Summer Storage Tips

Making the Most of Your Summer by Storing Seasonal Items

As summer approaches, your first task is deciding what to store. Start by purging unneeded items. Consider the size of the storage unit you need—options range from closet-sized to room-sized to garage-sized. Keep in mind that climate-controlled storage might be necessary to prevent moisture buildup during the summer months.

What Should You Consider Moving To Summer Storage?

Common seasonal items for self-storage include:

• Winter shirts, pants, and boots
• Coats and jackets
• Snowboards
• Skis
• Snow boots
• Snowshoes
• Ice skates

Storage Tips Now That Summer Is Here!

As you prepare for summer, here are some safe self-storage tips for common seasonal storage needs:

Clothes: Before storing winter clothes, empty pockets and wash everything. Fold clothes to minimize stretching. Folding also saves space and keeps garments in better shape.

Special Materials: Clean and condition leather shoes, purses, and jackets to prevent drying and cracking. Store fur in a climate-controlled unit to keep it cool. Professionally dry clean wool items and store them in breathable garment bags or boxes, using cedar blocks instead of mothballs to repel insects. Clean and fold cotton, rayon, and synthetic clothes in breathable garment bags or boxes.

Equipment: Clean snowboards and skis before storing. This includes cleaning surfaces, sharpening edges, applying fresh wax, and storing them in bags or wrapped in sheets to prevent dust, warping, or rusting. Store winter sports equipment upright on soft surfaces like carpet pieces or towels.

Boots: Remove liners and insoles from winter boots and ice skates for hand washing, then wipe down and dry thoroughly. Store boot shells with binders laced up and fastened to maintain their shape.

These tips will help you keep your seasonal items in great condition until you need them again.