How to Organize Your Storage Unit Like a Pro

Renting a storage unit in Oakwood, GA, is a great way to free up space at home while keeping your belongings safe and secure. However, without proper organization, it’s easy to lose track of what’s in storage. Whether you’re storing household items, business inventory, or seasonal gear, following these expert tips will help you maximize space and keep everything easy to access at Hometown Storage.

1. Create an Inventory List

When placing multiple items in storage, it’s easy to forget what’s inside your unit. Large furniture pieces—like beds or sofas—are easy to remember, but smaller items, such as decorations, electronics, or clothing, often get overlooked after months (or even years) in storage. To avoid this, keep a running list of everything inside your storage unit. You can do this with a simple notebook, a spreadsheet, or a note on your phone. Taking photos of your stored items can also be helpful, especially for insurance purposes. For extra organization, create a simple map showing where things are located inside your unit.

2. Use Clear Bins Instead of Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard boxes are an affordable option for storage, but plastic bins offer better protection and visibility. Using clear plastic storage bins allows you to see what’s inside without opening each box, making it easier to find what you need. If you prefer cardboard boxes, be sure to use sturdy, high-quality ones. You can find free or low-cost moving boxes in our office or at local stores like Walmart, Home Depot, or Dollar General in Oakwood. Many grocery stores, including Ingles, often have free boxes available near their entrance—just ask an employee!

3. Disassemble Large Furniture to Maximize Space

For better space utilization, take apart large furniture before storing it. This includes:

• Removing table legs

• Disassembling bed frames and headboards

• Storing mattresses flat to prevent damage

Position larger furniture vertically along the back wall of your storage unit (except for mattresses, which should be stored flat). If you have a dining table that won’t come apart, consider using it as extra shelving by placing stacked boxes on top.

4. Store Heavy Items on the Bottom and Toward the Back

When packing your storage unit, start by placing heavy and bulky items at the back and on the bottom. This creates a sturdy base for stacking lighter boxes on top. Items like couches, dressers, and heavy moving boxes should always be placed at the bottom to prevent crushing more fragile items.

5. Keep Frequently Used Items Near the Front

Some stored items, like holiday decorations, sports equipment, or seasonal clothing, are used more often than others. Place these items toward the front of your storage unit so they’re easily accessible.

For example:

• Summer gear (flip-flops, beach chairs, camping equipment) should be accessible during warmer months.

• Winter gear (coats, boots, holiday decorations) should be within reach when temperatures drop.

By keeping frequently used items near the entrance, you’ll avoid the frustration of digging through stacks of boxes every time you visit your unit.

6. Use Vertical Space Efficiently

Since Hometown Storage units offer generous height, take advantage of the vertical space inside your unit:

• Stack boxes and bins high to free up floor space.

• Store bookcases upright and use their shelves for smaller items.

• If you’re storing a step stool or ladder, place it near the entrance so you can reach higher items easily.

  
  

7. Label Everything Clearly

Labeling is crucial! Even if you think you’ll remember where everything is, it’s easy to forget over time. Use a permanent marker or printed labels on every box, and make sure labels are visible when you enter your unit.

For easy identification:

• Use color-coded labels for different categories (e.g., red for holiday decorations, blue for kitchen items).

• Write detailed descriptions (e.g., “Christmas Lights & Ornaments” instead of just “Decorations”).

• Place labels on multiple sides of each box so you can identify contents without rearranging everything.

  
  

8. Choose the Right Storage Unit for Your Needs

Selecting the right-sized unit is key to keeping your belongings organized. At Hometown Storage in Oakwood, GA, we offer a variety of secure, affordable storage units in different sizes. Whether you need a small unit for a few boxes or a larger space for furniture, we can help you find the perfect fit.

Need packing supplies? While we don’t sell them on-site, you can find bubble wrap and tape at nearby U-Haul locations, Walmart, or Home Depot.

9. Protect Electronics and Cords

Small electronics and cords can be easily damaged in storage. Keep them inside waterproof plastic baggies to prevent dust, moisture, and tangling. For extra protection, label cords and wrap them with twist ties or Velcro straps before storing them with the corresponding device.

10. Know What NOT to Store

Before placing items in storage, check what’s prohibited. Most storage facilities, including Hometown Storage, do not allow hazardous materials, flammable liquids, perishable food, or live animals in storage units.