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 Items that are damaged, outdated or unnecessary will likely be discarded first.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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How Much Fits Into a 5x10 Storage Unit?

This guide gives you some tips on how to maximize the space in your 5x10 storage unit. You'll also learn what is best suited for this size storage unit.

A 5x10 storage unit can hold a significant amount of items. Typically, this is enough space to store the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, including furniture, appliances, and boxes of personal belongings. Some people use their 5x10 storage units to store seasonal items, like holiday decorations and winter clothing. Others use them as extra space for their businesses, storing inventory, office supplies, and marketing materials. A 5x10 storage unit can probably accommodate whatever you need to keep. Please scroll down to see our guide on what fits into this storage unit size for maximum efficiency. Why is a 5x10 storage unit a popular size? For several reasons, a 5x10 storage unit is a popular size for many students and residents of small apartments in Wichita, Kansas. 5x10 storage units are perfect for one-bedroom apartments or small homes (like student housing). You can usually fit everything from a one-bedroom apartment into this size—including furniture, appliances, and boxes of personal belongings. Many people have extra furniture or items that just won't fit in their current space. These units are perfect for storing those items until you have room in your home to bring them inside. If you have a large enough vehicle to transport them to your storage unit, you can put some larger pieces of furniture inside the unit and store them until you need them. These storage units are great if you need to keep things safe from harm or the elements (like rain and extreme temperatures). Many storage facilities in Wichita, KS, like South Rock Storage, offer climate-controlled units, which is something to consider if you're storing items sensitive to temperature changes. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you know how important it is to protect your belongings from the heat, cold, humidity, and other weather conditions. Climate-controlled storage units are kept at a consistent temperature and humidity level, so you can rest assured that your things will be safe from the elements. Students who need extra space when they go off to college or university can also use these units because they won't be able to take all their belongings with them. Instead of leaving essential papers around where anyone could find them (and potentially steal), students will want somewhere safe where no one else has access except for themselves—especially when living away from home for extended periods! They're also great for people looking to move out soon but don't have a place lined up. Let's say you've decided to move out of the basement and into your place. Moving out is exciting, but it can also be a stressful time. You might not have found a new home yet, or you may be looking for something in another city where it's hard to travel back and forth between locations. If this sounds like you, then renting a 5x10 storage unit may solve one of your problems. When you rent a 5x10 storage unit, all your belongings will be in one convenient place until you find somewhere else to live—and this is much cheaper than paying movers every time you need to move something from your old house or apartment! 5x10 storage units are great for people who are just starting to move out on their own. They're also great for people looking to move out soon but don't have a place lined up. Businesses also often choose this size for storing excess inventory and office equipment. If you own a small business, you know that space is often limited. You might not have the room to keep all of your inventory on-site, or you might need to free up some space in your office for new equipment. In either case, a 5x10 storage unit can help! You can use a 5x10 storage unit to store excess inventory, seasonal items, marketing materials, and more. This way, you'll have more room in your office or storefront and won't have to worry about your things getting damaged or stolen. 5x10 Storage Unit Guide A 5x10 storage unit is perfect for storing a few pieces of furniture or several boxes. Here is a guide on how much you can fit into a 5x10 storage unit. Furniture: Depending on the size of your furniture, you can fit 1-2 bedrooms' worth of furniture into a 5x10 storage unit. This includes a bed, dresser, nightstand, and lamp. Boxes: You can fit approximately 20-30 medium-sized boxes into a 5x10 storage unit. This is an excellent option for storing seasonal items or non-essentials. Miscellaneous Items: If you have more oversized items that don't fit into boxes, a 5x10 storage unit is a great option. You can store items such as bicycles, patio furniture, and grills. A 5x10 storage unit provides you with ample space to store your belongings. You can use this unit with a few pieces of furniture or several boxes. Whether you are looking to store seasonal items or non-essentials, a 5x10 storage unit is excellent for your needs. Final Thoughts If you want an efficient way to pack up your belongings quickly and safely until your next move, look no further than the affordable 5x10 unit. In addition, many storage units in Wichita, KS, offer easy access through wide doors that can accommodate most vehicles. If you require some extra storage space and are considering a 5x10 unit, be sure to contact South Rock Storage today. We have the perfect solution for your needs, whether you're looking for short-term or long-term self-storage in Wichita, KS.

A well-lit hallway at South Rock Storage showing the climate-controlled units available

Featured

5 Most Popular Self-Storage Sizes

When it comes to self-storage, size matters. The most popular sizes for self-storage range from 50 sq.ft. to larger 300 sq.ft. units.

