Storage units serve many purposes. They provide a place to keep belongings during home renovations, store excess furniture when downsizing, and safely house business documents or inventory. While you can access your rental whenever you need to, many items remain untouched in storage for years. If you’re ready to reassess your belongings, use the following tips to help you effectively clean out your unit.

How to Clean Out a Storage Unit

1. Give Yourself Time

Depending on the size of the storage unit and its contents, cleaning it out can take a lot of time. Block off an entire day to go through your items without distraction. When you schedule this ahead of time, you’re more likely to commit to the process and stay motivated throughout the project. 

2. Take a Detailed Inventory

You may not remember every single item that you've ever put in your storage unit, so you need to take a detailed inventory of your possessions before you start the clean-out process. As you take everything out of the space, write down what you find, from large furniture to what’s inside each packed box.

3. Create Categories

After taking inventory, start creating categories. Group the items based on whether you want to keep, donate, sell, or throw them away. Make sure you have extra boxes so you can place objects directly into their respective categories. Not only does this help you get rid of things you no longer want or need, but it also clears up space for other belongings. 

Most donation centers have a drive-thru drop-off line where you don't even have to get out of your car. Ask buyers to pick up large furniture or appliances you're selling from the storage facility to make the process easier.

4. Perform a Deep Clean 

Once everything is out of the storage unit, clean it thoroughly. Use a broom to remove lingering debris, dust, or small items left behind. This gives you a clean slate, so you can put containers and possessions you're keeping back inside in an organized manner.

5. Methodically Rearrange  

Rather than haphazardly putting the items you want to keep back into your storage unit, take the time to methodically plan a layout. Larger items should go in first toward the back, followed by any medium to small objects. Try to keep a pathway throughout the space to allow for easier access throughout the year. Consider keeping an inventory list or map near the front so you know where your belongings are.

Turn to Meridian Mini Storage in Kalispell and Evergreen, MT, for all of your self-storage needs. They provide conveniently located storage units, ranging in size from 5-by-10 feet to 20-by-40 feet. All spaces are designed to meet your needs and keep your belongings secure. This facility is fenced with a locked gate, and each customer has their own code. Visit the website to learn more about their storage policies, or call (406) 257-5566 to reserve a unit.