a few packing tips to consider first. Watch this video to find out more about how to pack your belongings for storage .

The video begins by advising you to pack heavier items, such as books, in smaller boxes. Lighter items, such as clothes, can be packed in larger boxes. The presenter suggests stacking heavier boxes on the bottom of each pile, with lighter ones on top. It’s important to make sure that the boxes are securely stacked. The video suggests fitting plastic or metal shelves into your storage unit. This will make it easier for you to access individual boxes. The presenter also reminds viewers of the importance of carefully labeling each box. It can be useful to know the precise location of specific items or categories of items when looking around your storage unit.

There are many situations in which you might chose to place some of your possessions in storage. Perhaps you are moving house or are temporarily living in a small property. You may be sentimentally attached to certain bulky items, such as heirloom furniture, which you do not have room for in your current home. If you are planning to seek out professional storage services near Santa Cruz , you will first need to pack up your belongings. Packing carefully is key, if you wish your belongings to remain in excellent condition while they are in storage.

Sort and Categorize Your Belongings

Decide which items you may need to access more frequently so you’ll be able to place these toward the front of the storage unit. Make sure they are not buried underneath a stack of other boxes. Separate out fragile items and take special care in packing them. Think about how best to store bulky or awkwardly shaped items, which will not fit easily into boxes. The management team at a reputable storage facility should be able to offer advice on packing these items.

Choose Your Packing Materials

Pack your belongings in plastic or cardboard boxes. You should never use plastic bags as some plastic bags can degrade over time and leave their contents exposed to moisture. Use standard-sized packing boxes, if possible. Most storage units are designed to house a specific number of boxes. Using standard-sized boxes will make it easier to estimate the size of storage unit you will need. If the boxes are different sizes, it will be more difficult to stack them evenly. Use bubble wrap or quilts to cushion fragile items. If in doubt, ask the staff at the self-storage facility for advice.

Select the Right Size Storage Unit

You’ll need to count the number of boxes you have packed and measure any non-boxed items in order to estimate the size of storage unit you will need. The self-storage company may be able to offer guidance on this. Your belongings should fit snugly inside the storage unit you choose.

When you’re in need of a storage unit rental in Capitola, you want to be sure you’re using the right storage facility that suits your needs . For example, if you have to rent a storage unit because you’re running out of space in your home to store things, choose a facility that’s close to your home and easily accessible—such as one that’s open seven days a week, and at convenient times. Since your personal items may be in a storage unit indefinitely, be sure that you’re renting a space in a secure storage facility—one that has an on-site manager, security fences and cameras, electronic keypad entry, and sturdy units.

Do your research and shop around. When visiting a potential storage facility, make notes of how accommodating the staff is to guests. Inspect the grounds for cleanliness, rodents and insects, and signs of disrepair. Also, check out all available storage units. If everything looks okay and you’re ready to make your first rent payment, be absolutely sure that you completely understand the terms of your contract before you sign any paperwork.

If you’re planning a move, you should consider a storage unit rental near Santa Cruz . Storing your belongings in a self-storage unit gives you the opportunity to de-clutter before you move, and affords you extra time to decide where everything will go in your new place. If you’re in college and are moving into a dorm or other shared housing, a student storage unit is the perfect place to store belongings that won’t fit in your dorm or apartment.

Watch this video for more tips about preparing for your upcoming move. Before moving, take some time to learn about the advantages of self-storage units and secure storage facilities.

Moving Tips

If you’re considering renting a self-storage unit in Capitola, there are a few important things that you should consider before choosing a self-storage facility. You want to make sure that you find a high-quality storage unit in a secure storage facility. Here are some helpful facts about self-storage units and storage facilities that will make your decision much easier.

Make Sure You Choose a Secure Storage Facility

Try to Rent a Ground Level Storage Unit

While most storage facilities have elevators that provide access to their upper-level self-storage units, it’s much more convenient to rent a ground-level storage unit. Some storage facilities even guarantee that all of their storage units are on the ground level. This will make it much easier and faster for you to get items in and out of your storage unit whenever you need to, without having to worry about getting up and down stairs or elevators. You’ll be able to pull your moving truck straight up to the door of your storage unit, and load and unload your belongings with ease.

Look for a Storage Facility That Offers Customizable Storage

A storage facility that offers customizable storage units and storage plans will make it easy to find the perfect self-storage unit for your needs. You will be able to choose from a variety of storage unit sizes so that you can be sure that all of your belongings fit easily inside. Customizable storage also allows you to create a rental and billing agreement based on how long you will need to rent your storage unit.

If you’re moving furniture into a self-storage facility near Santa Cruz , there are a few things that you can do to be sure that your belongings will remain secure and undamaged. When preparing a sofa for storage, you’ll need to clean it and protect it from dust, scratches, and rodents while in your self-storage unit. Here is a simple guide to preparing your sofa for storage in a storage facility.

Clean the Sofa’s Fabric and Parts Completely

Before doing anything else, you’ll want to completely clean every part of your sofa. This will ensure that it doesn’t begin to smell moldy or musty while in your storage unit. Vacuum the sofa’s upholstery thoroughly to make sure that all dust, dirt, hair, and debris are removed. Next, clean the sofa’s fabric with an antimicrobial cleaning agent that is specifically formulated for upholstery. Finally, polish and clean any metal or wooden parts of the sofa with the appropriate type of cleaner.

Store Removable Parts Separately

Once your sofa is thoroughly cleaned, you can begin detaching any removable parts. If the legs or arms of your sofa can be taken off, you should do so, and wrap them securely in bubble wrap or plastic. They can be stored separately in a box in your storage unit. You should also remove pillows or cushions from the sofa, and store these separately as well in vacuum-sealed storage bags. This will keep them from becoming faded, dusty, or damaged.

