Category: Storage Unit

As the weather changes and the seasons shift, it’s time to start thinking about proper storage for your patio cushions. Patio cushions can easily become damaged if not stored correctly, resulting in mold, mildew, fading, or even critter infestations. To keep your patio cushions in the best condition possible and prolong their lifespan, it’s essential to store them properly during the off-season. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of storing your patio cushions to ensure they remain in top-notch condition year after year.

Clean and Dry Your Patio Cushions

Before storing your patio cushions, it’s crucial to clean them thoroughly. Remove any loose dirt or debris by brushing or shaking them off. For fabric cushions, check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning recommendations. In most cases, you can simply use a mild detergent mixed with water to clean the cushions. Rinse them thoroughly with water and allow them to air dry completely before moving on to the next step. Make sure the cushions are completely dry to prevent mold or mildew growth during storage.

Remove Cushion Covers or Cushion Pads

Depending on the type of patio cushions you have, you may need to remove the cushion covers or cushion pads before storing them. If the cushion covers are removable and machine washable, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying before storing them. If the cushion covers cannot be removed, make sure to vacuum them thoroughly to remove any dirt, crumbs, or dust.

Choose the Right Storage Location

Selecting the right storage location for your patio cushions is crucial to protect them from the elements and prevent damage. Ideally, store your patio cushions in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, such as a garage, shed, or basement. Avoid storing them in areas prone to moisture, such as a damp basement or an outdoor shed that is not weatherproofed. Also, keep them away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause fading and damage to the fabric. A storage unit would be a great place to store your patio cushions because a storage unit is dry, cool, and well-ventilated. At U-Lock Mini Storage, we offer self storage Burnaby, self storage Chilliwack, self storage White Rock and South Surrey, self storage Nanaimo, self storage Victoria, and self storage Parksville services. If you have any questions about self storage, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help!

Use Protective Covers

To provide an additional layer of protection, consider using protective covers for your patio cushions. There are various options available, including cushion storage bags, cushion storage boxes, or plastic bins with lids. These storage solutions can help keep your patio cushions clean, dry, and protected from dust, pests, and other potential damage.

Properly Stack or Hang Your Patio Cushions

When storing your patio cushions, it’s essential to stack or hang them properly to prevent deformation or crushing. If you are stacking the cushions, place the larger cushions at the bottom and the smaller cushions on top. Avoid over-stuffing or piling heavy items on top of the cushions, as this can cause them to lose their shape or become damaged. If you are hanging the cushions, use sturdy hooks or hangers that can support the weight of the cushions without causing any stress or strain on the fabric.

Check on Your Patio Cushions Periodically

Even though your patio cushions are properly stored, it’s still important to check on them periodically to ensure they are in good condition. Inspect them for any signs of mold, mildew, pests, or damage. If you notice any issues, take appropriate action to address them promptly. It’s also a good time to rotate the cushions to prevent uneven wear and tear.

Properly storing your patio cushions during the off-season is essential to protect them from damage and extend their lifespan. By following these steps, you can ensure that your patio cushions remain clean, dry, and in top-notch condition for years to come.

Are you in need of extra space to store your furniture? Self-storage units are a popular option, providing a convenient and secure solution. However, storing furniture requires careful consideration to ensure it remains in good condition while in storage. To help you make the most of your self-storage space, here are 5 essential tips for safely storing furniture.

Clean and Prepare Your Furniture

Before storing your furniture, it’s important to clean and prepare it properly. Dust and debris can accumulate over time, leading to damage or even mold growth. Clean your furniture thoroughly, removing any dirt, dust, or stains. Consider using furniture polish to protect the surfaces and keep them in good condition during storage.

Disassemble any furniture that can be taken apart, such as beds, tables, and chairs. Keep all the screws, bolts, and other small parts in a labeled bag to avoid losing them. Taking apart furniture can help save space in your storage unit and prevent any unnecessary stress on the furniture during transport.

