Have a Messy Storage Unit? Top 5 Tips to Declutter It

Does your storage unit require decluttering with the help of a storage unit cleanout service, but you don’t know where to start? If the answer is yes, we’re here to help.

Over time, storing too many items like cartons and old furniture can make your storage unit heavily cluttered. This is why timely cleaning and organization are key to keeping it decluttered.

But you may feel overwhelmed after looking at your cluttered storage unit. That’s okay.

The good news is, your space can be salvaged with a bit of cleaning and organization.

Here are some useful tips by AAA Rousse for cleaning and managing your storage unit.

Take a look.

Examine

The worst thing you can do is go in without a plan. Before you build up the courage to take on this massive task, make sure you know what you are getting yourself into.

Pay a quick visit to your storage space and take a few photos from various angles. These pictures will help you design an organizational scheme for your space.

Now, analyze your photos one by one. Make a list of all the things you can see in the pictures. Figure out what all equipment you will require to declutter this space.

Also, you might need a shredder if you have a lot of old paperwork. Moreover, you may decide to recycle some items, and for that, you’ll need a few large boxes.

Divide

The key to completing a big task is dividing it into small goals.

So, consider breaking up your large space down into smaller parts and tackle them one at a time. This will keep you on track and won’t make you feel discouraged in the process.

You can start by creating a walkable path from one end of your giant unit toward the back if you don’t already have one. You can then separate the space into four quarters and work on them one at a time.

Sell And Donate

Are you planning to send all your scrap to the landfill? If yes, why not donate and sell some things in good condition?

For example, old jewelry, knick-knacks, and books can be easily sold on an online marketplace. Your old clothes and electronic items can find a place in a recycling factory.

If you don’t have the time to manage these things, you can simply drop the usable stuff off at a donation box. Many thrift shops, shelters, and community programs can give your old stuff a new home.

Maximize

Before you start cleaning the space, consider organizing everything. Does your storage space have things like gardening equipment, office supplies, seasonal clothing, etc.?

If yes, consider getting wall shelves, tool hangers, clothing racks, storage containers, and drawers. This will maximize your storage space.

Get Cleaning

Now that your space is organized enough to see the floor, you should purchase the necessary cleaning supplies. Start with dusting, scrubbing, and mopping the place.

You would require a broom, dustpan, recycling bags, duster, cleaning rag, bucket, garbage bags, hot water, and cleaning solution. Remember to wear gloves and a face mask to avoid allergies.

Alternatively, you can also contact a storage unit cleanout service. When you make your space bright and shiny, you move on to organizing your belongings.

Group Items

The next step is grouping similar items together. You should place all the furniture in one corner, gardening equipment in another section, and clothes in a space-separated area.

This will help you tackle each category easily and keep your storage unit well-defined.

Avoid these mistakes while grouping the items:

• Do not mix sharp equipment with delicate items.
• Never include flammable products with kids’ stuff.
• Avoid grouping fragile things along with heavy ones.

Label And Store

Labeling and correctly storing your stuff is important for making the most of your storage space.

Keep the following in mind while labeling and storing:

• Use smaller containers with lids to store small items like screws, bolts, washers, etc.
• Label all the boxes and shelves you place things on after grouping similar things together. That will give an easy path to locating things when you need them.
• Use shelf dividers and boxes for sorting and stacking items like cleaning supplies, files, office stationery, etc.
• Make sure the container sizes fit your stuff well.
• You can also buy storage unit shelves or cabinets that can hold all your items in one place. Don’t forget to consider the weight of the items.

Get More Space

Consider renting a smaller storage unit than yours if you’re running out of space. You can also get rid of your clutter by donating, selling, and recycling items that you don’t need anymore.

Tidy Up When Needed

You should schedule a visit for tidying up and organizing your storage unit once in three months. This will help you prevent clutter from building up.

When you start decluttering, don’t forget to check out online marketplaces to sell items still in good condition.

Repurpose What You Can

You can repurpose things that are still in good condition. For example, old wooden crates can be used as storage baskets or side tables. A chest of drawers can be turned into a bookshelf with the help of some tools and hinges.

If you don’t want to waste money on purchasing things repeatedly, repurposing is an easy way to save money and time at the same time.

Have Patience and Don’t Give Up

Here’s the truth – you might step into your storage unit with expectations and a decluttering timeline. However, things might not always go your way.

If you don’t see the results instantly, don’t get discouraged and give up. Remember, decluttering and organizing things isn’t a one-day process. It might take weeks or months to finish your storage unit due to various reasons like lack of time, energy, motivation, etc.

Just make sure you follow the tips mentioned above and tackle one section at a time. As long as you’re persistent and patient, you can achieve your goal!

Final Word

Life sometimes gets the best of us, and cleaning up your storage unit might be low on your list of priorities. The good news is that sorting out your space is easier than it seems.

Make sure you completely understand the tips mentioned above. Once done, we bet you’ll be on your way to tidying up that impossible-looking den!

Got any questions? Ask us in the comments!