3 Quick Steps to Clean Out a Storage Unit—Your Ultimate Guide

If you are looking to get rid of unwanted items, then this is the article for you. We will teach you how to clean out a storage unit in 3 steps.

By South Rock Storage

October 15, 2022

Consider a storage unit clean-out if you want to declutter your unit, free up some extra space, or end your lease. Not only will this task free up some valuable space, but it can also be a great way to get rid of old items that you no longer use or need. Following these simple steps, you can make your storage unit as clean as possible and ready for your next move.

First: Prepare

If you are preparing to clean out a storage unit, there are a few things you will need to do to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible. Here are some tips on how to prepare for storage unit clean-outs:

Consider your emotional attachment to stuff

When cleaning out a storage unit, you must consider your emotional attachment to the items. "Stuff" can become a source of comfort and security in our lives, making it difficult to let go. Here are some tips for tackling storage unit clean-out:

Create a plan. Start by creating a list of everything you want to keep and what you need to get rid of. This will help you focus on what's important and decide what to keep.
Make sure your belongings are in good condition. Items that are damaged, outdated or unnecessary will likely be discarded first.
Get organized. Once you have a clear idea of what you want to keep and what needs to go, it's time to get organized!

Inventory

Doing an inventory will help you determine what needs to be cleaned out and eliminated. Knowing what is in the storage unit makes more efficient decisions regarding how much space to take up and how to organize the contents.

An inventory also allows you to plan for future needs. If you know that you will need more storage soon, preparations can be made before the purchase. You won't have to waste time looking for a storage unit that is already taken and filled with unwanted items.

Inventorying your storage unit will help declutter your life and free up valuable space. It's time-saving, too!

Get help from friends and family and set a day

There is no shame in admitting that you need help from friends and family to clean your storage unit. Most people feel more comfortable asking for help when they know a set day for the task. This way, they can control their emotions and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Having a plan will also make the process more efficient. Start by creating a list of everything you need to clear out – physical and digital items. Next, decide on a day when everyone can come over and help you get started. Arrange transportation if necessary, and be sure to let everyone know what time to arrive.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, take time for yourself after everyone leaves. Set up some organizers so that all your belongings are easily accessible, and work through one category at a time.

Needed supplies to clean out a storage unit

If you are ready for a storage clean-out, you will need the following supplies:

A garbage bag or large container to store all of the belongings that you remove from the storage unit
Tape measure
Broom or dustpan
Lysol disinfectant
Sponges or rags

Second: Clean Out a Storage Unit

When cleaning out a storage unit, it is essential to take care of all the items inside. Items such as clothes, furniture, and appliances can be damaged if they are not handled with care. Follow these steps to clean out a storage unit:

Make a list of all the items that need to be cleaned out. This will help you determine what needs to go first.
Sort through the items on your list and put them into categories.
Sweep debris off the floor and into a trash can or bag.
Remove all broken ornaments, pictures, and other pieces of furniture that may be dangerous.
Unpack any large boxes or furniture items and set them up where they will fit in the space available.

Be in the right mood to start decluttering

When cleaning out a storage unit, the right mood is essential. If stressed or angry, you're likely to make mistakes that could lead to more clutter. Here are some tips for getting into the right mindset:

Make a list of everything in the storage unit and what needs to be taken care of. This will help you prioritize your cleaning tasks and avoid putting off tasks requiring more attention until later.
Set realistic expectations for how much time it will take to declutter the storage unit. Don't expect to clean it all in one day or even a few days. Take your time and work systematically through the items, one by one.

How to get rid of things with sentimental value

When cleaning out a storage unit, deciding what to keep and discard can be challenging. There are bound to be sentimental items that have some meaning to you, but you may not want them taking up space in your new home.

Here are a few tips for getting rid of things with sentimental value without feeling guilty:

Make a list of the items and their corresponding values. This will help you weigh the importance of each item and make an informed decision about whether or not to keep it.
Consider donating or selling the items online or at a local swap meet. This will allow you to eliminate them without having them take up space in your home or impact your budget too much.
If you cannot sell or donate the item, consider shredding it or discarding it in a trashcan outside.

Sort stuff into categories like keep, sell, and toss.

When cleaning out a storage unit, it's vital to sort items into categories such as keep, sell, and toss. This will help you focus on what you need and make cleanup easier.

Here are some tips for sorting your storage unit:

Start by grouping similar items together. For example, if you have books and magazines, put them together in one category.
Look for items that you often use and can't live without. These are the things that you should keep.
Consider tossing any item that you don't use or can't store properly. Trying to keep something that won't fit or is just a hassle to deal with is not worth your time.
Make a list of the items you want to keep and place them in specific containers or boxes.