Use Proper Protection

To protect your furniture from dust, moisture, and other potential damage, it’s crucial to use appropriate protection. Consider covering your furniture with plastic or cloth covers to shield it from dust and debris. Avoid using plastic sheets directly on wood furniture, as it can trap moisture and lead to condensation, which can cause damage over time. Instead, opt for cloth covers or use breathable furniture covers designed specifically for storage.

For delicate or valuable furniture, such as antiques or leather upholstery, consider using additional protective measures such as bubble wrap, foam padding, or furniture blankets. These extra precautions can prevent scratches, dents, and other damage while in storage.

Choose the Right Storage Unit

Selecting the right storage unit is crucial for the safety of your furniture. Consider the size of the unit and choose one that provides enough space for your furniture without overcrowding. Avoid placing furniture in a unit that is too small, as it can cause damage due to limited airflow or overcrowding.

Opt for a climate-controlled storage unit if possible, especially if you’re storing furniture for an extended period. Climate-controlled units help regulate temperature and humidity levels, providing an ideal environment for furniture storage. Extreme temperature fluctuations and high humidity levels can cause warping, cracking, and other damage to furniture. Additionally, choose a storage unit with proper security measures, such as surveillance cameras, gated access, and well-lit areas, to ensure the safety of your furniture.

Properly Arrange and Stack Furniture

How you arrange and stack your furniture in the storage unit can impact its safety and condition. Place heavier and sturdier items at the bottom to provide a stable base. Avoid stacking heavy items on top of delicate or valuable furniture to prevent crushing or damage.

Leave space between furniture items and the walls of the storage unit to allow for proper air circulation. Avoid placing furniture directly on the floor; instead, use pallets or boards to elevate it and protect it from potential moisture on the floor.

Label your furniture items and create an inventory list to help you locate them easily when needed. Keep a layout plan of your storage unit to make it easier to retrieve specific furniture items without having to move everything around.

Regularly Check and Maintain Your Furniture

Even when stored properly, furniture can still be subject to damage over time. Therefore, it’s essential to regularly check and maintain your furniture in self-storage. Visit your storage unit periodically and inspect your furniture for any signs of damage, such as mold, pests, or water damage. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Moving into a new house is an exciting milestone in life. As you embark on this new chapter, it’s important to ensure that your new home is clean and ready for you to settle in. Cleaning a new house may feel overwhelming, but with the right checklist in hand, you can tackle the task efficiently. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with an essential cleaning checklist to make your new house sparkling clean and inviting. Let’s get started!

Start with a Plan

Before you dive into cleaning, take a moment to create a plan of action. Assess the different areas of your house and prioritize the tasks that require immediate attention. Breaking down the cleaning process room by room will help you stay organized and focused. You can also consider renting a self storage unit while you draft up a plan so that you have additional space to store your belongings when you’re cleaning your home.

Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Make sure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies before you begin. Stock up on essentials such as all-purpose cleaners, disinfectants, glass cleaners, microfiber cloths, mops, brooms, and vacuum cleaners. Having these supplies readily available will save you time and ensure an effective cleaning process.

Clean from Top to Bottom

Adopt a top-to-bottom cleaning approach to prevent dust and dirt from resettling. Start by dusting ceiling fans, light fixtures, and shelves. Then, wipe down walls, windowsills, and baseboards. Finally, vacuum or mop the floors to leave them sparkling clean.

Pay Attention to Kitchen and Appliances

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, so it’s crucial to give it extra attention. Clean the inside and outside of cabinets and drawers, removing any debris or dust. Thoroughly scrub countertops, sinks, and faucets. Clean appliances such as the oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher, ensuring they are ready for use.

Refresh Bathrooms

Bathrooms should be thoroughly cleaned to ensure a hygienic and fresh environment. Clean the toilet, bathtub, shower, and sink, using appropriate disinfectants. Don’t forget to wipe down mirrors, cabinets, and countertops. Replace shower curtains and liners if necessary.

Tackle Bedrooms and Living Areas

In bedrooms and living areas, focus on dusting furniture, vacuuming upholstery, and cleaning windows and mirrors. Launder or dry clean curtains and wash bedding to ensure a clean and cozy sleep environment.

