Blogs

The Post-Holiday Pack-Up: How to Properly Store Your Seasonal Decorations

Self Storage Tips


The holidays have come and gone, and the last of the festive cheer has been packed away. For many, this annual ritual involves shoving tangled lights and fragile ornaments into old cardboard boxes and hoping for the best. But a little strategic planning during the pack-up can save you time, money, and heartache next year.Properly storing your decorations not only protects your investment but also frees up valuable space in your home. It’s also a massive head start if you're planning to sell or move in the spring. Here’s how to do it right. 1. Ditch the Cardboard, Go for Plastic Cardboard boxes break down over time and are susceptible to moisture and pests. Invest in sturdy, clear plastic bins with latching lids. They are easy to stack, protect the contents from dust and dampness, and let you see what's inside at a glance. 2. Give Ornaments Their Own Space Don't just wrap fragile ornaments in newspaper and toss them in a box. Use specially designed ornament storage boxes with cardboard dividers. This prevents your delicate, often sentimental, ornaments from scratching, chipping, or breaking during storage. 3. Protect Your Wreaths and Artificial Tree Wreaths can be crushed if stored improperly. Use a hard-shell wreath box to maintain its shape. For your artificial tree, ditch the battered original box and invest in a zippered tree storage bag. This makes it easier to transport and protects it from dust and pests far more effectively. 4. Choose the Right Environment (This is Key!) Where you store your decorations matters most. Attics and basements are the worst offenders, as their extreme heat, cold, and humidity can wreak havoc: Heat can warp plastic items and degrade delicate fabrics. Cold can make plastics brittle and cause cracking. Humidity is the biggest enemy, leading to mold, mildew, and musty smells. The ideal solution is a small, climate-controlled storage unit. It provides a stable, dry environment that guarantees your decorations will come out looking as good as they did when you put them away. Plus, it frees up precious closet ...


Norm Kotoch
January 20th, 2026

New Year, New Space: Your Guide to Decluttering for a Fresh Start

Self Storage Tips


The start of a new year brings a powerful desire for a fresh start. We set goals, make plans, and look for ways to improve our lives. For many, that fresh start begins at home. Clearing out the clutter is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress, reclaim your space, and prepare for the year ahead—especially if that year includes a move.Whether you’re planning to sell your home this spring or simply want a more organized living environment, a proactive decluttering plan is key. Here’s a simple guide to getting started. 1. Tackle the Closets First The easiest and most rewarding place to begin is with your clothing. Go through your closets and create three piles: Keep, Donate, and Store. The "Store" pile is for seasonal items. Packing away bulky winter coats, sweaters, and boots in the spring (and vice-versa in the fall) can double your usable closet space. To protect fabrics from moisture and pests, a small, climate-controlled storage unit is the perfect solution for your off-season wardrobe. 2. Reclaim Your Garage and Basement These areas often become dumping grounds for items that don't have a dedicated home: old furniture, sports equipment, holiday decorations, and tools. Be ruthless. If you haven't used an item in over a year, ask yourself if you truly need it. For large, bulky items you want to keep but don't use daily (like patio furniture, kayaks, or project equipment), a storage unit is your best friend. This not only clears floor space but also protects your valuables in a secure, stable environment. 3. Create a "Memory Box" System The hardest items to part with are often the most sentimental. Instead of letting photos, children's artwork, and family heirlooms take over your living space, create a dedicated system. Use acid-free boxes to protect important documents and photographs. For irreplaceable items, a secure, climate-controlled unit acts like a personal vault, protecting your cherished memories from the temperature and humidity swings that can cause damage in an attic or basement. 4. The ...


Norm Kotoch
January 14th, 2026

4 Summer Items You Should Store Professionally This Fall

Self Storage Tips


As the crisp autumn air settles over Northeast Ohio, the season of backyard barbecues, lake days, and weekend road trips comes to a close. Now comes the annual task of packing away summer. While it’s tempting to stuff everything back into the garage or basement, these spaces often lack the security and stable environment needed to protect your valuable equipment. Overcrowded garages lead to clutter, accidental damage, and leave your primary vehicles out in the cold. This year, reclaim your space and give your summer gear the protection it deserves. Here are four key summer items that benefit from professional self-storage. 1. Boats, RVs, and Classic Cars Your recreational vehicles are significant investments. Leaving them exposed to the harsh Ohio winter—with its snow, ice, and salt—can lead to rust, cracked tires, and engine damage. Even a simple garage doesn't always offer enough space or protection. The Solution: Secure vehicle storage is essential. At Security Self-Storage VII in Solon, we offer indoor and covered parking designed specifically for boats, RVs, and classic cars. Our facility shields your vehicles from the elements, and with features like 24/7 DVR surveillance and a secure perimeter, you can rest easy knowing your prized possession is safe all winter long. 2. Patio Furniture and High-End Grills Outdoor living sets and sophisticated grills can be expensive. Constant exposure to moisture, freezing temperatures, and thawing cycles will warp wooden furniture, rust metal frames, crack plastic, and damage the delicate components of your grill. Simply throwing a tarp over them isn't enough to prevent damage from moisture and pests. The Solution: A clean, dry self-storage unit is the perfect home for your outdoor gear. A 5x10 or 10x10 unit provides ample space to store your patio set, cushions, umbrellas, and grill. This not only protects them but also frees up significant space on your patio or in your garage for the fall and winter months. 3. Lawn and Garden Equipment Lawnmowers, trimmers, and other garden tools contain fuel and oil that can degrade over the winter. They also ...