Stay on task and get the job done.

Once you've begun the clean-out process, one of the most helpful things you can do is to stay on task. Try to avoid distractions for yourself and anyone who may be helping you. Items could easily send you down a rabbit hole of memories, but staying on task helps ensure you get the job done as quickly as possible.

Third: Content Removal

Removing any content that you no longer want or could be hazardous when cleaning out a storage unit is essential. While your storage facility may have commercial garbage cans on-site, many prohibit dumping your personal junk there. So make sure you have a plan in place to remove your contents. There are many ways to do this, and the most effective depends on what the items are.

Many of the items you may be removing could be simple household items such as old magazines, newspapers, and clothes. These can be thrown away in your own trash bin, recycled, or hauled to the local dump.

If the storage unit contains materials that must be discarded using specific disposal safety protocols, professional help or hauling to a specialty dump may be necessary.

Creative ways to get rid of storage unit stuff.

Besides hauling your items to the trash, consider if they could be repurposed. Many communities rely upon charitable donations to help those in need. If the things you're discarding are in good shape, consider donating to a local thrift store or charitable group.

Local places in Wichita, KS, to donate your stuff to

When you're ready to eliminate all the clutter in your life and start fresh, consider donating your items to local charities. Here are a few places in Wichita, KS, where you can drop off your unwanted treasures:

Goodwill Industries of Kansas

It is a non-profit organization that provides employment, training, and support for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Their five store locations in Wichita, Kansas.

Goodwill Industries of Kansas accepts donations of clothing, shoes, and household items at its donation centers. Donations are tax-deductible; however, there are some items Goodwill Industries of Kansas cannot accept due to safety concerns or lack of demand from customers (for example mattresses). If you have any questions about whether your item is acceptable for donation, please contact the location nearest you for more information about their drop-off policies before dropping off your donation!

Union Rescue Mission

This organization located in N.Hillside, Wichita, KS provides meals, shelter, and services to people in need. They accept donations of clothing, shoes, and accessories. They do not accept electronics or computers, used mattresses, appliances, furniture, and opened or expired medication.

Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

The five locations of DAV in Wichita, Kansas accept used clothing and household items to be distributed to veterans. They have a website where you can learn more about their mission and find a donation center in your area. You can also call or send them an email with any questions or concerns you may have about donating items.

Sell items from a storage unit.

If it's not going with you, not going to the trash, and isn't being donated, you could always consider selling your items from a storage unit clean-out. Whether it is something as simple as a yard sale or garage sale to taking your items to a consignment shop or pawn shop, the things you no longer want may still have a monetary value. The only thing to consider is if its possible value is worth your time trying to sell it.

Hire a junk removal company if necessary.

If you're in a hurry or don't have time to handle your clean-out, tapping a junk removal service is a popular choice. Here are a few reasons why:

They're trained to do it right. Junk removal companies have professional crews that are well-trained in storage unit clean-out service procedures. This means they will get your storage unit clean and trash hauled away in no time.
They're flexible. Junk removal companies know that not everyone is the same when getting rid of their stuff. They offer various removal services, from small moves to full container loads.
They have the equipment you need. Junk removal companies have the tools and equipment to clear your storage unit out quickly and easily - from big trucks to trailers and forklifts if necessary.

Final Thoughts

If you are in Wichita, Kansas, and looking for extra storage space, don't hesitate to contact South Rock Storage. We can help you find a storage unit that can hold all your items at a reasonable price!

Here are some reasons to choose South Rock Storage for self-storage in Wichita, KS:

Affordable
Convenient
Secure
Well-lit
Clean
Secure

South Rock Storage is a self-storage facility dedicated to providing our customers with an easy and worry-free experience. Whether you need extra space for overflow items or the perfect place to store essential documents, South Rock Storage can help.

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Long-Term Storage for Lawnmower: Tips and Best Practices

Looking for long-term storage for lawnmower equipment? Check out our tips and best practices to keep everything in top condition!