Don’t Forget the Exterior

If your new house has an outdoor area, don’t neglect it! Sweep porches, patios, and decks, and remove any debris or cobwebs. Clean windows from the outside to let natural light flood into your home.

Final Touches

After completing the essential cleaning tasks, add final touches to make your new house feel like home. Light scented candles, use air fresheners, or open windows to let in fresh air. Place fresh flowers or potted plants to add a touch of nature and vibrancy.

Moving into a new house is an exciting adventure, and a clean and fresh space sets the stage for a positive start. By following this essential cleaning checklist, you can ensure that your new home is welcoming and comfortable. Remember to plan your cleaning process, gather the necessary supplies, clean from top to bottom, pay special attention to the kitchen and bathrooms, refresh bedrooms and living areas, tend to the exterior, and add final touches. With a little effort and a systematic approach, your new house will soon become a clean and inviting haven for you and your loved ones. Happy cleaning and congratulations on your new home!

Photos are cherished memories that capture moments we want to cherish forever. From family vacations to special events, these precious moments are often captured in the form of photographs. However, with the rise of digital photography, we have more photos than ever before, and finding adequate storage solutions for our physical and digital photos has become essential. In this blog post, we will explore different ways to store your photos, and we will also delve into the benefits of renting a storage unit for your cherished memories.

Organize and Digitize Your Photos

The first step in storing your photos is to organize and digitize them. Sorting through your photos, discarding duplicates or blurry shots, and organizing them into categories such as events, people, or years can help you easily locate and access your photos in the future. Additionally, digitizing your photos by scanning them or using a photo scanning service can help protect them from physical damage, such as fading or deterioration over time.

Use Acid-Free Storage Supplies

When it comes to physical photo storage, it’s crucial to use acid-free supplies. Acid-free albums, photo sleeves, and boxes are designed to prevent acid from damaging your photos, which can lead to yellowing or discoloration. Look for archival-quality materials that are specifically designed for photo storage to ensure the longevity of your cherished memories.

Create Backup Copies

Another essential step in preserving your photos is to create backup copies. Whether you have physical or digital photos, having multiple copies stored in different locations can help safeguard against loss or damage. For digital photos, consider using cloud-based storage options or external hard drives for backup. For physical photos, consider keeping duplicates in separate locations or with trusted family members.

Consider Renting a Storage Unit

Renting a storage unit can be a practical and convenient solution for storing your cherished photos. Storage units are designed to provide secure, climate-controlled environments that protect your belongings from environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, and dust. They are also equipped with advanced security measures such as surveillance cameras, access control systems, and on-site personnel, ensuring the safety of your valuable photos.

Here are some benefits of renting a storage unit for your photos:

a) More Space: If you have a large collection of physical photos or albums that are taking up space in your home, renting a storage unit can free up valuable space in your living area, keeping your home organized and clutter-free.

b) Protection from Environmental Factors: Storing your photos in a storage unit with climate control can help protect them from damaging factors like extreme temperatures, high humidity, or pests, which can cause irreparable damage to your cherished memories.

c) Enhanced Security: Storage units are equipped with advanced security measures such as surveillance cameras, access control systems, and on-site personnel, providing an extra layer of protection for your valuable photos.

d) Privacy: Renting a storage unit can provide you with privacy for your photos, especially if you have sensitive or personal photos that you prefer to keep secure and confidential.

e) Accessibility: Most storage units offer flexible access hours, allowing you to retrieve your photos whenever you need them. This can be especially beneficial if you have photos that you rarely access but want to keep safe for future generations.

When you are considering how to pack for a move, start by prepping as far in advance as possible. Packing tends to be the most time-consuming part of the whole process. With careful planning, patience and an honest assessment of your physical capabilities, budget and just how much you need to move (and what you can let go of), packing for a move can be stress-free. Here are our expert tips on how to pack for a move.

Gather your moving supplies

We recommend that you use our packing calculator before you buy or source any supplies to get a good idea of what you’ll need in terms of packing supplies.

Set up a surface for your packing station. It could be a folding table or a spare bedroom. This is where all your packing supplies will live and where you’ll be taping and labeling boxes.

