U-Lock Mini Storage

Do you have a vintage camera from the 1920s or even the 1980s? Here are some simple tips to help you store and care for your cameras and film properly.

How to Store Cameras Properly

Analog Camera Storage

Whether you own a vintage camera from the 1920s or a 35mm camera from the 1990s, proper storage is crucial. Here are some steps to ensure your camera stays in great shape:

1. Use a Camera Case

• Hard Case: Offers the best protection from bumps and drops.
• Soft Case: Still good, but handled with care.
  

2. Remove Batteries

Before storing, take out the batteries from your camera and equipment (like light meters and flashes) to prevent leaks.

3. Choose a Climate-Controlled Location

Avoid places with extreme temperatures like garages or cars. Instead, use a closet at home or a climate-controlled storage unit.

Analog Camera Care

• Keep It Dry: Moisture can cause fungus on your lens. Use silica gel packets to absorb humidity.
• Protect the Lens: Always keep lens caps on and clean with a lens cleaning kit.
• Regular Maintenance: Periodically take the camera out, click the shutter, and turn the knobs to keep it in working order.

Film Storage

Proper Film Storage

Storing film correctly ensures it remains in good condition:

1. Refrigerate Your Film

• Short-term Storage: Keep at 10°C or lower.
• Long-term Storage: Store at -17°C or lower.
  

2. Test Before Use

If film is stored for over six months, test it to make sure it’s still good.

3. Thaw Before Use

Allow the film to reach room temperature before using. For example, a 100-foot roll of 16mm film takes about 30 minutes to thaw.

Taking the time to store and care for your analog camera and film properly will keep them in great condition, allowing you to enjoy your photography for many years. Consider using a temperature-controlled storage unit for the best results.

Cardboard boxes come in different shapes and sizes and are often used for moving or self storage because they’re economical and easy to find. However, storing these boxes long-term requires some know-how. Here’s a guide on when to use cardboard boxes and how to store them properly.

The Basics of Storing Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard boxes are great for moving, but they aren’t the best for long-term storage. After moving, it’s common to leave items in cardboard boxes and put them in storage areas like the garage, attic, basement, or shed. However, unpacking your items and storing them properly is often a better choice.

Why Cardboard Boxes Aren’t Ideal for Long-Term Storage

• Quick Deterioration: Cardboard breaks down faster than plastic and is affected by heat and humidity.
• Pest Attraction: Bugs are drawn to cardboard and can damage both the boxes and their contents.
• Moisture Damage: If stored on a concrete floor or in a damp area, cardboard can absorb moisture, leading to mold and mildew, and compromising the integrity of the boxes.

How to Store Cardboard Boxes Correctly

Maintain Your Storage Area

• Keep boxes off the ground by using shelves.
• Don’t stack boxes too high, and place heavier items at the bottom.

Use Self Storage

• If possible, choose a storage unit. This helps regulate temperature and humidity, preserving your cardboard boxes longer.

Opt for Indoor Storage

Consider storing boxes in areas with wooden floors, like an attic or indoor self-storage unit, to prevent moisture absorption from the ground.

When to Use Plastic Totes Instead

For better long-term storage, plastic totes are often a safer bet. They resist moisture, don’t break down as quickly, and protect against insects. Here’s why plastic might be a better choice:

• Durability: Plastic totes are sturdy and stackable.
• Moisture Resistance: Sealed plastic boxes keep out moisture, protecting your items.
• Insect Protection: Bugs are less likely to get into plastic containers.
• Organization: Clear plastic totes allow you to see what’s inside, and colored lids can help you organize by theme (e.g., green for Christmas items, red for Valentine’s Day).

When deciding whether to use cardboard boxes or plastic totes for long-term storage, consider the environment of your storage area. For damp or pest-prone areas, plastic totes are the safer choice. If you need quality storage boxes, visit a U-Lock Mini Storage location for a variety of sizes. And if you need extra space, consider renting a storage unit at one of our U-Lock Mini Storage for reliable storage solutions.

Storing your couch properly can keep it in great condition for years. Follow these easy tips to ensure your furniture stays safe and sound in storage.

Clean Your Couch Thoroughly

We use our couches for everything – sitting, sleeping, eating, and even as a pet bed. Before storing it, make sure to clean it well to prevent mold, dust, and damage.