Lawnmowers are necessary for many homeowners, but they can quickly become a source of clutter and stress if not correctly stored during those winter months. If you're looking to keep your push mower, riding lawnmower, and other garden tools for an extended period, there are a few tips and tricks you should know to keep it in good condition. Here are our best practices on long-term storage for lawnmowers and equipment: Storage for Lawnmower and Lawn Equipment Depending on the type, size, and amount of lawn care equipment you own, there are various storage options to take advantage of. Here are some of the most common: Garage storage Garage storage is probably the most common option for storing equipment. Most garages have enough space to store a push mower and other lawn equipment. There are some disadvantages to this option. First, keep the garage clean and organized to maximize limited storage space. Second, you must decide what you store in the garage because space is limited. If you're keeping equipment for the winter when you don't regularly use it, will there still be room for your vehicles? Finally, just because it's stored in your garage doesn't mean you don't have to take measures to ensure your lawn equipment is maintained correctly. It will probably break down over time if you don't take care of it. And if it breaks down, you'll need to replace it with a new one. Shed There are many benefits to using storage sheds for lawn equipment. They are weatherproof and resistant to pests and decay. They also offer an easy way to organize and access tools and equipment. However, this storage method for lawnmower equipment also has disadvantages. Sheds generally do not offer any climate control. While your equipment might not be so delicate as to require exact temperatures, extreme temperature exposure during long-term storage can still be damaging. Storage for Lawnmower in a Unit Self-storage units have become popular storage options for lawnmowers and lawn equipment. Here are some of the many benefits of self-storage units: They can be cheaper than other storage options They offer the convenience of being able to store these items close to where they are used. It means you can access your equipment when you need it. They can be a good option if using your lawn equipment frequently, as they can hold multiple pieces of equipment at once. These units are also secure and usually come with 24-hour security. When you're ready to store equipment for the winter, consider using a storage unit. Often these units come with various features, such as climate control. Prepare your equipment for long-term storage If you want it to be in good shape when spring rolls around, follow these tips for long-term lawnmower storage. Remove, sharpen and inspect the blade To remove the blade, you'll need to loosen the bolts that connect it to your mower. Then, use a file to sharpen the blade and inspect it for cracks or other damage. Replace it if necessary—you can buy replacement blades at most hardware stores and lawn equipment dealerships. Alternatively, most places have businesses that sharpen and inspect blades for you. Clean your mower Clean your mower. First, remove all leaves, twigs, and other debris from the underside of the deck. Remove any buildup of clippings in the chute by using a vacuum attachment to clean it out. Then, use a brush to clean underneath each blade on both sides of your mower's deck. Finally, hose down your engine with water to remove dirt and grease buildup from moving parts (but don't let water sit anywhere for too long). Replace the spark plugs Spark plugs need to be replaced every year. If you don't, they can cause your lawnmower to run poorly and might lead to a dangerous fire. Spark plugs are easy and cheap to replace, so there's no reason not to do it. To change spark plugs, we recommend you check the owner's manual for your equipment to see specific instructions. It would be best if you replaced spark plugs every year or two, depending on how often you use your mower and how much grass clippings, debris, and dust it picks up during operation. It may also be necessary to replace them more frequently if you start having problems with starting or idling more than usual—this is an indication that there's a problem somewhere within your engine that may require professional attention before any further damage is done to other parts beyond just replacing one component! Drain and replace engine oil Your lawnmower, trimmer, and other equipment are essential tools that help you maintain your lawn. They can also be a huge pain if they break down in the middle of the cutting season or while you're away on vacation. To prevent malfunctions, ensure your equipment is ready for long-term storage after the last time you use it before winter. This includes draining all fluids from the engine and changing their oil before storing them for months at a time. Oil is vital to keeping your engine running smoothly and safely. When an engine gets cold (as in winter), its oil will thicken and become more difficult to pump through its pipelines when it warms up again later in the year when you're ready to use it again. In addition, old oil will begin breaking down over time into sludge that clogs up vital parts of your machine's internal workings if left unattended too long under these conditions. Remove the battery It's essential to remove the battery from your mower before storing it. Otherwise, you may experience damage to the equipment or injury while trying to start it in the spring. To remove the battery: Ensure all accessories are disconnected from your lawnmower, including any extension cords or power tools used during storage. Remove the key from its storage compartment on your lawnmower and store it safely. Refer to your owner's manual for instructions on removing the battery from your model and how to store the battery correctly. Lubricate essential parts Before putting your equipment away, you should lubricate all the moving parts. Lubricating your lawnmower will make springtime start-up much more effortless. Here are some steps to take: Apply a few drops of oil to each blade. Wipe away any excess with a rag or shop towel. Apply a little bit of 3 in 1 oil (or other multi-purpose oil) on all four wheels that roll and each roller shoe if yours have them. This will help prevent rust from forming in those areas and allow for easier rolling when you're ready to use it again! After cleaning out any debris inside the engine compartment, apply small amounts of motor oil where metal meets metal—especially around nuts holding things together and connecting rods near their bearings—and where bearings sit against their housing units. This will ensure smooth operation during storage without causing corrosion or damage over time due to a lack of lubrication during off-season storage periods. Store in a dry and clean space After you've finished using your lawn equipment, it's time to store it. If a storage shed isn't an option, keep in mind that there are many ways to store your gear outside a shed or garage. Perhaps the safest and most straightforward solution is within your unit at South Rock Storage! Here are some essential things to keep in mind when storing any lawn equipment: Store in a dry and clean space. It's best to find a place where the ground is level and has no moisture, such as under a carport or on your driveway. Don't let your mower sit out in the rain because this will cause rusting over time! Don't store near heat sources like fireplaces or furnaces since heat may damage certain parts of the machine, like paint jobs or plastic parts. Final Thoughts Remember to keep your lawnmower in good working order by following these tips and tricks for long-term storage. This will ensure that your lawnmower can serve you for many years. Of all the storage options mentioned, storing lawnmowers and other equipment in self-storage units is the best. It will provide a safe and secure spot for your lawnmower to be held in, protecting it from water, dust, and other elements that can damage or destroy it. It also gives you the peace of mind that it will be safely stored and not damaged. This will allow you to use your lawnmower when you need it and keep it in good shape, improving your overall working experience. If you are in Wichita, Kansas, and looking for a place to store your lawnmower, look no further than South Rock Storage. Our storage units provide you with the utmost security, making you feel confident that your belongings will be safe from theft and damage.