When you buy boxes, remember that you’ll need different sizes plus a few specialty boxes. Professional moving cartons come in a variety of shapes and sizes that are specifically suited to fit a variety of household goods. Consider wardrobe boxes for clothes on hangers, bankers boxes for the home office, mirror and wall art boxes; and the original boxes for your TV, electronics and appliances (if you’ve kept them).

Donate, get rid of, or store items that you don’t want to move with you

• Go through your belongings room by room. Closets, cabinets, drawers – look at everything and note which items can go. Think honestly about what furniture isn’t worth moving.
• Toss, donate or sell? Organize the belongings you’re letting go of in these three categories. You can do this either by making mental notes or writing them down on sticky notes.
• Do a closet purge. Look at all your closets and pull out anything that is soiled or damaged, doesn’t fit, is out of style, or you haven’t worn in a year.
• Get rid of items you wouldn’t buy again. Ask yourself if you’d spend money on the item in question if you didn’t already have it. If you wouldn’t, you likely don’t need it.
• Hold a garage sale. If you have the time and the energy, consider hosting a garage sale. Let people know with signs, flyers and on social media, invite the neighbors, set fair prices, and put out all the good stuff you no longer need. Make an attractive display of your wares, provide refreshments, and be open to haggling.
• Sell what you can. Your gently used clothing, electronics, furniture and other household items could be sold at a number of places. ThreadUp, Poshmark or your local consignment store will take your clothes. Sell your electronics online at places like eBay, or trade them in on Amazon in exchange for a gift card. Household items, including furniture, could be sold locally through different websites.
• Make donation pickup arrangements. If you’re donating any large items like furniture and rugs, schedule a pickup with an organization ahead of time. See this list of charities that will pick up your donation. And keep any donation receipts as you may be eligible to claim this donation next time you file your taxes.
• Consider short-term storage. If you can’t commit to getting rid of some items yet, but you’re not sure if you need them, you may want to put them in a short-term storage unit and then evaluate later. If you have any questions about self storage, please feel free to contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help. Our self-storage facilities include storage units Victoria, storage units Parksville, storage units Nanaimo, storage units Burnaby, storage units White Rock and Surrey and storage units Chilliwack.

Pack as early as possible

Think realistically about how much you’ll need to get all of your packing done, and add some extra for unexpected delays or obstacles. Create and use a moving checklist to assure that you move all the items you need.

Five weeks before moving day, strategize your packing process. That means figuring out a timeline for the packing process and what you consider the non-essentials. Those usually include books, home decor items, electronics, seasonal sports gear and clothing, and seasonal decorations. They will be packed first. Expect to pack kitchen items, dinnerware, clothing and toiletries last.

Start packing items room by room, and clearly label everything

Focus on one area of a room at a time and don’t mix items from different rooms in one box. To prevent miniature knick knacks and small items from being lost or mistakenly thrown out with the packing paper, wrap them in brightly-colored tissue paper and/or label each wrapped item.

You can also color-code your boxes using a sticker of one color for each room. Assign a color to each room and stick to it. (This tip goes along with our recommendation not to mix items from different rooms.)

Clearly mark your moving boxes with the destination room, the contents of the box, and whether they’re fragile. For example: “Living room. Picture frames. Fragile.” Mark both the top and the sides of each box for easy visibility. Marking the boxes fragile is especially important if you’ve hired movers as they won’t know to be extra careful.

Whether you’re hiring full-service movers or DIY’ing to save money on your upcoming move, getting at least some moving supplies is non-negotiable. So, unless you completely outsource packing (which will be expensive but will eliminate the need to get moving supplies yourself), you’ll need certain items to protect and transport your belongings. Even if you do pay someone to pack your home, you’ll still need to pack personal essentials for moving day.

Using the right packing material and moving supplies will keep you organized and your belongings safe so your move is streamlined and stress-free. Some are essential, some are just great to have. Here’s our complete list of moving supplies, packing tips, advice on how to save money on packing supplies, how to choose the right packing and moving supplies, and FAQs.

Here are some steps you can take when it’s time to choose your packing and moving supplies.

