Seasonal Storage Transition Tips Made Easy

Seasonal Storage Transition Tips Made Easy

By Tracey Winikoff

It’s like the changing of the guard. 

Winter slowly sets while spring awakens—you know, that in-between phase where you no longer need that heavy winter coat, but it’s not shorts-and-T-shirt weather either.

With this transition underway, it’s time for spring cleaning. A fresh look and a clearing-out all in one. 

A dynamic duo, if you will. 

What better time to declutter than while we’re packing away winter—holiday décor, gear, and cold-weather clothing—and pulling out tubs of our warm-weather décor, lighter clothing, and outdoor toys (we’re talking hiking, biking, and water sports)? 

It’s the perfect opportunity to comb through our belongings, decide what no longer holds a purpose or place in our hearts, and set it free, creating more space—and peace—in our homes and lives. 

Storage space is at a premium for many of us. When closets and garage shelves can’t possibly hold another thing, consider turning to a storage unit to shoulder the job for off-season items. Think of it as our year-round Hail Mary. 

Factors to Consider Before Renting a Storage Unit

• Selecting the right size unit is paramount
• Drive-up vs. internal storage unit—drive-up units are easier for directly loading or unloading your belongings, especially heavier or larger items that come into play with seasonal storage
• Is there room for storage racks to maximize space?
• Are any items temperature-sensitive?
• Check with the storage unit facility regarding potentially hazardous or illegal items that may not be allowed, such as propane tanks, ammunition, and paint

Seasonal Swap Ideas

• Winter coats, sweaters, snow and ski boots, hats, gloves
• Skis, snowboards, sleds, skates—inner tubes are great for whooshing down the slopes or cruising lazily down a river, so keep those on hand
• Snowmobiles and snow blowers
• Holiday decorations, inflatables, artificial trees and garlands, lights
• Bicycles, surfboards, paddleboards, canoes and kayaks, jet skis
• Camping gear, including tents, cots, stoves (no flammables!)

Tips for Storing Seasonal Items

• Create and maintain clear pathways or aisles so you can easily find and remove items as you desire
• Stack tubs for more vertical space
• Store clothing and linens in vacuum-sealed bags, not only to save space, but also to protect it from dust and creatures (just in case)
• Place heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter or delicate items on top
• Put bulky furniture, such as a patio table and chairs, in the back of the unit 
• Make sure everything is clean and completely dry to avoid mold issues 

How to Store Bulky Outdoor Gear

Canoes, Kayaks, Surfboards, Stand-Up Paddleboards

• If you’re able to utilize storage racks, lay each item horizontally on its own shelf, heaviest items on the bottom
• Store kayaks and canoes upside down to preserve the hull shape
• Alternatively, for surfboards and paddleboards, store them upright on their tail (place padding underneath) as securely as possible to prevent them from tipping
• Never hang boats by their handles or grab loops

Camping gear

• Store tents and sleeping bags loosely in breathable sacks (not stuff sacks)
• Place smaller items, such as tarps, cooking gear, and flashlights/headlamps, in containers

Bicycles

• Wall-mounted hooks are ideal but may not be allowed in a storage unit
• Floor stands will keep bicycles secure and off the ground
• Prevent rust by cleaning and lubricating the chains before storing the bicycles

Skis and Snowboards

• Skis can be stored vertically on their tails or horizontally on shelving; that said, it’s best to not store them directly on concrete or lean them against walls for long periods of time
• Store snowboards flat to prevent warping 
• Apply a thick layer of storage wax to the edges and bases, and don’t scrape it off until the following season
• Loosen the bindings (tension) to prevent stress on the equipment
• Use ski straps to hold skis together and protect the edges

How to Protect and Keep Your Gear in Top Condition

• Clean each item, removing all dirt, sand, pebbles, etc.
• Thoroughly dry each item to prevent mold, mildew, and rust
• Use plastic bins rather than boxes for storage, and place silica packets inside to absorb moisture
• Elevate items off the cement floor to avoid condensation
• Leave space between items to allow better air circulation

One last handy dandy tip: maximize storage unit space by placing a curtain rod or pole between two storage racks, resting each end on the shelves to create an instant hanging zone. For clothing you’d rather not squish into vacuum-sealed bags, slip them into garment bags and hang them on the rod. It’s also great for gardening, hand, and cleaning tools and supplies, and so much more. 

Feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to start? Our Get a Head Start on Spring Cleaning with These Easy Decluttering Tips guide will have you moving and grooving before you know it. 

Storage units save space and our sanity, helping keep our homes organized and clutter-free. Just imagine—no more hall closet avalanches every time we open the door! Ready for a more peaceful, streamlined life? Give us a call to learn about our storage unit options in Arroyo Grande or Santa Maria.

You’ll wonder what took you so long.