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  • Should You Clean Items After Retrieving from Storage Unit

    When you retrieve your items from a storage unit, the first thing that comes to your mind is how glad you are to have them back in your possession. However, it is imperative to note that these stored items may not be in the same state you left them. Over time, they may have accrued dirt and dust, or even developed mold and mildew. So, the question on everyone’s minds is, should you clean your items after retrieving them from a storage unit? In this post, we will explore the possibilities and offer useful tips on how to clean your storage items.

    Cleaning Your Items Helps Preserve Quality

    The answer is a resounding YES! Cleaning your items after they have been in storage is an essential step towards preserving their longevity and cleanliness. Even if the items were in properly sealed and protected containers, it is always best to give them a thorough wipe. You never know what kind of bacteria and germs may have accumulated on them, especially if they have been in storage for extended periods.

    How Should You Clean Items?

    When cleaning your items, it is important to use the appropriate cleaning method for each item. For example, if you are cleaning clothes, it is recommended that you wash them before storing them back in your closet. Wipe furniture with a damp cloth and dust off hard surfaces like metal and plastic with a soft microfiber cloth. For wood and leather items, use specialized leather cleaners and wood oils to prevent them from drying out or cracking.

    Prevent Mold and Mildew

    Another important reason to clean your items is to prevent the spread of mold and mildew. These fungi thrive in damp and warm environments, which is why it is important to ensure your stored items are clean and dry before storing them. If you notice any signs of mold or mildew on your items, it is crucial to address the problem immediately before storing them away.

     

    Take Inventory

    Aside from preventing mold and mildew, cleaning your stored items can help you keep track of your belongings. When you retrieve items from storage, they may be covered in dust or in a disorganized state. By cleaning them, you are taking stock of what you own and where everything is. You may even discover some items that you thought were lost or forgotten!

    Pouch Self Storage

    By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your stored items are in pristine condition for whenever you need them next. Pouch Self Storage makes it easy to store your items with peace of mind. Whether you have seasonal decorations, excess furniture, or important documents, Pouch Self Storage provides the perfect place to keep them safe and easily accessible. Plus, with 24/7 surveillance and climate-controlled units, you can be sure your possessions are in good hands. Say goodbye to clutter and hello to a clutter-free home or office with Pouch Self Storage. Contact us today to learn how to get started!

  • How to Store Tires So They Won’t Rot

    Tires are a crucial component of any vehicle, and it is important to ensure they are properly stored to avoid any damage or rotting. With proper storage techniques, you can prolong the life of your tires and get the most out of your investment. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and tricks on how to store your tires, so they won’t rot, and stay in good condition for whenever you need them.

    Clean Before Storage

    Before storing your tires, it is important to clean them properly. This helps remove any dirt or debris that may cause damage or speed up the rotting process. Start by removing your tires from the vehicle and thoroughly cleaning them with soap and water. After cleaning, let the tires dry completely before storing them. This will help prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.

    Find a Cool and Dry Place

    Where you store your tires is also crucial. It is important to keep them in a cool, dry place away from any sunlight or direct heat. Sunlight and heat can cause your tires to dry out, crack, and ultimately rot. Keeping them in a cool and dark place is the best way to avoid this kind of damage. Consider storing them in a temperature-controlled storage unit like the ones offered by Pouch Self Storage.

    Keep Them Elevated

    When storing your tires, make sure to keep them elevated off the ground. This helps prevent flat spots and damage to the tires. You can use tire racks or stacks to keep them off the ground, or even hang them from hooks. Just make sure they are properly supported and will not fall.

    Store Them Properly

    When storing your tires, it is important to keep them upright and not stacked on top of each other. Stacking your tires can cause the belts inside them to shift, which can lead to uneven wear and ultimately cause your tires to rot. Instead, store them one next to the other, making sure they are secure and won’t roll around.

    Inspect Them Regularly

    Even with proper storage and care, it is still important to inspect your tires regularly. Check for any signs of rot, cracking, or uneven wear. If you notice any issues, have your tires inspected by a professional to ensure they are safe to use. Better to be safe than sorry!

    Learn How Pouch Self Storage Can Help You with All Your Storage Needs!

    Storing your tires properly is important to ensure they stay in good condition and don’t rot. At Pouch Self Storage, we offer temperature-controlled storage units with state-of-the-art security systems to keep your tires safe and secure. Contact us today to learn more!