Figure out your moving budget

The best way to pack for moving is to start earlier, rather than later. Our moving checklist suggests that you figure out your moving budget two months before the move. Before hiring a moving company or committing to a DIY move, figure out your overall relocation budget. Those looking to hire a moving company for a long-distance move should budget around $5,000. A local move, on the other hand, may only cost around $1,000. If moving for a job, be sure to also check with your employer about whether or not they’ll be covering expenses. The budget amount might fluctuate as you adjust, but it’s helpful to start with the ballpark figure at least. Please take advantage of our online moving cost calculator to figure out how much you can expect to spend.

Create an inventory

If you hire professionals, they will do an inventory too (in person or via a virtual survey), but you need to create your own inventory. This is a necessary step for several reasons, including figuring out what moving supplies you’ll need and in what quantities. Go through all your belongings, room by room and closet by closet. Include all cabinets and drawers. Get an idea of how much you’ve got and make notes of what can go. Take inventory of what furniture isn’t worth moving, and also do a closet purge. If it doesn’t fit, is out of style, and/or you haven’t worn it in a year, get rid of it. The same goes for your children’s closets, linen closets and bathroom shelves. Toss, recycle or donate what you don’t need. Sell your better yet still unwanted items. It’s an undertaking, but it’s the only way to get an idea of how much you’ve got to move and to lighten your load. If there are some items you want to keep but don’t want to bring them to the new home, consider storing the items in a storage unit. You can rent a storage unit (big or small) according to the number and size of the items you want to store. At U-Lock Mini Storage, we have storage facilities and storage unit sizes across Greater Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Our self-storage facilities include storage units Victoria, storage units Parksville, storage units Nanaimo, storage units Burnaby, storage units White Rock and Surrey and storage units Chilliwack and our team is thrilled to help you with your storage needs! Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Strategize your packing process

About five weeks before the move and boxing up your things, figure out a timeline for the packing process. Plan to pack all non-essentials first. These include items you won’t need in the weeks leading up to the move, including books, home decor items and electronics. Packing essentials should be last. These include kitchen items, dinnerware, clothing, toiletries, and any other items you’ll need in the days leading up to the move.

Plan out your packing supplies

Use our packing calculator to get a good idea of just how much you’ll need in terms of packing supplies. This way, you can be sure to get what you need on the first run to the store. To use the calculator, simply plug in the number of bedrooms in your home, the number of adults moving, your packing style (basic, average, professional), and your lifestyle (minimalist, modest, pack rat). The calculator will also give you the rundown of exactly what kind of boxes you’ll need by size and/or type, and the estimated total cost of your moving supplies. Take it with a grain of salt, as you might need fewer or more supplies as you go. You also don’t have to buy all the supplies. Some you can source for free (more on that below).

If this is your first time renting a storage unit, we can help. Whether you need to temporarily store your belongings while moving or store them long term after downsizing, renting a storage unit provides an excellent, space-saving solution. Storage facilities are a secure, convenient and easy-to-find option for those in need of storage. The majority of short term storage and long term storage facilities also offer a wide range of unit sizes and services to meet your needs. Use this first-timer’s guide to renting a storage unit to learn more about storage types, how storage works, and more.

How does self storage work?

Most storage units work similarly. Once you find a storage unit near you, you sign a contract with a storage company for a specified amount of time to secure a rental on a storage unit of your choice. A storage unit is a space in a storage facility where you store your belongings. Although some companies require a three-month minimum, most offer storage rentals on a month-to-month basis.

Rules and regulations differ among storage companies depending on the services they offer, but you only pay for the time you need the unit for (unless you break the contract, but that’s another matter). Also, it might seem obvious, but it’s illegal to live in your storage unit per state and federal housing laws. It’s also illegal to conduct business in your storage unit. Some storage facilities allow band practice, but there are restrictions like noise ordinances and no access to electricity.

