How to Clean Out a Storage Unit
Cleaning out a storage unit may seem like a task just as daunting as moving, especially if it’s packed with items from floor to ceiling. The act of sorting, decluttering, and organizing can be overwhelming. However, with a strategic approach and a little elbow grease, you can simplify the process and make it much more manageable.
Keep reading to learn how to get rid of storage unit stuff with our storage cleanout tips.
1. Review Your Inventory
Before diving in headfirst, start by reviewing your inventory. Assessing what you’ve stored will give you a clearer picture of the task ahead. You might find forgotten items, some of which are no longer needed. This initial evaluation of your unit can help you determine the supplies you need and provide ample time to strategize your approach.
2. Gather Packing Supplies
The best packing tips often state that gathering your supplies beforehand can help you save time. Consider all the supplies you’ll need for your storage unit cleanout, whether taking everything with you or simply organizing your storage unit. A few items you might need include:
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Boxes
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Storage bins
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Labels
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Gloves
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Cleaning products
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Trash bags
3. Create a Keep, Sell, Donate, and Trash Pile
As you sift through your belongings, it’s handy to separate them into piles: keep, sell, donate, and toss. Items with sentimental or practical value can go in the keep pile, while those in good condition you no longer need might be sold or donated.
Unfortunately, not everything will keep its value or usability while in storage. You may even find things you no longer want. If that’s the case, you can discard these items to clear up space.
4. Sort and Organize Items
Once your piles are established, you can start sorting and organizing them into categories. These categories can be based on item type, such as clothing, books, papers, furniture, electronics, and so forth. For instance, if you’re organizing essential papers, you can use a box dedicated just to papers, notebooks, and mail.
Another effective organizational strategy is to categorize them based on room. For instance, you can group all living room items together. Then, when you reintegrate them back home, you’ll know exactly where they go.
5. Remove Items
When removing items from your storage unit, consider efficient packing techniques. For instance, ensure that heavy items like books are packed at the bottom of boxes to reduce the risk of damage to lighter goods. At the same time, if you’re storing furniture, these items may be at the back of your unit, so you’ll need to pull out all the lighter items first. This technique will also make boxes and bins easier to balance and carry.
As you pack, label each box or bin clearly. This makes reintegrating items into your home or new space much easier, especially if you’ve categorized your items by type or room.
6. Clean Your Storage Unit
After your items have all been removed from your storage unit, give the unit itself a thorough cleaning. You can use natural cleaning products to remove dust and grime. Additionally, consider dusting shelves, vacuuming floors, and mopping surfaces. This ensures the unit is clean when you need it again.
The guidelines for how to leave the storage unit if your lease ends can be found in your agreement. In most cases, you should leave it in the condition in which you found it, which means removing all your belongings and cleaning it to get it back to its original state.
Some storage facilities require a security deposit, so leaving your unit in good condition when you leave may be a prerequisite for getting your money returned. If you leave items behind or the unit requires cleaning or repairs, the facility may charge you additional fees.
7. Hire Storage Unit Cleanout Services
If you’re pressed for time, or the storage location is far from you, consider hiring a storage unit cleanout service. Yes, there are companies that clean out storage units. These professionals can handle everything from storing and packing to cleaning. They also know how to get rid of storage unit stuff you no longer want, and having a team help you can make the process much easier.
A storage unit cleanout service can manage everything from inventory management to disposal and donation. For instance, they’ll itemize and catalog your belongings to help you track your possessions, pack and store items, deep clean the unit, and work with recyclers or waste management services to help you get rid of items in your unit.
8. Prioritize Safety
While cleaning and organizing your storage unit, always prioritize safety. Avoid overpacking boxes to the point where the weight can cause strain when lifting. Even heavy-duty boxes can only hold so much, so overpacking could lead to them bursting.
You should also ensure there’s enough walking space for you to get inside your storage unit to clean it effectively. If your unit is completely packed, start by organizing items or clearing belongings to create a safe pathway that prevents tripping hazards.
Also, ensure you wear sturdy shoes, ideally closed-toed, to protect your feet. You don’t want the day to end if you accidentally drop something on your toes.
For security for sensitive items, like personal documents, consider storing them in a lockbox before loading them up. Then, if you happen to lose them while shuffling around all day, you at least know they’re safe and secure.
Any items you aren’t immediately taking with you should be left in the storage unit.
Wrapping Up: How to Get Rid of Storage Unit Stuff
Knowing how to clean out a storage unit can ensure you get your deposit back while also making the process of packing and unpacking your belongings much easier. Even if you’re leaving some stuff behind and continue renting the unit, you should keep it clean to prevent damage and ensure ease of access.
Choose storage options from Key Storage. We offer secure, accessible, and well-maintained units that cater to diverse needs to ensure your valuables remain in impeccable condition until you need them again. Browse our available units in your area today.