  • 5 Reasons Self Storage is On the Rise

    Self-storage has become a popular solution for individuals and businesses looking for extra space to store their belongings. In recent years, the self-storage industry has been on the rise, attracting more and more customers. From decluttering to relocating, there are several reasons why people opt for self-storage. In this post, we will explore five reasons why self-storage is on the rise.

    Decluttering

    Decluttering is one of the primary reasons why people turn to self-storage. It is a great way to free up space in your home or office and get rid of clutter. Whether you are moving home, or downsizing, self-storage can help you organize your belongings and keep them safe. This way, you can keep your home or office tidy without sacrificing the things you value most.

    Business Storage

    Self-storage is not only beneficial for individuals but also businesses. Many companies use self-storage to store their inventory or stock temporarily. It provides an affordable and secure way to store their items without having to rent a bigger office or warehouse.  This is especially beneficial for small businesses that are just starting out and cannot afford to rent larger commercial space just yet.

    Seasonal Storage

    Seasonal storage is another factor that has been driving the growth of the self-storage industry. Whether you are a fashionista looking to store your winter clothing during the summer months or an outdoor enthusiast looking for a place to store your camping gear during winter, self-storage is the perfect solution. You can access your items whenever you need them without having to worry about cluttering up your home or office space.

    Convenience

    Self-storage is also known for its convenience. Most facilities offer 24/7 access to your storage unit, so you can retrieve or store your items at any time. Additionally, modern facilities provide amenities such as packing supplies, loading docks, and storage units with climate control. This makes it easy and safe to store your possessions, ensuring their protection and longevity.

    Security

    Security is always a concern when it comes to storing valuable items. Many self-storage facilities offer maximum security measures such as CCTV, security personnel, and alarm systems to protect their customers’ belongings. This way, you can rest assured that your possessions are safe and secure while in storage.

    Discover How Pouch Self Storage Can Help You Today!

    Self-storage has become a popular and reliable storage solution for individuals and businesses. With convenience, security, and affordability, it is no wonder that the self-storage industry has been on the rise. Whether it is for decluttering, business storage, seasonal storage, or convenience and security, there are plenty of reasons to opt for self-storage. At Pouch Self Storage, we offer a wide range of units to suit every requirement. Get in touch with us today to find the perfect storage solution for you!

  • What You Need to Know About Storing Toiletries

    Storing toiletries can be a tough task, especially when you have limited space. It’s important to know what types of toiletries you have and how to store them properly to keep them safe and easily accessible. As a customer of Pouch Self Storage, you want to ensure that your toiletries are in good condition and accessible whenever you need them. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best ways to store your toiletries for maximum space utilization and easy access.

    Create a Toiletries Inventory List

    The first step in storing toiletries is to create a list of all the items you have. This will help you get rid of anything that is expired or unused and make storage more manageable. By creating an inventory list, you can also determine which type of storage units you will need. If you have a lot of bulky items, you’ll likely need a larger unit. If you only have a few small items, a smaller unit may suffice.

    Use Suction Cups and Shelf Dividers

    Suction cups and shelf dividers are excellent organizers for bathroom toiletries. Suction cups are easy to install, don’t require drilling holes, and are great for holding small toiletries like toothbrushes, razors, and makeup brushes. On the other hand, shelf dividers are perfect for storing larger items like shampoos and conditioners. They help you keep your bathroom necessities within reach and upright, thereby reducing the chances of spilling.

    Store Toiletries in Clear Containers

    The advantage of clear containers is that they help you see what’s inside, look nice, and fit well with any decor style. You can use glass, acrylic, or plastic clear containers, but be sure that they’re airtight or have a secure lid that will prevent moisture from damaging your toiletries. Clear containers also make it easier to spot expiry dates and replace your products accordingly.

    Label Everything

    When you have multiple storage containers, labeling them is essential for easy access. You don’t want to waste time looking through every container to find what you need. Put labels on your storage bins, shelves, and baskets with specific items. For example, you could label a container ‘Hair Products’ with hair spray, gel, and serum, or ‘First Aid’ for band-aids and medicine.

    Use the Back of the Door

    If you’re short on space in your bathroom, using the back of the door can be a lifesaver. You can install an over-the-door storage rack for towels, washcloths, and robes. Door-mounted organizers are also great for keeping your toiletries within reach when you’re showering, shaving, or applying makeup. You can also install hooks or a rod to hang bathrobes or towels.

