There's a ritual storage switch that happens this time of year, as we transition through seasons and holidays. Whether you're swapping out Halloween decor for Christmas decorations, putting away summer toys to make way for winter sports, or just getting everything you need for winter, this is a busy time for self-storage units!

What to Store (and How to Do It Properly)

Now that the holiday season is upon us, we won't be needing summer toys again for several months! For adventurers, homeowners, and anyone who keeps their rental storage space year-round, storing items for the winter is an annual routine that involves putting away the warm-weather equipment and bringing out cold-weather essentials. Storing bulkier items can free up valuable garage space, so you won't have to park your vehicle outside to keep your belongings dry! Some of the items we see being brought to self-storage in November/December include fall or Halloween decorations, plus summery items like:

• Patio furniture
• Lawn mowers
• Pressure washers
• Pool accessories and toys
• Box fans and tower fans
• Window AC units
• Lightweight bedding
• Summer sports equipment (kayaks, rafts, innertubes, bikes, etc.)
• Gardening supplies
• Planters and pots
• Camping gear
• Fishing gear
• Golf clubs
• Fall décor

Follow our tips for winter storage before taking anything to a self-storage facility like Outta Sight Storage. Best practices for items on this list include cleaning before storage, ensuring items are dry (to prevent mold growth), and covering or boxing up what you can. Clear bins for smaller items will make it easier to grab them quickly when the weather warms up, and coverings for appliances will keep them dust-free and ready to use as soon as you retrieve them! When storing grills or lawnmowers in a rental storage space, make sure fuel tanks are either empty or removed, as that is considered hazardous.

What to Pull Out of Storage

Before the snowy weather sets in, it is important to gather anything you might need to combat snowy conditions, weather storms, or power outages. If roads get bad enough, you won't be able to reach your self-storage facility, so we recommend taking out what you need before the need hits! Here is a list of items you may have stored in the spring that you'll want to have on hand during the winter:

Seasonal Household Items:

• Heavy Blankets or Bedding
• Space Heaters
• Humidifiers
• Winter Clothing (gloves, coats, boots, snow gear)

Snow Equipment:

• Snow blowers
• Shovels
• Snow tires or tire chains
• Sleds, skis, and snowboards

Other Winter Essentials:

• Indoor activities & supplies (puzzles, games, movies, etc.)
• Emergency Kits
• Lanterns
• Cook Stoves
• Christmas Decorations

Whenever you pull winter gear and decorations out of hibernation from an outdoor self-storage facility, make sure to inspect your belongings for pests before taking them into your house. Make room for winter equipment at home by swapping it out with summer toys, clothes, and anything you won't need during the cold season. Don't forget – self-storage units are a great place to hide gifts and stow large purchases until Christmas Day!

Storing Seasonal Items in Montana

If you aren't currently utilizing a rental storage space to maximize room for your belongings and seasonal equipment, contact us to learn more about our facility and how we can serve your storage needs. We have a range of unit sizes available at Outta Sight Storage, so you can start the year off with efficient storage solutions! With our 24/7 drive-up access and gated entry, you can be sure everything you store for the season is secure, while quickly grabbing the items you want for your adventures!