A smart thermostat on the wall helps regulate the temperature in your home

Featured

8 Clever Climate Controlled Storage Ideas for a Small Home

Climate-controlled storage is an excellent option if you need more space in your small home. Let’s dive in and see how it works.

At one point or another, most of us have looked around our homes and felt like we were running out of space. You might be wondering "do I need a climate controlled storage unit?" While that may be the route to go, we want to talk about long term ways to make the most of the climate control in the home you already ownThese tips will help you make the most of your small home and keep your belongings safe and protected from the elements.How to Maximize Your Space With Climate-Controlled Storage Ideas1. Install a programmable thermostat to regulate the temperature in your storage space.If your home is not properly temperature regulated, it could be damaging your stored belongings. Too much heat (and excessive humidity) can cause things like furniture, electronics, and musical instruments to warp and discolor. Excessive humidity if left unchecked can lead to mold and mildew growth. And, if the temperature gets too cold, metal can become brittle and glass can crack.A programmable thermostat is an easy way to maintain a comfortable temperature in your storage space, while also conserving energy. Simply set the thermostat to turn on when you need it and off when you don't, and you'll never have to worry about excess heat or cold damaging your belongings again. Climate-controlled units at South Rock Storage are an excellent option if this sounds like something best handled by someone else.2. Store your clothing in airtight containers to keep them fresh and free of wrinkles. Airtight storage containers will keep your clothing looking its best and prevent it from becoming musty or wrinkled. Plus, airtight storage containers are great for preventing bugs and moths from getting to your clothing.Make sure to find durable clear plastic with a snap-tight lid. You can stack multiple containers on top of each other, making them perfect for small spaces. And when you're ready to take your clothes out of storage, the clear plastic construction makes it easy to see what's inside each container.3. Store out-of-season clothing in vacuum-sealed bags.Seasonal clothing can take up a lot of space, especially if you live in an area with drastic temperature changes. If you want to free up some space, consider storing your out-of-season clothing in vacuum-sealed bags.This will not only save space, but it will also keep your clothing from taking up valuable closet space. Vacuum-sealed bags are airtight, so they will protect your clothing from dust, moisture, and insects. Plus, they are easy to store and transport.4. Place a dehumidifier in your storage area to keep your belongings from becoming damaged.Keeping your storage area dry is important to protect your belongings from moisture damage. A dehumidifier can help to remove excess moisture from the air, keeping your storage area dry and preventing your belongings from becoming damaged.Dehumidifiers come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that is appropriate for the size of your storage area. Be sure to empty the water reservoir regularly, as the dehumidifier will not be able to function properly if it becomes full. Alternatively, rent an indoor climate-controlled storage unit at South Rock Storage where temperatures remain consistent all year round without worrying about this step anymore!5. Buy a beverage fridge that can be used as a storage unit.If you are an avid wine collector, then you know how important it is to store your wine in a cool, dark place. But what if you could do more than just store your wine? What if you could also display it in a beautiful, stylish way? That's where a beverage fridge comes in.A beverage fridge is a great addition to any home, and it can be used for much more than just storing wine. With its sleek design and adjustable shelves, a beverage fridge can also be used as a storage unit for other items, such as glassware, liquor, and even cigars. So if you're looking for a versatile piece of furniture that will help you organize your home and display your wine collection in style, then a beverage fridge is the perfect option for you.7. Insulate your attic.Everyone knows they need to insulate their attic but not everyone knows the true cost of not doing it properly. Not only does this protect your belongings from extreme temperatures, but it also helps to keep your home more energy-efficient. The average home loses about 20-30% of its heat through the roof, and uninsulated attics are a major contributor to this heat loss. By insulating your attic, you can help to keep your home more comfortable and reduce your energy costs by about 15%.Other things that happen if the attic is not insulated are as follows:The pipes might freeze during the winterIn the summer, the heat will build up and could potentially cause damage to your belongings.By