    Visit Pouch Self Storage Today for All Your Storage Needs!

    Storing toiletries is all about organization and getting creative with the space you have. If you’re dealing with clutter in your California home or business, we’re here to lend a hand. Our storage facilities are state-of-the-art and gated, perfect for all storage needs. No matter the size or duration, Pouch Self Storage has you covered. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance or have any questions.

  • How to Choose the Right Storage Boxes for You

    When you’re packing your things in storage, you’ll want to pack them carefully. This means choosing the right storage unit and using the right packing materials, but what about the boxes? Does the type of box really matter? It does, and the type of box you choose will depend largely on what you intend to store in it. Let’s take a look at different types of storage boxes and how they are best used.

    • Cardboard is useful but not the best option for long-term storage. Cardboard boxes are often the go-to for packing, and certainly for moving, and with good reason. They’re lightweight, inexpensive, easy to label, stackable, and they can be easily reused or recycled. However, if you’re going to be storing your items for an extended period of time, cardboard may not be your best option. Cardboard boxes are easily damaged, attract vermin, and will quickly allow mold and mildew growth if they get wet. If you are storing items for several months and your unit is not climate controlled, steer clear of carboard boxes.
    • Plastic boxes are perfect for storage. Easily stackable, impervious to water, and nearly indestructible, plastic bins are the perfect option for storing things safely. They don’t require packing tape, because they are self-sealing, and they’ll last a long time. However, they are much more expensive than cardboard, so if you are only storing things for a short time, they may not be worth the expense.
    • Some items require specialty boxes. If you are storing something like dishes, art, or electronics, it’s worth finding specialty boxes designed to hold these items. Typically, these boxes will have inserts that keep things from shifting in transit and make them easier to pack. While they can be more expensive than traditional boxes, they give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your items are safe and secure.
    • It’s important to choose the right sized boxes. Small boxes are good for small, heavy things like books, because you don’t want a large box to contain too much weight. You can also pack fragile things like dishes in small boxes, to help keep them protected. Medium boxes are good for larger items that don’t need to be tightly packed, like clothing, toys, or cookware. Large boxes can be filled with lightweight things like linens and blankets, and extra large boxes can hold things that don’t fit in smaller boxes, like comforters, coats, and larger kitchen appliances. Try to keep small boxes under 50 pounds, medium and large under 65, and extra large under 70 pounds, so that they will not be too cumbersome to move. Wardrobe boxes are handy for storing hanging items, and you can use the bottom for things like shoes and purses.

    No matter what type of boxes you choose, there are a few good practices to remember. First, choose high-quality boxes so that they will be less likely to allow your items to be damaged. Label everything clearly so that you know exactly what’s inside, and stack your boxes with the heavier things on the bottom. When you pack a box, be sure to fill in gaps between items with packing materials, and when you stack your boxes, do the same thing. This way, the items inside the boxes are less likely to shift and sustain damage, and the boxes themselves are also less likely to shift.

    Choosing the right boxes is important, and so is choosing the right storage facility. When you’re seeking a place to store your things in Southern California, you owe it to yourself to check out Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. For more information, call (800) 378-4598 or contact us through our website.

  • When it’s Time to Consider Choosing Long-Term Storage

    Sometimes, you need storage for a little while. Maybe you’re moving, changing offices, or just holding on to some furniture for someone. There are times, though, when short-term storage is not sufficient. Here, we look at some reasons you might need long term storage, as well as offering some tips for choosing a storage unit and preparing your things to be stored for an extended period of time.

    What is long-term storage? It’s the kind of storage you need if you’ll be keeping things in a storage unit for more than three months. It’s important to find a clean storage unit near your home, but climate control is not as important for short-term storage as it is when you’ll be storing things for several months or even years. Without a space that regulates the temperature and humidity, you will be risking damage to your belongings from mold and mildew. You’ll also want to cover your furniture in long-term storage to protect them, while this is not necessary for short-term storage.

    If you are storing seasonal items, like Christmas decorations, it’s unlikely that you will need them within 10 to 12 months. In that case, it’s smart to choose a storage unit appropriate for long-term storage. The same holds true for sporting equipment you only need once a year. A military family might need to store their things when they’re taking an overseas assignment, and those who winter in other states might want to store some of their furniture or a vehicle while they’re away.

