How to Maximize Space in Your Storage Unit


When it comes to storage, every square foot counts—especially in a climate-controlled storage unit where you’re paying for premium protection from heat, humidity, and cold. Whether you're decluttering your home, downsizing, moving, or storing business inventory, an efficiently organized unit can save you money, time, and stress. Follow these expert tips to make the most of your storage space: 1. Choose the Right Size Unit Start by selecting a unit that fits your storage needs—not too big, not too small. Overspending on space you don’t need can add up, while cramming too much into a tight unit risks damaging your belongings. Pro tip: Make a quick inventory of what you’re storing and measure larger items. Then talk to our on-site team or use our size guide to help estimate the right size unit based on your list. Still unsure? Go a size up and use that extra space strategically. 2. Use Uniform Boxes Using same-sized boxes allows you to stack items neatly and securely, which not only saves space but also makes for a safer, more stable layout. Avoid overloading boxes to prevent them from collapsing. Plastic bins are another great option for long-term storage, as they’re durable and moisture-resistant. Don’t forget to label all boxes on multiple sides with clear descriptions. Better yet, color-code by category—seasonal decor, kitchenware, documents, etc.—to speed up the retrieval process. 3. Think Vertically Most storage units offer more height than you realize. Take full advantage of it by stacking boxes and using freestanding shelving units. Shelving lets you avoid the “box Jenga” situation and allows for easier access without constant lifting and restacking. Tip: Store heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter, more fragile items on top to maintain stability and prevent damage. 4. Disassemble Furniture Bulky furniture can eat up space fast. Disassemble what you can—take legs off tables, dismantle bed frames, remove cushions from couches. Wrap parts in blankets or padding, and store hardware like screws or bolts in clearly labeled ziplock bags taped directly to the piece they belong to. Not ...


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April 14th, 2025

College Move-In/Out Made Easy with Storage


College life is exciting, but it’s also full of change. From moving between dorms to switching apartments — or even studying abroad — students are constantly on the go. All that movement means one big question always comes up: What do I do with all my stuff? That’s where self-storage comes in. Whether you're heading home for the summer, taking a semester abroad, or just trying to avoid lugging everything across town, renting a storage unit can be a simple, cost-effective solution. Why Students Love Storage Solutions 1. Skip the Haul Home Bringing your belongings home for the summer often means overstuffed cars, multiple trips, or pricey shipping costs. With a nearby storage unit, you can leave your mini fridge, futon, and other dorm essentials close to campus—ready for your return. 2. Avoid Paying Double Rent Why pay for an apartment you’re not living in over summer break? Storage lets you move out temporarily without sacrificing your stuff. Store your furniture, clothes, and supplies at a fraction of the cost of keeping a lease going. 3. Peace of Mind While You Travel Heading off on a summer internship or studying abroad? You don’t want to worry about your belongings while you’re away. Our clean, climate-controlled units help protect electronics, books, and clothing from heat, humidity, and unexpected weather changes. 4. Space When You Need It College apartments and dorm rooms are notoriously short on space. If your closet's overflowing or you're sharing a room with others, a small storage unit can help you stay organized without sacrificing your favorite things. Quick Tips for Student Storage Success 1. Pack Smart Use sturdy plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes—they're durable, easy to stack, and help you see what's inside. Label each bin clearly so you don’t have to dig through every box when it's time to unpack. 2. Share a Unit Need just a bit of space? Grab a friend or roommate and split the cost. Many students find that a shared storage unit easily fits both of their belongings and keeps things affordable. 3. Reserve Early Spring and summer are peak seasons for storage facilities—especially near college campuses. Lock in your unit early to make sure ...


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April 7th, 2025

Navigating the Cold: Essential for Moving in the Winter


As the winter chill settles in across the Midwest, many brave souls find themselves facing the daunting task of moving during the coldest months of the year. While the picturesque snowfall may create a festive atmosphere, the reality of relocating in icy conditions presents its own set of challenges. Fear not, intrepid movers! In this blog post, we'll share valuable tips to help you navigate the process and ensure a smooth winter move to or from your self-storage unit. 1. Plan Ahead: Winter weather can be unpredictable, so it's crucial to plan your move well in advance. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and try to choose a day when conditions are expected to be milder. Planning ahead also allows you to account for potential delays caused by snow or icy roads. 2. Dress in Layers: Midwest winters can be bitterly cold, so dressing appropriately is key. Layer up to stay warm, and don't forget essential items like gloves, hats, and waterproof boots. You'll be grateful for these layers as you tackle the tasks of loading and unloading in the brisk winter air. 3. Protect Your Belongings: Cold temperatures can be harsh on your belongings. Ensure that your items are properly packed and insulated to prevent damage from the cold. Consider using extra padding for fragile items, and use plastic bins to protect against moisture. Wrap furniture in blankets to shield it from the cold and potential moisture during transit. 4. Prepare Your Vehicle: If you're using your vehicle for the move, make sure it's winter-ready. Check the tires, brakes, and battery to avoid any surprises on the road. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including a snow shovel, ice scraper, blankets, and non-perishable snacks. 5. Clear Pathways: Before the moving day, clear snow and ice from all walkways, driveways, and pathways to and from your self-storage unit. This not only ensures a safer move but also ...