Self-storage units in Wichita, Kansas are becoming an increasingly popular choice for people who need more space to store their belongings. With various storage unit sizes to choose from, there's something for everyone, no matter where they live. This article will look closely at some of the most common self-storage sizes and explore how different people use them. Why Do People Use Self-Storage Facilities? Most people choose self-storage for short-term or temporary use, but it can also be a good option for long-term storage. It can be used for business or personal storage and is a convenient way to store items that are not being used regularly. There are many reasons why people use self-storage, but some of the most common causes include: Moving to a new home: If you're moving to a new home, self-storage can be a convenient way to store your belongings until you're ready to move them into your new home. Downsizing: If you're downsizing your home, self-storage can be a great way to store items that won't fit your new home. Storing seasonal items: Seasonal items, such as Christmas decorations or summer sports equipment, can be stored in self-storage units until they are needed again. Business storage: Self-storage can be an excellent option for businesses that need extra storage space to store inventory, essential documents, or other business-related items. Car storage: Self-storage units can also be used to store vehicles. It can be a convenient way to store a car you don't use often or a classic car you want to keep in storage. Generally, the smallest size option is typically referred to as a "personal locker," and it's perfect for storing small items like clothes, books, or small electronics. Larger units are helpful for those looking to keep furniture, appliances, or other oversized items that don't fit in their homes or offices. And oversized commercial units come in handy for businesses seeking extra storage space to store inventory or supplies. Plus, with climate-controlled options available in most cases, self-storage facilities make it easy to protect your belongings against damage from extreme temperatures or moisture. So whether you are decluttering your home or growing your small business, self-storage can help meet your needs and give you the extra space you need. Now that we understand some of the reasons people use self-storage let's look at the five most popular sizes and see how they are used. What Are the Most Popular Self-Storage Sizes, and What Do They Include? 5'x10' - 50 sq.ft This is the smallest unit that can hold the contents of one room and is often used by people who are moving to a new home and need somewhere to store their belongings until they can unpack. It can fit a couch, a dresser, a few boxes, and some small items. It's also a popular size for businesses that need extra space to store inventory or other business-related items. 10'x10' - 100 sq.ft A 10'x10'' storage unit is an excellent option if you need a lot of space. It can hold the contents of a three-bedroom home, from couches and tables to boxes of clothes and kitchen appliances. This is the most popular option for people moving or renovating their homes. The unit is also big enough to store more oversized items like bicycles, patio furniture, and kayaks. 10'x15' - 150 sq.ft When you need extra space for your belongings, a 10'x15' storage unit provides plenty of room. This size can hold the contents of a four-bedroom home, including sofas, beds, dining tables, and large appliances. It's often used by people who are remodeling their homes or have many items to store. If you need even more space, a 10'x20'x8' unit will give you plenty of room to store the contents of several rooms. Businesses often use this size for inventory storage or for people who are moving. 10'x20' - 200 sq.ft The 10'x20', often referred to as a "loft-size" unit, is one of these facilities' most popular and versatile sizes. This size is the perfect choice for storing the contents of a large home or apartment, including furniture, appliances, artwork, and other items. Whether moving to a new city or going on an extended vacation, a loft-size storage unit can help you keep all your belongings safe and secure while you are away. And with 24/7 access and convenient features like drive-up access and climate control options, self-storage truly has everything you need for stress-free storage solutions. 10'x30' - 300 sq.ft. The largest size offered by most self-storage facilities is the 10'x30' unit, which offers 300 square feet of space. This size is often used for long-term storage or for storing large items that won't fit in a smaller unit. Some of the items you can store in a 10'x30' unit include: A car or boat Furniture Appliances Boxes of clothes and other household items Business inventory With so much space, the 10'x30' unit is perfect for storing just about anything. So if you need a place to keep your belongings safe and sound, self-storage is the ideal solution. Final Thoughts Now that you know the most popular self-storage sizes, you can decide which one is right for your needs. Self-storage can give you extra space if you're moving to a new home or need extra space for your belongings. If you are looking for a reliable self-storage facility in Wichita, Kansas, don't go further than South Rock Storage. We offer a variety of storage sizes to meet your needs, and our friendly staff is always available to help you choose the right size for your belongings. If you're unsure which size to choose, our experts can help you select the right unit for your needs. Call us today at 316-816-8282 and remember that our units are always clean and well-maintained, so you can rest assured that your belongings will be safe and sound. We also offer climate-controlled units and 24-hour surveillance. Contact us today to learn more about our self-storage options!

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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.