Why You Should Rent a Storage Unit

People rent self-storage for more reasons than moving or decluttering. Some common reasons people rent self-storage include:

• Seasonal storage. Holiday decorations, costumes, seasonal gear clothing, and lawn equipment can all go into storage during the off-season.
• If your new home isn’t ready. New home not complete, but you need to move out of your old home? A rental storage unit can house your stuff till the move can be completed.
• Needing more space in their home. Say, you’re downsizing and decluttering but not ready to part with some of your stuff. Or a family member moves in with you and needs a guest bedroom that you were using for storage. There are many reasons people would need more space in their homes. If you’re not ready to toss, sell or donate your stuff, store it.
• House renovation. Renovating take time and create a lot of chaos and mess. To protect your belongings and clear space, you can store furniture and other belongings in storage until the renovation is completed.
• College storage. Students who don’t want to lug their dorm room belongings back home during summer break might want to rent a storage unit near campus.
• Military service. The members of the military can use this option during deployment.
• To store vehicles. If you don’t have room where you live, you can store your boat, RV, car or motorcycle at a storage facility.

How to rent a storage unit

Storage companies have their own protocols but the process of renting a storage unit has similarities. To rent storage near you:

• Determine what you need to store
• Decide what type of storage you want (full-service vs. self-storage, outdoor vs. indoor)
• Determine what size unit you’ll need based on what you need to store
• Set your budget
• Consider purchasing insurance
• Search for the storage you want to rent (see above)
• Reserve a storage unit online or in person by signing a storage unit agreement or contract (read it carefully before you sign)
• Get a move-in day date
• Invest in a good lock

What Size Storage Unit Should You Rent?

Most residential renters rent storage unit sizes such as 5’x5′, 5’x10’, 10’x10’, 10’x15’ and 10’x20’ storage units. The storage unit depends on the type and number of items you want to store. If you have any questions about storage unit sizes, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

How Long Can You Rent a Storage Unit For?

You can rent a storage unit for as long as you like. Some people even rent storage units indefinitely as an extra space for personal or work-related items. At U-Lock Mini Storage, we offer monthly contracts so you don’t have long-term commitments.

Ready to book your first storage unit? Visit or contact any of our self-storage facilities and we’ll be happy to help. Our facilities include storage units Victoria, storage units Parksville, storage units Nanaimo, storage units Burnaby, storage units White Rock and Surrey and storage units Chilliwack.

What do very old homes and small, ultramodern apartments sometimes have in common? A troubling lack of closet space and clothes storage.

Don’t panic: In these situations, you may have to deconstruct how you think about clothing storage. You’re going to literally live with your decisions, so home decor and design become part of the equation, too. It’s an interesting challenge, but one that can offer unique and colorful results.

Need some help getting started? We’ve compiled 5 simple clothing storage ideas to help you see your closet situation (or lack thereof) in a whole new light.

Add a Shelved Rack or Storage Bench for Shoes

Don’t have a hall closet near your garage to store shoes, coats, and other outdoor accessories and necessities? Depending on how much space you have to play around with, a shelved rack or storage bench could be a great option to add some additional storage compartments. 

You can also use the rack as a home for your socks. Assign each member of your family a bin and fill it with their socks, keeping those easy-to-misplace pairs together and ready to go whenever anyone heads out the door.

Use a Wardrobe Rack

If you simply want to mimic a traditional closet, a clothing rack is an economic option that could work in just about any space.

Sure, this means your clothing will be more on display than in a traditional closet, but with some creativity and organization skills, wardrobe racks can provide your room with an adorable boutique-style visual display. After all, fashion is one of the best ways to express yourself and your personality— so why not display it all in a way that feels fun and inspiring?

If your clothing rack is small, be strategic about how you fill it to get the most out of your space. 

You can also double your hanging space by using pop-can tabs. Slide your first hanger’s hook through the top of the tab and hand a second hanger from the bottom.

Use the Space Under Your Bed

The space under your bed may have been a little scary when you were a kid, but there’s no reason to be afraid: we’ve checked, and there are no monsters. The space beneath your bed is a great place to organize and protect your shoes and handbags when you’re not using them.

It’s also an excellent spot to store heavy sweaters since you’ll avoid those unwanted stretched-out shoulder marks often caused by hangers.