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December 4th, 2023

Mastering the Art of Decluttering: Tips and Tricks for a Stress-Free Home


At Midwest Indoor Storage, we understand the importance of a clutter-free, organized living space. Decluttering your home not only creates a more serene environment but also brings a sense of control and clarity to your life. Whether you're downsizing, preparing for a move, or simply seeking a more organized space, we've compiled a comprehensive guide on how to declutter effectively. 1. Start Small: Tackling an entire house at once can be overwhelming. Begin with a single room or even a specific area within a room. Setting achievable goals will motivate you to continue. 2. The Three-Box Method: As you go through your belongings, use three boxes: one for items to keep, one for donations, and one for things to discard. This method simplifies decision-making. 3. Declutter by Category, Not Location: Instead of decluttering room by room, consider sorting items by category (clothing, books, gadgets). This method helps you see the volume of items and makes decision- making more straightforward. 4. The One Year Rule: If you haven't used or worn an item in a year, consider letting it go. Exceptions exist for sentimental items, but this rule is excellent for clearing out unnecessary clutter. 5. Embrace Minimalism: Minimalism isn't about living with as little as possible but rather about having things that add value to your life. Keep only what's essential and brings you joy. 6. Digital Declutter: Don't forget about the digital space. Organize your digital files, delete old emails, and streamline your digital life. This decluttering extends to mental space, reducing stress and improving focus. 7. Invest in Storage Solutions: Utilize storage containers, shelves, and furniture with built-in storage to keep items organized. You may even consider utilizing a small climate-controlled storage unit for items like Seasonal Decorations and extra Clothing. 8. Create a Regular Maintenance Routine: Once you've decluttered, establish a regular schedule for maintaining a clutter-free space. A few minutes daily or weekly to tidy up can prevent clutter from accumulating again. 9. Ask for Help: Decluttering can be an emotional process. Don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or even professional organizers to make the process smoother. 10. Celebrate Your ...


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November 3rd, 2023

Mastering Your Move: Top Tips and Tricks


Moving can be a daunting task, whether you're shifting to a new city, downsizing, or simply reorganizing your current space. But fret not! With the right tips and tricks, the entire process can be made smoother, especially if you rent a storage unit at a facility with excellent amenities. Here's our guide to mastering your move. 1. Start Early & Plan Ahead Remember the old adage, "A stitch in time saves nine"? It's especially true when moving. Begin your preparations early. Draft a moving checklist and timeline, so you know what tasks to tackle and when. 2. Declutter Before You Pack Now's the time to assess what you truly need. Decluttering reduces the volume of items you need to pack, move, and store. Consider donating, selling, or recycling items you no longer use or need. 3. Use Quality Packing Supplies Invest in sturdy boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and quality sealing tape. Ensure boxes are labelled with their contents and the room they belong to, making unpacking a breeze. Consider stopping by your local Midwest Indoor Storage office to pick up all the packing materials you’ll need for a smooth move! 4. Utilize Self Storage Facilities For items you don't need immediately but can't part with, consider renting a storage unit. Not only does it free up space in your new location, but it also gives you the flexibility to move at your own pace. 5. Leverage Facility Amenities: Carts & Dollies One of the often-overlooked benefits of modern self-storage facilities is the availability of moving equipment. Many facilities offer complimentary use of carts and dollies, making the transfer of items from your vehicle to your storage unit hassle-free. These tools can: Reduce strain on your back: Heavy items become easier to manage. Speed up the moving process: Transport multiple boxes in one go. Protect your items: Reduce the risk of dropping and damaging valuables. If your facility offers these amenities, make sure to take full advantage of them. 6. Break Down ...


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October 20th, 2023

Securing Your Valuables: The Importance of Climate-Controlled Storage


Discover Why Investing in Climate-Controlled Storage is Essential for Protecting Your Belongings Climate-controlled storage units provide an optimal environment for your belongings, safeguarding them from extreme temperatures and humidity levels. Whether you’re planning to store electronics, wooden furniture, or sentimental items, investing in climate-controlled storage is crucial for their preservation. In this blog, we will explore why choosing climate-controlled storage is imperative for the protection of your valuables. The first thing that makes climate-controlled storage an important investment is it keeps all of your belongings in a temperature-controlled environment. Locations that experience either scorching summers or freezing winters pose threats to stored items. High temperatures can cause warping, melting, or cracking of possessions like vinyl records, electronics, and plastic materials. Conversely, low temperatures can result in the brittleness of items, making them more prone to damage. All of our Climate-controlled storage maintains a temperature range between 55 and 80 Degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring your belongings are safe from temperature-induced harm. Apart from temperature, humidity plays a pivotal role in preserving the integrity of your stored items. Excessive humidity can lead to the development of mold and mildew, damaging furniture, clothing, and paperwork stored. Climate-controlled storage units effectively regulate humidity levels, providing a dry environment that prevents moisture accumulation and subsequent damage. Additionally, climate-controlled storage offers protection for sensitive items. Certain belongings are particularly sensitive to environmental conditions, requiring more than just a standard storage space. Items like antique furniture, paintings, musical instruments, and electronic devices need precise climate conditions to maintain their functionality and appearance over time. Climate-controlled storage offers the peace of mind that these delicate items are well-protected. The advanced insulation in climate-controlled facilities not only moderates temperature and humidity but also limits the intrusion of dust and debris. This added layer of protection is crucial for the longevity and preservation of your items, ensuring they remain in pristine condition during the storage period. Finally, we have invested in heightened security measures to protect your valuables. These include surveillance cameras, secure access controls, and daily ...


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October 2nd, 2023

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