COVID-19 Update. Learn More.

  • Home Organization Hacks

    Transforming your home into a haven of organization and efficiency requires a blend of creativity, resourcefulness, and practical strategies. These innovative and creative solutions help you make the most of your available space, simplify daily routines, and add a touch of personalization to your home. Whether you’re tackling a small apartment, a family home, or an office space, we have some practical and aesthetic tips that will enhance your quality of life. You won’t need much more than a little bit of dedication and ingenuity. Check out these organizational hacks:

     

    Repurpose and Upcycle: Giving New Life to Old Items

     

    Before seeking out new storage solutions, look within your existing possessions for hidden potential. Repurposing and upcycling offer a sustainable and cost-effective approach to maximizing space and organization:

    • Transform old shoeboxes into organizers for stationery, craft supplies, or small personal items, adding a touch of personalization to your storage solutions.
    • Convert sturdy cardboard boxes into storage containers for seasonal items, pantry staples, or children’s toys, covering them with decorative paper or fabric for a stylish touch.
    • Give a second life to glass jars by using them to store spices, dried goods, bathroom essentials, or even homemade candles, adding a rustic charm to your storage spaces.

     

    Embrace Multifunctional Furniture

     

    Integrate multifunctional furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes, maximizing your space and reducing clutter:

    • Opt for ottomans with hidden storage compartments to stash away blankets, pillows, or extra linens, creating a dual-purpose seating and storage solution.
    • Invest in a storage bed with built-in drawers or compartments to store extra bedding, seasonal clothes, or infrequently used items, maximizing space under the bed.
    • Choose a coffee table with lift-top storage to keep magazines, remote controls, or board games organized and out of sight, while maintaining a stylish centerpiece for your living room.

     

    Vertical Storage Solutions

     

    Unlock the potential of vertical space by utilizing walls for storage, creating additional storage options without compromising floor space:

    • Install wall-mounted shelves or floating shelves to display books, decorative items, or collectibles, freeing up floor space and adding visual interest to your walls.
    • Hang pegboards or rails in kitchens, bathrooms, or workshops to organize utensils, tools, or cleaning supplies, keeping them within easy reach and adding a touch of industrial chic.
    • Utilize over-the-door organizers for hanging towels, cleaning supplies, or accessories, maximizing unused door space for efficient storage and keeping essentials within easy reach.

     

    Labeling and Categorization

     

    • Label storage containers, boxes, or drawers with clear and concise labels, indicating their contents for quick identification and retrieval.
    • Categorize items by type, purpose, or frequency of use, grouping similar items together for efficient organization and creating a logical flow within your storage spaces.
    • Utilize color-coding systems to visually differentiate between categories, making it easier to locate items at a glance and adding a splash of color to your storage areas.

     

    Utilizing Underutilized Spaces: Hidden Storage Gems

     

    Uncover hidden storage opportunities in often overlooked areas, maximizing every inch of available space:

    • Convert the space under beds into storage for out-of-season clothes, extra linens, or infrequently used items, utilizing rolling bins or drawer units for easy access.
    • Utilize the area above cabinets or shelves for storing seasonal decorations, infrequently used appliances, or extra supplies, maximizing vertical space and keeping rarely used items out of the way.
    • Install corner shelves or cabinets to maximize corner spaces, providing additional storage for small items, decorative accents, or frequently used items.

     

    Regular Decluttering and Maintenance: A Habit for Sustainable Organization

     

    Maintaining a clutter-free and organized home requires regular decluttering and maintenance:

    • Schedule regular decluttering sessions to eliminate unused, broken, or unwanted items, reducing clutter and freeing up valuable storage space.
    • Adopt a “one in, one out” rule to prevent the accumulation of unnecessary items, ensuring that every new addition has a designated place and doesn’t contribute to clutter.
    • Regularly review and reorganize storage spaces to ensure that items remain categorized, labeled, and easily accessible, adapting your storage system as your needs and belongings evolve.

     

    Customized Storage Solutions: Tailored to Your Needs

     

    Design customized storage solutions that cater to your specific needs and preferences, maximizing functionality and personalization:

    • Create DIY storage solutions using repurposed materials or customized designs to fit unique spaces or accommodate specific items.
    • Invest in modular storage systems that can be adapted and reconfigured as your storage needs change, providing flexibility and adaptability over time.
    • Consider incorporating built-in storage solutions during renovations or new constructions, maximizing space efficiency and creating a seamless integration with your home’s design.
    • Consider an offsite self-storage unit at Pouch to help you get the edge on home organization. We have units ranging from 5’x5’ to 10‘x30’ to store any size collection.