    No matter how long your things will be in storage, there are a few factors you should consider. Look for a storage unit that’s the right size to store all of your things, so you don’t end up in a bind when you try to pack it. Consider how much access you’ll need to your belongings and make sure the facility you choose will be convenient for you. Look into the facility’s policies and reputation so that you can be sure your items will be well-protected while you’re away. Make sure the cost of the unit won’t overtax your budget in the long run, and consider storage insurance to protect your belongings from damage or theft.

    The way you pack your storage unit will vary based on how long you plan to store your things. No matter how long they’ll be there, your items should be carefully labelled and packed to protect them from harm. You should make sure you can retrieve things from your unit easily and keep a detailed inventory of what is in the unit. If you’re packing for short term storage, try to leave a pathway in the center of the unit so that you can easily move things in and out. Try to arrange your things against the walls, using vertical space to save on floor space. If you’re storing things long term, invest in high-quality boxes or vacuum sealed bags. This will help protect your items from humidity and other causes of damage. It’s a good idea to stack your things on pallets if you can, to allow better airflow through the unit and protect against condensation and water damage.

    Whether you need long or short-term storage, you can rely on Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. For more information, call (800) 378-4598 or contact us through our website.

  • How To Organize a Storage Unit

    When you’re renting a storage unit, you will want to make the most of your allotted space. In addition to maximizing your square footage, however, it’s crucial to keep your belongings not only well protected but also accessible. When you need to retrieve something, you don’t want to have to turn your storage unit upside down looking for it or, even worse, dig through boxes. Here, we offer some organizing tips for storing your things efficiently.

    • Choose the right sized space. How much space do you need for the belongings you intend to store? It’s extremely frustrating to begin packing a storage unit and realize it’s the wrong size, so make sure you do your homework before you rent a unit. Make a list of the items you wish to store and estimate how much space they’ll occupy. You can find storage calculators online to help you with this process. In general, units come in 10 by 10, which is about half the size of a one-car garage, 10 by 20, which will hold the contents of a three bedroom apartment, and 10 by 15, which falls in the middle. Some storage facilities also offer 5 by 5, 5 by 10, and 5 by 15 feet units and, on the other end of the spectrum, 10 by 25 and 10 by 30 units, large enough for a houseful of items. If you’re in doubt about the size you’ll need, it’s usually safer to go one size higher. When you’re choosing a storage unit, consider other factors, too, like whether you need a space that’s climate controlled.
    • Keep a detailed inventory. While you may be able to easily recall which large pieces of furniture you have in storage, you might just as easily forget some of the smaller items. Having an accurate inventory helps you to be able to locate things when you need them, without digging through your boxes. It can also be helpful to have a map of your unit, detailing where items are located.
    • Pack your items carefully. Consider clear storage bins rather than cardboard boxes. These do a better job of protecting your belongings, and they also make it easier to see what’s in the box. Know how to pack each item properly. Store electronics by removing all cords and cables and enclosing them in separate waterproof bags, then covering your equipment to keep out dust and dirt. Store clothes by folding or rolling and placing them loosely into your boxes, with silica packets to keep them dry. You can also hang clothes in garment bags on a rolling cart or in a wardrobe box. Appliances should have the hoses and tanks removed and drained before storage, should be dry before storing, and should be sprayed for pests. If you’re storing a refrigerator, leave the door ajar, and if you’re storing your grill, deep clean it and remove the propane tank before storing. Store delicate items by wrapping them in paper or bubble wrap and packing them in a study box, and store books by wrapping them in acid-free archival paper and packing them flat, not with the spine or binding pointing up.
    • Label everything. Be specific. If you’re looking for a cookbook, you’ll find it much more easily if you have a box labelled “cookbooks” instead of six boxes labelled simply “books.” Label the boxes on more than one side, in case one side is obscured once everything is in storage.
    • Leave space to walk. Leaving at least one pathway through your storage unit will allow you to access the things you need more efficiently, without having to drag things out or climb over things.
    • Store things in a logical arrangement. Disassemble furniture and store these pieces upright, to maximize your space. Store large, heavy items on the bottom, going lighter as you go up, and make as much use of vertical space as you can. It can be helpful to use shelves if you have a number of small items to store, and it’s wise to leave a step ladder in the unit to help you reach things. Store things you’ll need to use more frequently towards the front of the unit, so you can access them more easily.

    Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. For more information, call (800) 378-4598 or contact us through our website.

