10 Things you Should Put in Storage to Free up Space in Your Home

Is your Boston home feeling a little cramped lately?

Have you recently downsized to a smaller place and run out of room?

Do you need to make space for a new member of the family or an exciting new hobby or business venture?

When you run out of room in your home, you don’t have to get rid of your possessions. Instead, you can house them safely and securely in a storage unit. Boston storage units are an excellent way to clear up space in your home for your everyday life.

What To Put In Long-Term Storage To Declutter Your Boston Home

1. Furniture

Furniture typically takes up the most space in our homes of any possessions. However, furniture is very valuable, so we don’t always want to get rid of it to save space even if it isn’t being used.

When you are looking to save space, start with your furniture.

To store furniture, start by deep cleaning the item and taking it apart if possible. Then, you will wrap the furniture in either plastic or a blanket to protect it while in storage. Choose climate-controlled storage for wood and antique furniture.

2. Antiques And Collectibles

Antiques and collectibles are investments that, over time, pay off big. However, they can also take up a ton of space. Storage is a great solution for these items.

EZ Storage offers climate-controlled units ideal for protecting and preserving these valuables. If you’re thinking about decluttering by storing your collectibles, make sure to read our collectible storage guide.

3. Electronics

Electronics are also a great item to consider for storage.

Before storing electronics, it’s important to properly prepare them to keep them safe. Start by removing all batteries and all plugged accessories and parts. Then, clean them thoroughly. Make sure to also clean their systems by removing and securing any data. Cover and protect monitors and screens, as well as any gaps and vents on the device.

Taking these steps will keep your electronics in great condition. Make sure to store electronics in a climate and humidity-controlled unit.

4. Artwork

Artwork is another valuable collectible that is ideal for storage.

For most artwork, cleaning and wrapping will protect it for long-term storage. However, rare and valuable fine art pieces need a little more attention.

Read this helpful guide for fine art painting storage. This guide will help with storing sculptures and other 3D fine artwork.

5. Clothing

In Massachusetts, seasonal clothing, like large winter parkas and boots, can take up a lot of space in our homes. Storing can get them out of the way when you don’t need them.

Other clothing to consider are things like maternity clothes, baby and children’s clothes, seasonal shoes and different-sized clothing that you do not need now but may need in the future.

6. Musical Instruments

Musical instruments, especially pianos, organs, and drum sets, can take up a lot of space. They are also extremely difficult to move. If you are not using them, it’s a great idea to put them in self-storage. When storing instruments, clean them and keep them in their original cases. Also, take off any reeds or other removable parts.

7. Books

People who love to read do not love to part with their books.

Unfortunately, both storing and moving books can be a big task. Long-term storage is the perfect solution. You get to keep your library without having to manage lots of heavy books. When storing books, stand them upright to protect the spine.

If you have a rare or collectible book, make sure to wrap it for added protection.

8. Files, Documents, And Paperwork

Most people have a lot of paperwork to track, like financial records, tax documents, and product warranties.

Long-term storage is the perfect place for these items. It gets them out of the way, but they are still easily accessible. However, do not store anything irreplaceable, like passports, social security cards, and birth certificates.

9. Household Appliances

Household appliances are another great option for what to put in storage.

Storage is ideal for small appliances like microwaves, blenders, and air conditioners, as well as large appliances like dishwashers, dryers, and water heaters.

As with electronics, it is best to keep appliances in a climate and humidity-controlled storage facility.

10. Medical Supplies

Medical supplies, including consumables like diapers, assistive aids like crutches, and other household medical items, can be stored safely outside your home. Storing these items not only helps you keep them accessible, but they can also help you track your inventory so you never run out.

When choosing medical supplies to put in storage, keep in mind that pharmaceuticals and other perishables are not recommended for storage.

What Should You Not Put In Long-Term Storage?

Storage is a great solution for most possessions. However, there are some things that should never be stored. In the city of Boston and surrounding areas, there is a long list of items that are prohibited to be stored. Other items are simply perishable and degrade in long-term storage.

What shouldn’t you put in a storage unit?

● Living animals or plants
● Cash, bonds, and stock certificates (look into a safe deposit box instead)
● Deeds and titles
● Food, beverages, and other household perishables like cleaning supplies
● Combustible, flammable, or hazardous substances
● Firearms, explosives, weapons, or ammunition
● Items that are wet, emit fumes, or have a strong odor
● Tires
● Illegal substances or goods

Most of these are pretty straightforward because they present a large risk.

Storage units are an excellent way to clear up extra space in your Boston area home. With three convenient locations in Framingham, Natick, and Newton, we offer a range of sizes, climate control, and security options for your possessions. Get started by reserving a storage unit near you!