     

    Embracing Technology: Smart Storage Solutions

     

    Leverage technology to enhance your storage solutions and streamline organization:

    • Using digital labeling systems, such as QR codes or barcodes, can help you quickly identify and track items, especially in large or complex storage spaces.
    • Employ smart storage devices, such as connected cabinets or drawers, to monitor inventory levels, track usage patterns, and receive alerts when items need replenishing.
    • Consider incorporating smart home technology to control lighting, ventilation, or humidity levels in storage areas, ensuring optimal conditions for preserving delicate items or preventing damage.

     

    Aesthetics and Harmony: Creating a Pleasing Environment

     

    Storage solutions don’t have to be merely functional. They can also be aesthetic, contributing to a harmonious and inviting living environment:

    • Choose storage containers, organizers, and furniture that complement your home’s décor and style, creating a cohesive and visually appealing space.
    • Incorporate decorative elements, such as baskets, boxes, or trays, to add visual interest and personality to your storage areas.
    • Color coordination and consistent design elements can create a sense of flow and visual harmony throughout your storage spaces.

     

    Remember, home storage hacks are not merely about maximizing space; they are also about creating a functional, harmonious, and personalized living space that reflects your unique style and preferences. Embrace creativity, resourcefulness, and a touch of personal flair to transform your home into a haven of organization, efficiency, and tranquility. Most importantly, choose to set aside a little bit of time each day to incorporate routine de-cluttering and organization. By taking small steps and staying dedicated to a schedule, you will be able to attain and maintain an organized home life.

  • 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 Save Space in a Storage Unit

    Whether you’re moving or reorganizing, a storage unit can be a very useful tool for keeping your belongings safe while you regroup. If you don’t organize it correctly, though, you can find that your storage unit fills up quickly. Unless you’re ready to upsize your unit, you’ll need some helpful tips for saving space in your storage unit.

    • Be smart about renting the unit. Don’t just guess as to the size you need. Rather, have a clear idea of what you’re going to put into your storage unit before you decide on the size of the unit. Make a list of everything you need to store and you’ll not only know how much storage you’ll need but you’ll also have an inventory list to help you keep track of what you’re storing.
    • Pack your things correctly before you put them in storage. Clean everything before you store it, washing clothes, wiping down furniture, and cleaning out appliances. Line the bottom of the storage unit with cardboard or wooden pallets. Choose the right containers for everything you’re packing, and know how to properly pack things.
      • Pack clothing, neatly folded, in plastic containers with clip-on lids.
      • Cover furniture and mattresses.
      • Don’t wrap things in plastic, unless it’s bubble wrap, or put tape directly on furniture.
      • Remove glass and fragile pieces from appliances or shelves before packing.
      • Choose climate controlled storage for appliances.
      • Pack electronics in original packaging when possible and take photos of wires before disconnecting them.
    • Make stacks. Don’t discount the power of vertical storage! Starting at the bottom, put heavier items on the bottom of the storage unit and stack lighter items on top to get the most out of your unit.
    • Disassemble furniture. Take bulky furniture pieces apart to maximize your space. With things that can’t be disassembled, like dressers, store smaller things inside the larger furniture.
    • Use shelves to your advantage. Install shelves in your storage unit, either temporarily hanging them from the wall or using large freestanding metal or plastic shelves. Shelves make a good place to store things that are too large or oddly-shaped to fit into a box.
    • Leave no space unfilled. Don’t leave any hollow spaces in your storage unit. Look for ways to fit things inside all of the empty spaces so that you can make the most of your space. One exception to the no empty space rule? Leave an aisle just large enough to walk through so that you can more easily access your things.

    If you’re ready to store your things, 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. Currently, we’re abiding by CDC recommendations and implementing social distancing, but you can still reach us by calling (800) 378-4598 or contacting us through our website.

  • Quick Tips for Book Storage

    Are you an avid reader with a personal library collection that has outgrown your apartment? Maybe you’ve inherited some rare first-edition prints that you can’t bring yourself to part with. Or perhaps you’re a book collector looking for a safe, secure place to store your most valuable pieces.

    No matter your circumstances, self storage could be the solution you’re looking for. Before you store your books long-term, follow these tips to ensure they come out of storage looking as good as the day they went it.

    Clean Your Books

    It’s important to prepare anything you plan to put in storage. In the case of books, this means dusting them and letting the pages air out for a bit.

    If it’s been a while since you read them, you may notice that a thick, grimy film of dust has gathered on the top edge of your books. Whatever you do, avoid using wet cleaning supplies that could damage the covers, dust jackets, or pages.

    The brush attachment on your vacuum is probably the best method of cleaning your book collection. To help prevent debris from falling inside the binding, dust from the spine toward the opening of the book.

    Take the time to flip through each book and look for any insect damage or moisture. Vacuum up any bugs or eggs and let damp pages dry out completely to prevent the books from deteriorating any further.