  • Storage Guide for a College Student

    If you’re in college, it’s likely that you’ve hauled quite a bit of stuff from home into your new dorm or apartment. When the school year is over and it’s time to head out for the summer, you probably won’t want to have to take all of those things with you. What’s the solution? Get a storage unit for the summer! Using self-storage is the perfect way to minimize what you have to take back and forth, while making sure you have what you need when school starts back up in the fall.

    What kind of storage unit will you need? Storage units can typically hold at least one room full of furniture. For students living in two or three-bedroom apartments, a larger unit may be a better option. Which size unit will you need? A 5’ by 5’ storage space is perfect for holding a loveseat, boxes, and home décor, while a 5’ by 10’ unit will hold a sofa or twin bed, along with some smaller furnishings and décor. You should also consider a climate-controlled storage unit, especially if you’re storing clothing, papers, or furniture. This will protect your furniture from the elements, as well as mold and mildew.

    No matter what you are storing while you’re away, make sure it’s packed correctly.

    • Furniture: Disassemble what you can, and pack small things in larger things when you can’t. For instance, take apart a bed frame, but store small objects in your dresser drawers. When storing a mattress, wrap it in two fitted sheets or store it in a plastic mattress bag to protect it.
    • Kitchen items: If you have pots and pans, glass or plastic storage containers, dishes, glasses, and silverware, there’s no need for you to bring those things back home with you. Instead, store your kitchen for the summer. Put fragile items in boxes lined with bubble wrap or packing paper, wrapping breakables carefully and storing heavier items on the bottom. Put extra filling material in the tops of the boxes, so that you can stack them without the risk of breaking any of their contents.
    • Bedding: You probably have bedding that was purchased specifically for your room at college, especially if you live in the dorm. There’s no need to carry those things home and try to find a place for them in your parents’ house over the summer. Instead, pack your comforters, sheets, blankets, and extra pillows in large boxes and store them while you’re away. Don’t pack anything made of cloth in plastic bags, because moisture can become trapped in the bags and cause mildew.
    • Books and school supplies: These supplies can be bulky, so they’re best left behind when you leave campus. Consider selling any books you won’t need in the future, but keep everything you will need next year in a self-storage unit. Use small, sturdy boxes to pack books, and place them in the box horizontally, never vertically, because storing them vertically can damage their spines.
    • Seasonal clothing: Heavy winter coats, gloves, and hats will be of no use to you over your summer vacation. Instead of weighing yourself down with unnecessary clothing, wash or dry clean it carefully and pack it up until you need it again. Clear, plastic boxes are great for preventing damage to your clothing while it’s stored, or you can use wardrobe boxes, designed specifically for hanging clothes.
    • Sports equipment: If you play a winter sport and will need your gear at school, you can leave it when you go home for the summer. Sporting goods can be expensive, so pack everything carefully, making sure not to damage breakable items and securing everything in appropriate containers. As with all the other things you store, take care to clean your sports equipment before you pack it away for the summer.

    Especially if your hometown is far from where you go to school, leaving things in self-storage can help lighten your load and make moving off and back onto campus go more smoothly. When you’re ready to find a great self-storage facility, choose Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. For more information, call (800) 378-4598 or contact us through our website.

  • Things to Consider Before Renting a Storage Unit

     

    Have you ever rented a storage unit? They’re an excellent solution for storing things either short or long-term, and they’re secure and convenient. If this is your first time renting one, there are some things you should know.