• Fabric Sofas: Check if your upholstery needs a water-based or solvent-based cleaner. Generally, natural fibers like cotton shouldn’t be cleaned with water, while synthetic fibers can handle it. This helps extend the life of your couch.
• Leather Sofas: Use a few drops of olive oil on a microfiber cloth to clean and condition the leather. Rub it in a circular motion.
• Important: Ensure the couch is completely dry before putting it in storage.

Choose the Right Storage Unit Size

Picking the right storage unit is crucial. Too small a unit can damage your couch.

• Measure your couch’s length, width, and height.
• For small to medium-sized couches (like loveseats or standard three-seaters), a 5×10 ft or 5×15 ft unit is usually enough.
• For larger couches or sectionals, consider at least a 10×10 ft unit. You might need a 10×15 ft or 10×20 ft unit for extra space.
• Tip: Remember to account for protective padding and extra room for moving furniture.

Protect Your Couch During Storage

• Before Storage: Disassemble parts of the couch if possible to avoid damage during transport. Keep screws, washers, and legs together in a bag.
• During Storage: Cover the couch with sheets or drop cloths to protect it from dust and moisture. Avoid using plastic covers, as they can trap moisture and cause mold.

Use Temperature-Controlled Storage

Couches are designed to last indoors, not in garages or sheds. Temperature-controlled storage units can keep the temperature and humidity levels stable, protecting your couch from moisture, extreme temperatures, and humidity.

Keep Your Couch Off the Ground

Even in secure storage units, accidents like flooding or spills can happen. Elevate your couch using pallets, bricks, or a tarp to avoid potential damage from water or dirt.

Taking these steps will help ensure your couch remains clean and in good shape while in storage. It may take some effort, but your favorite sofa will be ready and waiting for you when you need it again.

Struggling with a chaotic closet every morning can start your day on a stressful note. If you’re navigating through a sea of unworn or out-of-season clothes just to find an outfit, it’s time for a change. Cleaning out your closet might seem daunting, but it’s a rewarding task that can simplify your life and bring peace to your mornings. Here’s a guide to decluttering and organizing your closet, ensuring you have a simple process for dressing up every day.

1. Preparation is Key

Start with gathering the essentials to make the organization process smoother. You’ll need rags, a cleaning solution (mix 3 cups of warm water with a tablespoon of dish soap), a vacuum, a dust mask, trash bags, three bins or laundry baskets, matching hangers, and a marker or pen with paper and tape. Consider adding hooks and pocket organizers for your accessories.

2. Empty Your Closet Completely

To truly tackle every inch of your closet, you need to start with a blank canvas. Remove everything from your closet. Wearing a dust mask during this process is a smart move, especially if it’s been a while since the last clean-out. You’ll likely uncover a surprising amount of dust.

3. Deep Clean All Surfaces

With everything out of the closet, take the opportunity to thoroughly clean the interior. Wipe down walls and shelves with your cleaning solution, then vacuum or sweep and mop the floor if you have hardwood.

4. Sort with Purpose

Create three categories for sorting: keep, wash, and donate. As you sift through your belongings, be honest about what fits, what matches your current style, and what you’ve actually worn in the past year. Everything else can find a new home.

5. Rent a Storage Unit

Look for underutilized areas in your closet for additional storage. Use hooks, over-the-door organizers, and even shower curtain rings for scarves to keep accessories organized. Don’t be afraid to look outside the closet for self storage solutions if space is tight. Consider renting a self storage unit to store your belongings for short-term or long-term.

6. Tackle the Laundry

With your closet empty, you might find a pile of items that need washing. Aim to address this pile within 24 hours to keep the momentum going and avoid clutter from creeping back.

7. Donate Generously

Take your donation pile and get it ready to leave your home. Whether you choose a charity or someone in need, make sure these items are out of your house quickly to avoid second-guessing your decisions.

8. Use a Daily Clothing Chart

Keep a log of your daily outfits to encourage creativity and track what you actually wear. This can highlight pieces you consistently overlook and may need to part with.

9. Maintain the Order

Commit to regular closet audits and cleaning, ideally with the changing seasons. This will not only keep your closet organized but also ensure it stays manageable year-round.

How often should you do it? Try to do a seasonal clean-out, about four times a year, to keep everything in check and adapt to changing weather and style preferences.

Engaging in a closet clean-out might initially seem like a big task, but the peace and simplicity it brings to your daily routine are immeasurable. Not only will your mornings run smoother, but you’ll also have a clearer idea of what your wardrobe actually needs, saving you from future shopping mishaps. Happy organizing!