Protect the Sofa from Rodents and Bugs

Even if you don’t think that your storage facility is home to rodents and bugs, it’s still wise to protect your sofa from vermin. You can spray your sofa with a bug and rodent repellant before moving it to your storage unit. Just be sure that the repellant is safe for fabrics and upholstery. You should place wooden pallets on the floor of your storage unit, and cover them with thick plastic. Place your sofa on top of the pallets, and cover it with a cotton drop cloth or canvas.

When you are planning a big move, a self-storage unit can provide you with the secure space you need to store your belongings. Before you can start preparing your items for a move into a self-storage unit, you will want to make sure that everything is properly packed and organized. A facility offering storage units near Santa Cruz can provide you with the packing supplies and assistance you need to move into a high quality storage unit. By obtaining your moving supplies well in advance, you can help reduce your stress as you move. Here is a look at some of the best packing supplies that you can use during your move.

Tape

Packing tape is among the essential moving supplies that you will want to obtain before you begin packing. Unlike duct tape or masking tape, packing tape is designed to safely secure boxes and other items. You can use your packing tape to seal and support your moving boxes and protect the items inside. In addition, your packing tape can be applied to your furniture so that it remains safe during transport.

Newspaper

If you will be packing a lot of fragile items, you may want to make sure that you have a good supply of newspaper for your move. Since newspaper is lightweight and easy to wrap, you can use this versatile material to protect fragile items such as dishes, glassware, and other items. When you are choosing newspaper, it is a good idea to test it to make sure that the paper’s ink will not leave a mark on your belongings.

Boxes

Boxes are also important for any move. When you are getting ready for an upcoming move, you will want to obtain boxes in many different shapes and sizes. While large boxes are convenient for packing bulky items, you should also be sure to collect smaller boxes as well. Small boxes can be used to pack heavy belongings, such as books or kitchenware.

While moving to a new home was once an inherently stressful task, modern technology has come up with clever ways to reduce the burden. One of the previously stressful aspects of moving was packing your boxes and keeping track of their contents while they are on the moving truck or in your storage unit in Capitola . Now you can use this app to keep your boxes organized.

In the past, you may have spent hours at your storage unit rental rummaging through your boxes to find what you are looking for. Now you can use the Moving Van app to create a digital inventory of your belongings and find them with ease. You can log each box as you pack and then browse their contents later on to find what you are looking for. You can even search the app for an item and it will direct you to the appropriate box.https://www.jdministorage.com/wp-content/uploads/moving-van-app-screenshot.png

With the right tools, moving does not have to be as much of a hassle as you think it will. The Moving Day app available on iTunes gives you the help you need to easily organize your belongings so you can transport them to your new home or to your storage unit in Capitola .

This app makes it easy to catalog every item that you pack. It also has a built-in barcode scanning and label making system to keep you organized throughout every phase of the move. Find an easier way to identify damaged or missing items and create reports right from the app.

Whether you are bringing your belongings to a storage facility or to your new home, this app keeps you organized during the process. Download it before your next move to make it less stressful.

If you’re like most people, you can probably think of many things you’d rather do besides pack up your home and move. Whether you’re downsizing your home or moving out of your house to travel for a while, a self-storage unit in Capitola can help make the packing and moving process easier. Instead of dreading packing and putting it off until the last minute, consider the ways you can make the packing process fun. Invite a few friends over and have a packing party, giving everyone a small prize once individual rooms are completed. You can look at your moving truck or storage unit as a real-life Tetris game, contemplating each move to make the most of your space. Take a look at this infographic to find more ways of making packing fun instead of frustrating. Please share with your friends and family!

Before you put your belongings into the self-storage facility in Capitola , you should take the time to find out the best way to keep them safe in the storage unit. Use this guide to store your wood furniture as safely as possible:

Take the Furniture Apart

If your wood furniture has any legs, headboards, or footboards, you should remove them before putting the pieces into the storage unit. Put the extra pieces like screws or drawer handles into labeled plastic bags so you can easily find them when you are ready to put the furniture back together. You should also clean and wax all of your wood to give it an extra barrier of protection against drying out. Put the furniture far away from the door of the storage unit just in case it rains.

Find the Right Arrangement in the Storage Unit

If you want to keep your furniture safe, you should also spend some time arranging it the right way in your storage unit. Try to leave a clear path where you can safely walk to get all of the items in your unit. Do not store anything heavy on top of your wood furniture.

Keep It Moisturized

If you want to make the most of your storage unit rental in Capitola , you should take the time to properly pack all of your boxes. Use the following guidelines to properly pack the boxes that you plan to put into your storage unit:

Get a Few Different Sizes of Boxes

When it comes to packing, every box is not created equally. You should put heavier items like books into smaller boxes so they are easy to carry. Put light items like pillows or clothing into larger boxes. When you use the right size boxes for your belongings, it makes it much easier to move your cartons around in the storage unit. When you put the boxes into storage, do not place heavy items on top of lighter boxes.

Make a Master List

You should always create a master list for your boxes so you know exactly where everything is. Label each box with a number or a letter and create a list that describes everything that is packed into a specific box. Whether you have five boxes or fifty, this system makes it easy to keep your storage unit organized so it can be as efficient as possible. Write “fragile” on any boxes that have breakables so anyone who moves them knows to be careful.

Use Helpful Packing Materials

Packing materials help you pack your boxes more efficiently. You can use packing paper or bubble wrap to protect fragile items. You can also use these materials to fill in any extra spaces in the boxes so your items do not shift around inside. Packing tape helps you secure the cartons so the boxes do not open when you move them.