    • First, let’s talk about how storage units work, because the process is typically similar regardless of your storage company. You find a storage facility near you, and sign a contract to secure a unit within that space for a specified amount of time. Some companies have a three-month minimum requirement, while most others rent units on a month-to-month basis. You’ll need government-issued ID to rent the unit, like a driver’s license, military ID, passport, or state ID. Read your contract thoroughly before you sign it, so you make sure you’re clear on the terms. For instance, you’ll need to know things like when your payments are due and how much notice you’ll need to give before moving out of your unit.
    • Rules for storage units are basically common sense. You can’t live in your storage unit or conduct business there, and you’ll be restricted in terms of what kinds of items you can store. Essentially, nothing hazardous to your unit or the units around you can be stored in a storage unit, nor can anything illegal.
    • There are a few different reasons people rent storage units. Some people need seasonal storage of things like holiday decorations or sports gear. Others need temporary storage, during a move or a renovation. Sometimes, people who are decluttering or downsizing need a place to store things, and sometimes when a family member comes to stay for a while, extra space is needed to store what used to be stored in the guest room. College students often store their dorm room furnishings over the summer, and members of the military use self-storage when they’re deployed. People often choose self-storage for a car, boat, or RV.
    • There are two different types of storage. Full-service storage involves a company that will pick up a customer’s belongings and transport them to the storage unit. Often, customers can request a pickup or a return on a smartphone app, which is very convenient. Full-service storage facilities take pictures to document what you’re storing and create an online inventory list. Self-storage is a more popular option because it’s more affordable but still safe and secure. Self-storage customers take their things to the storage unit themselves, and pick things up when they need them.
    • Before you rent a storage unit, consider your needs carefully. What do you need to store? Do you need climate control? What size unit do you need? Self-storage units typically come in at least five sizes: 5’x5’, 5’x10’, 10’x10’, 10’ by 15’, and 15’ by 20’. The size you need will be based on how much you need to store, and you can find online calculators to help you estimate the appropriate size.
    • Do you need indoor, outdoor, or climate controlled storage? Indoor storage units are sometimes climate-controlled and sometimes not. Outdoor storage units are covered and locked, with drive-up access. They’re good for large items and vehicles, but indoor storage is better for anything valuable or fragile. A climate-controlled storage unit is best for storing clothing, furniture, and anything else you want to protect from extreme temperatures, mold, and mildew.
    • Assess the amenities before deciding on a storage unit. How accessible will your storage unit be? Some facilities offer 24-hour access, while others are closed on certain days, like Sundays or holidays. It’s important to find a facility with hours that are convenient for you. You’ll also want to make sure the facility you choose is secure. Is there in-person surveillance? How safe and secure is the facility? Pay attention to the location and the lighting, and make sure you feel safe on the property.
    • Prepare your things before you store them. Acquaint yourself with the rules and restrictions about what you can store before you pack up your things. Then take the time to create a detailed list of everything you’re storing. Taking inventory can help you remember what you’ve got in storage, and it can be useful if you ever need to file an insurance claim. Clean all items before placing them in storage, and disassemble furniture to make better use of your storage space. Pack everything carefully in high-quality boxes, cushioning it as you would for a move, and label everything clearly. Place items strategically so that you’ll be able to find things easily and nothing will be damaged.
    • Consider insurance. Having your items properly insured will give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re protected in case of breakage or theft. This does not necessarily mean, though, that you need to purchase storage insurance. While many storage facilities offer affordable self-storage insurance options, you may already be covered by your homeowners or renters insurance.

    When you’re ready to rent a self-storge unit, choose Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. For more information, call (800) 378-4598 or contact us through our website.

  • How to Move Out of a Storage Unit

    Waist up portrait of handsome bearded man loading cart with cardboard boxes into self storage unit, copy space

    Keeping some of your things in self-storage is extremely convenient, but it’s not typically a permanent solution to storage problems. Most self-storage facilities offer contracts on a month-to-month basis, and there’s good reason for that. People store their things because they want to clear clutter temporarily to sell a house, they need to store furniture when remodeling, they’re in the middle of a move, and many other reasons that don’t involve keeping the storage unit for the long term. When you’re ready to clear out your storage unit, here are some tips for managing the process smoothly.

    • Give advance notice of your move. Typically, storage facilities require a call or written notice to inform them of your intention to vacate the storage unit. Make sure you know your facility’s policy, so you don’t need to pay for time you weren’t using your unit.
    • Decide where your belongings are going. Before you pull all of your things out of storage and bring them to your home, make sure you have a place for everything. One great way to do this is to visit the storage unit before you start taking things out and take pictures of everything that’s there. You can then look at these pictures once you get home and make a plan for all of the items.
    • Bring a big enough vehicle to move everything. Don’t waste trips running back and forth with a too-small vehicle. You might need to rent a truck or van for a day, but it’s well worth it. If any of your items are heavy, bring someone to help you transport them.
    • Leave the space clean. It’s usually required for tenants to clean out their storage units before leaving. This is not as daunting as it may sound; typically, it just means removing all of your things and sweeping.
    • Take your lock with you. It’s easy to forget a little thing like that, but it’s important to unlock the unit and remove your lock, so that the storage facility staff will be able to access the unit.
    • Let management know you’ve gone. Once you’ve removed all of your things, confirm your exit with the facility’s manager before you leave.

    Now you know how to move out, but if you ever need to move your things back into a storage facility, choose Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. For more information, call (800) 378-4598 or contact us through our website.