    Catalog Your Collection

    If you have so many books that you need to put some in storage, it’s wise to take inventory. Write down the titles on a piece of paper or create a spreadsheet for a digital record. This makes it easy to look up which books you kept and which ones you put in storage if you forget later on.

    Select the Right Storage Containers

    Plastic totes and acid-free storage boxes are your best options for storing books long-term. Plastic is beneficial because it keeps moisture out, and acid-free containers help prevent yellowing and fading of the pages over time. Whatever style of storage containers you choose, keep them small so they don’t get too heavy.

    Pack Your Books Correctly

    Group your collection by size and binding type (hardback or paperback) to make packing easier and more efficient. If you have any particularly fragile, valuable, or sentimental books, wrap them individually in packing paper or bubble wrap for extra protection.

    There are three recommended ways to pack books for storage:

    • Pack hardback books upright, as if the bottom of the box was a shelf in a bookcase. Two rows of books should sit spine to spine. If there’s a third row, separate them with crumpled packing paper so the pages don’t touch.
    • Lay paperback books flat with packing paper between each one to prevent the covers from touching.
    • Pack books with their spines face-down. Never pack books with the spines face-up because this could permanently damage the bindings, especially of hardback books.

    Finish each box by filling any empty space with crumpled packing paper to prevent the books from shifting. To make it easier to find specific books in the future, label each box with its contents. Consider organizing your boxes by author or genre, and label them accordingly to avoid needing to list individual titles. You can write directly on the container or tape a printout to the outside.

    Choose a Suitable Self Storage Facility

    When storing books, climate control is the most important quality to look for in a self storage facility. Books are highly susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity. Climate-controlled storage prevents any extremes that could discolor or deteriorate your books.

    Security is also essential to prevent break-ins. A storage facility with surveillance cameras, alarms, indoor access, perimeter fencing, and electronic gate entry provides the best level of protection for your prized book collection. Units locked with a secret digital code are also more secure than those that use a key.

    Fill Your Storage Unit

    After all your careful preparation, the final step is to load the storage unit properly. Start by laying down a plastic sheet or wooden pallet where you want to stack your boxes. Even in a climate-controlled setting, there’s still a risk of moisture accumulating on the floor. This simple precaution offers a little extra peace of mind.

    Stack your boxes no higher than chest-height to reduce the risk of toppling over. Line the wall of the storage unit rather than filling a corner so you can see all the boxes easily if you need to access one later. If you’re putting other personal belongings in storage, keep the book boxes toward the bottom of each stack. They may be on the smaller side, but because they’re so heavy, it’s safer to set book boxes on or near the floor.

    Enjoying a good book is one of life’s simple pleasures, and by following these quick tips for book storage, you can ensure your collection lives on for many years to come! To ask about reserving a storage unit for your books and other personal belongings, please contact Pouch Self Storage at (800) 378-4598. We have nine convenient locations around the Anaheim, CA area to better serve you.

  • A Step-by-Step Guide to Prepping Items for Storage [INFOGRAPHIC]

    When it comes to moving items into a storage unit, preparation is everything. Not only will preparing your belongings to be stored help prevent any damage, but it will also let you make the most of your storage unit’s space. Start by prepping your furniture. Whenever possible, disassemble furniture pieces so that they take up less space. Keep the pieces in clearly labeled boxes with their assembly instructions. For artwork, protect the sides of frames with extra cardboard and wrap the items in paper before putting them in plastic bags. If your unit is for business storage instead of personal storage, organize all of your documents, label them clearly, and ask about secure records management. Get more tips on preparing your items for storage in this infographic from POUCH Self Storage . Rely on us for a great deal on self storage in Anaheim, plus a free moving truck. You can also make moving a little easier for others by sharing this information.

    A Step-by-Step Guide to Prepping Items for Storage [INFOGRAPHIC]

  • Determining the Right Storage Solution for Your Move

    Renting a self storage and by you getting ready to move to a new home can be extremely helpful. However, before you rent a storage unit, it is important to look at units in Orange, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles Counties when you look into the various options those storage facilities may offer. Read on for assistance in determining the right storage solution for your move.

    When beginning your search for the right storage facility, it helps to start by looking online. You can find a website for just about any local storage facility, and the website will likely let you know about any current deals as well as the different services offered. You may want a self-storage unit that is climate controlled (where available), has high ceilings, drive up access, elevators and carts, etc, or you might want to choose a storage facility that offers on-site document shredding. Consider looking through third party review sites to learn about other customers’ experiences with local storage facilities.

    Are you looking for a self-storage unit for your move? Call POUCH Self Storage at (800) 378-4598 to talk to a Self Storage Specialist. Our storage facilities offer records management, packing supplies, and vehicle storage in the Orange, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles County areas. If you would like to learn more about our services, feel free to visit our website or stop in and meet with one of our Self Storage Specialists today.