keeping the heat in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer, you can save money on your energy bills. In addition, insulation can help to reduce noise pollution from outside sources.8. Create an insulated wall. Homeowners who are interested in saving energy and reducing their monthly utility bills should make sure that their homes are well insulated. Insulating walls, attics, and crawlspaces can help to keep heat in during the winter and cool air in during the summer, resulting in significant energy savings.In addition, insulating your home can help to reduce noise pollution and make your home more comfortable overall. There are a variety of insulation materials available on the market, so it's important to consult with a professional to determine which type of insulation is best for your needs. By taking the time to insulate your home properly, you can enjoy substantial savings on your energy bills for years to come. Moreover, it will also help to protect your belongings from damage caused by extreme temperatures.What Are Climate-Controlled Self-Storage Units?Climate-controlled self-storage units are temperature and humidity-controlled. This means that the units maintain a constant temperature and humidity level that protect your belongings from the damaging effects of extreme weather conditions.Some examples of items you can store in climate-controlled self-storage units are:FurnitureElectronicsBooksDocumentsClothingWineTemperature and humidity can damage your belongings, so it's important to store them in a controlled environment. By renting a climate-controlled self-storage unit, you can ensure that your belongings are protected against the elements.What Are the Benefits of Using Climate-Controlled Self-Storage Units?Climate-controlled self-storage units in Wichita, KS offer a number of benefits as follows:These units can protect your belongings from damage caused by extreme weather conditions, such as heat, cold, humidity, and moisture.They can help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can damage your belongings. They can help to keep your belongings organized and easy to find.Climate-controlled self storage units also come in different sizes to accommodate your storage needs. Some of the most popular sizes and what they can fit are:5'x10'x8' - This size can fit the contents of a small closet, such as clothing, linens, and towels.10'x10'x8' - This size can fit the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, such as furniture, appliances, and boxes.Final ThoughtsWhen looking for self-storage, don't forget about the importance of climate control feature. The temperatures in Wichita, Kansas can vary a great deal. The city experiences very hot summers as high as 114 degrees Fahrenheit and very cold winters with temperatures as low as 16 degrees Fahrenheit. These extreme temperature changes can damage your belongings, so it's important to store them in a climate-controlled self-storage unit. By doing so, you can ensure that your belongings are protected against the elements and will stay in good condition. Contact South Rock Storage if you're interested in learning more about climate-controlled self-storage units in Wichita, Kansas. Our team would be happy to answer any questions that you have.

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FAQ

You have questions, we have answers.

When can I move in?

If there is a storage space available that meets your specific storage needs you can move in anytime.

How much notice needs to be given before I move out?

All contracts are month-to-month. However, we do require a 10 day notice before you move out.

What type of documentation do I need to provide in order to rent a space?

We require a government issued photo ID (example: driver’s license, state ID, or passport)

How do I make a payment?

VISA, MasterCard and Discover (credit / debit) are the preferred method of payment. We also accept checks or money orders.

Are there any items that I am not able to store?

Liquids, explosives, flammable liquids, toxic materials and perishables. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding a specific item.

Does there have to be someone to let me through the security gates?

No. At the time of signing you will be given your own security pass code that will allow you convenient access to your unit.

What forms of payment do you accept?

For your convenience, we suggest signing up for automatic payments – using your valid credit card (VISA, Mastercard, or Discover) or debit card. There is no additional charge for this convenience and it avoids late fees. We also have a drop box for after hour payments.

Do I need to sign a long-term lease?

No, we rent on a month-to-month basis unless the customer requests otherwise.

Do I need to bring my own lock?

No. As part of the Move In process, a INSET lock is included with the small admin fee. This type of lock is nearly impossible to breach – and only you will have a key for it. In addition, you may double lock the door, if you prefer.