Storing To Stay Calm

How To Store Your College Gear In The Summer

17 May 2017

Lois King

Whether you live in a dorm room or rent an apartment near your college campus during the school year, you probably have acquired quite a few new belongings. If you plan on living with your family during summer break, you may need a temporary space to store your college items. Unless your parents have a lot of extra garage space, or all of your school gear fits in your bedroom, consider renting a self-storage unit. 

You won't have to break your tight student budget as there are several different types of storage units available at different price points, depending on what amenities you desire. For instance, a unit in the interior of a storage building featuring climate control and air conditioning may cost more than an exterior unit with no cool air. Climate control may not be mandatory, however, if you live in a drier climate, so consider all of the options before signing up for a unit.

Most self-storage units are available to rent on a month-by-month basis, so you won't have to sign a contract for longer than you need. Some storage companies require that you buy a specific type of lock prior to moving your things into the unit, so inquire about that when you're filling out the paperwork.

Here are some tips for storing your college items in a self-storage unit:

1. Clean the Items

Before packing up any of your items to put into storage, make sure they are clean. Thoroughly wash and dry any kitchen items, such as utensils, pots and pans, silverware, plates and bowls. Any stuck-on bits of food can attract pests to your storage unit and cause your cookware to mold. 

Vacuum any fabric furniture items, such as couch and chair cushions, to remove debris as well. Wash, dry and fold towels, clothing and linens prior to storing as well. Place all of the clean items in cardboard moving boxes or sturdy plastic storage crates, and seal them well.

2. Label Boxes 

While you may be in a hurry to leave campus for the summer, take the time to organize all of your storage boxes. Place similar items together, and label the boxes with a bold marker in an easily visible location. If you need to retrieve any of  your belongings when you're on break, you'll know exactly where to find them.

3. Store Boxes Strategically 

Think about what items you most likely will need access to throughout the summer, and place those boxes in an easy-to-reach place in the storage unit. Also, situate the boxes with the labels facing out for convenience. 

Click here for info on finding the right storage unit.

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