To take advantage of this under-bed space, we recommend using rolling storage drawers, short plastic bins, and other under-the-bed storage containers that fit nicely in this small space. All you need to do is neatly fold each piece of clothing you’re planning on storing and tuck them away until the next time you need them.

Hang Accessories on Wall Hooks

When storing your belongings and organizing your closet, it’s easy to let accessories like hats, scarves, and jewelry become an afterthought. And if you’ve accumulated a bunch of different accessories over the years, you already know that things can get really cluttered really quickly. 

Instead of tucking these items away, why not embrace your flair by making them a part of your room’s decor? 

You can easily use Command hooks, wall organizers, or even just a handful of thin nails to display and organize your jewelry— if you can situate it in an aesthetically pleasing way, even better! When it comes to trickier items, like tights and scarves, a simple clothes hanger will do the trick. Simply tie each item in a knot around the hanger and put it on display. The hanger also fits nicely on a detached clothes rack!

Rent a Storage Unit

If you simply don’t have enough space in your room to store your clothes, rent a storage unit. You can rent a storage unit that’s suitable for the amount of clothes you want to store. You can start small with 5’x5’ and go up to 5’x8’ if you have clothes plus some items you want to store!

At U-Lock Mini Storage, we have storage facilities across Greater Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Our self storage facilities include storage units Victoria, storage units Parksville, storage units Nanaimo, storage units Burnaby, storage units White Rock and Surrey and storage units Chilliwack. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about self storage and our team will be more than delighted to help.

Recreational vehicles are an attractive travel option and even provide a full-time home for some. Many say they prefer this lifestyle over staying at a hotel and enjoy the family memories of togetherness it brings. Traveling in an RV allows you to bring the comforts of home with you: your bed, kitchen and bathroom. It’s usually more economical than a hotel, too!

Whether you own a basic pop up tent trailer or a luxury bus, you will want to pack efficiently with minimal downtime. By organizing ahead of time, you allow more relaxation time while on the road. Today we are sharing a few simple RV storage ideas to efficiently pack and organize before a trip, as well as get the most out of your limited living space.

Use Baskets

You should measure all your shelves, drawers and empty spaces before going shopping for your new best friends. Baskets come in an array of sizes, colors and materials.

Organize your supplies by category in baskets, such as all the drink supplies (cups and straws) in one basket and all your eating supplies (plates and bowls) in another. The advantage to having such items in a basket is you can also bring all the supplies to the table in one round.

You can also find baskets to fit in those tight or underutilized areas such as these ones used on top of the kitchen cupboard. They are used for miscellaneous items that aren’t needed daily such as toys, games and outdoor supplies.

Leverage Pantry Space

Plan your shopping trip before your travels based on some quick meal planning. You should be able to stock the pantry with staples such as cereal, canned goods and of course fun camping snacks.

Baskets, such as the wire ones shown in the pantry here (which came from the dollar section of a popular store), contain snacks perfectly and prevent shifting while the vehicle is in motion.

Place your tall boxes, such as cereal, in the back extra space, if available. Lighter items that cannot be contained, such as crackers and other boxed goods, can be stored on the top shelf. Heavy items like bottles of water should be placed on the bottom shelf.

Use Line Drawers with Shelf Liners

One of the first items we would recommend when you set up your RV is shelf liners. Line all your shelves – kitchen, bathroom and bedroom – to give a fresh, clean surface to your shelves and drawers.

Lining drawers and shelves in your RV will also prevent spills and ease the cleanup of if an item should happen to fall or break. The liners provide an anti-slip layer so things do not move around.

Maximize Space in the Bedroom

Storage tubs work well for the space under the bed. Use them to store bathroom supplies, bedding and blankets, cleaning supplies, outdoor gear or perhaps to store shoes. Your clothing can be rolled tightly to save some space for more use of those drawers and baskets.

Use Personalized Labels

Take your organization one step further and label your bins and baskets with tags to identify what each tub contains. Identifying your clothing items help if you do not have a dresser or simply want to take advantage of the extra space in the closet. By labeling items, you make cleanup easier. There will be no question what item goes where.