  • Packing Your Sofa for Storage

    Whether you are looking to permanently free up space around your home or office or just need to use self-storage in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, or Orange County, it is important to store your belongings properly. Different types of belongings should be packed and stored differently; it helps to look into the recommended packing methods beforehand. Read on for a few tips for packing your sofa for storage.

    Clean and Polish
    When it comes to preparing your sofa for storage, it helps to start by cleaning the fabric . Be sure to choose a cleaner that is designed for your sofa’s material, wipe it down thoroughly, and allow it to dry completely. You can then polish any wooden or metal components with the appropriate cleaner. It often helps to consult manufacturer directions if you are unsure what type of cleaner or polish to use for your sofa.

    Disassemble
    Once your sofa is clean and completely dry, detach the legs and store them separately—keep in mind, however, that you should only complete this step if the legs are designed for detachment. You can cover each leg in packing material if you are worried about them scratching or bumping each other in a bag or box.

    Cover and Store
    Each sofa pillow should be stored in its own plastic bag when you take it to the self-storage unit. Lay down a pallet and cover it in a tarp or other plastic covering, and then use bubble wrap to protect any fragile areas of your sofa before placing it on top of the pallet. Keep the sofa away from walls and potentially hazardous objects, and try to avoid storing it on one of its end s . Finally, cover the sofa with a sheet or storage bag.

    For more tips on packing your sofa for storage, call a POUCH Self Storage Specialist at (800) 378-4598. We are proud to serve the Orange, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino County areas with jumbo storage units (where available), our “We Move You Free” program, on-site document shredding, and many other services. Feel free to visit our website or stop in and see us at any of our eight locations to learn more about our services.

  • Tips for Preserving Family Documents

    Family Documents When preparing boxes for moving, you may find you have important papers and documents such as; birth/death certificates, immunization records, marriage or divorce certificates, to treasured newspaper clippings. Of the many types of paper items you may want to place into your personal storage , the right packing supplies and care, can ensure your documentation will not deteriorate over time. Below is an overview of tips for preserving family documents.

    Choose a Climate Controlled Environment
    Extremely hot or cold temperatures can be extremely hard on paper documents . To ensure your documents are protected when placed in storage, it is essential to choose a climate controlled storage unit. Climate controlled storage will ensure your papers are kept at a consistent temperature, and are not exposed to extreme heat or freezing.

    Avoid Direct Sunlight
    Sunlight can cause yellowing and deterioration on your documents. This phenomenon of yellowing is caused by a reaction between the chemicals in the paper and ink. Placing your documents into storage safeguard them for many years.

    Select Appropriate Storage Containers
    Another way to safeguard and preserve them is to choose appropriate storage containers. Placing them in properly sized envelopes, ensures they are not exposed to light or other forms of damage.

    At POUCH Self Storage, we can provide you with all of the packing supplies you need to get started on your upcoming move. If you are seeking high quality Self-Storage, you can be rest assured that our storage facilities are a top choice for all of your moving and storage needs. To schedule a free moving truck move, using our “We Move Your Free” program from one of our Orange County locations , call us at (800) 378-4598.

  • How to Maximize the Space in Your Home

    Is your home starting to feel cluttered, cramped, or just disorganized? Regardless of how large your home or office is, it’s easy for your belongings to start taking over more of your space. Clothing, furnishings, accessories, office equipment and more can begin to occupy space that was once open, which can make your house feel less welcoming to you and your guests. In order to maximize the space in your home , it may be a good idea to rent a self-storage unit where you can keep things that you won’t need for a few months at a time. Read on to learn about more ways to maximize the space in your home.

    Box for Storage

    In the Kitchen
    Your kitchen is the center of activity in your home, so it’s important for it to be spacious and well organized. Use the room’s vertical space to maximize storage areas—for example; you can consider hanging pots and pans above the stove or island instead of stacking them in cabinets, drawers or inside your oven. This will give you more space under your countertops, and help keep clutter from piling up. Consider going through your cabinets to toss or donate old dry goods or canned food you don’t need, also think about installing drawer organizers to keep your kitchen gadgets sorted.

    In the Bedroom
    No matter what size closets you have, your bedroom may tend to get messy before other areas in your home. Instead of shoving out-of-season clothing under the bed or towards the back of the closet, box them up and put them in your self-storage unit where they’ll be out of the way until you need them again. You may also want to minimize the amount of furniture in your bedroom so that you can have an open, spacious place to get ready in the morning, and or wind down at the end of the day. Keep just the essentials in your bedroom, and move the extraneous furniture to your storage unit.

    Your storage unit at POUCH Self Storage in Orange, San Bernardino and Los Angeles County will safely hold the belongings you want to keep but don’t need in your home. Contact us at (888) 927-6052 or visit us at www.pouchselfstorage.com to learn about our services . Don’t forget to ask about our “We Move You Free” program to transport your belongings!