Norm Kotoch
September 1st, 2025

5 Common Self-Storage Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Self Storage Tips


Renting a self-storage unit is a fantastic way to declutter your home, manage a move, or store business inventory. While the process is straightforward, a few common missteps can lead to wasted money, damaged belongings, or unnecessary stress. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can ensure your storage experience is smooth and successful from day one.As the storage experts in Solon, OH, we’ve seen it all. Here are the five most common mistakes people make when renting a storage unit and, more importantly, how you can easily avoid them. 1. Choosing the Wrong Size Unit It’s tempting to grab the smallest, cheapest unit available, but this can backfire. Cramming your belongings into a space that’s too tight increases the risk of damage and makes it impossible to access items without unpacking everything. On the other hand, renting a unit that's too large means you’re paying for space you don’t need. How to Avoid It: Before you rent, make a quick inventory of what you plan to store. Our experienced staff at Security Self-Storage VII can help you visualize the space and recommend the perfect unit size for your specific needs, ensuring you get the most value for your money. 2. Underestimating the Need for Climate Control Standard storage units are exposed to Northeast Ohio’s fluctuating temperatures and humidity. This can be disastrous for sensitive items. Wood furniture can warp and crack, electronics can corrode, documents and photos can yellow, and mold and mildew can ruin upholstery and fabrics. How to Avoid It: If you’re storing anything valuable or susceptible to temperature damage, always opt for a climate-controlled unit. Our facility maintains consistent temperature and humidity levels year-round, creating the ideal environment to preserve your furniture, artwork, electronics, and important records in pristine condition. 3. Forgetting About Accessibility and Convenience Think about the physical process of moving your items. Are you prepared to haul heavy boxes and furniture across a parking lot in the rain or snow? The convenience of accessing your unit can make or break your storage experience, ...


Norm Kotoch
August 13th, 2025

Rain, Snow, or Shine: The Unbeatable Convenience of Interior Drive-Through Storage

Self Storage Tips


Imagine this: It’s moving day, and the forecast has turned. A steady Ohio rain is falling, or worse, a wet snow is on its way. The last thing you want to do is carry your valuable furniture, electronics, and boxes across a wet, slippery parking lot while trying to shield them from the elements. This is a common source of stress for anyone using traditional self-storage. At Security Self-Storage VII, we believe your experience should be simple and stress-free, regardless of the weather. That’s why we designed our Solon facility with a game-changing feature: interior drive-through access.This isn't just a minor perk; it's a fundamental upgrade to the storage experience. Here are four reasons why this amenity is a must-have. 1. Complete Protection from the Weather In Northeast Ohio, the weather is a constant variable. Our interior drive-through bay allows you to pull your car, van, or moving truck directly inside the building. You can load and unload your belongings in a bright, dry, and comfortable environment, completely sheltered from rain, snow, wind, and harsh sun. Your items stay pristine, and you stay comfortable. 2. Enhanced Security and Privacy Moving your belongings in a public parking lot can leave you feeling exposed. Our interior access bay provides a more private and secure setting. You can take your time organizing your vehicle and sorting items without worrying about prying eyes. This entire process is monitored by our 24/7 DVR surveillance system, adding another layer of security and peace of mind from the moment you arrive on the property. 3. Unmatched Comfort and Ease Hauling heavy items from a distant parking spot is physically demanding. Our drive-through design minimizes the distance and strain. You can park just steps from your unit or the elevator, making the entire process faster and easier on your back. We also provide dollies and handcarts to help you move even the heaviest items with minimal effort. It transforms a potentially grueling task into a smooth, manageable one. 4. A Seamless Transition for Sensitive Items If you're ...


Norm Kotoch
May 20th, 2025

4 Ways Your Business Can Benefit from a Self-Storage Unit

Self Storage Tips


Self Storage Tips A majority of office workers believe that being organized improves performance. However, almost half admit to being unorganized, mainly because many don’t know where to start.  Businesses and employees who don’t know where to start when decluttering their workspace can begin by utilizing a self-storage unit. This can help store extra inventory and supplies, free up office space, and archive important documents.  Below we provide four self-storage solutions that can help businesses declutter and improve productivity. 1. Document Storage Businesses are often required to keep sensitive documents on file. However, this can be a security concern if they aren’t stored appropriately and securely. A self-storage unit can provide a secure and cost-effective way for businesses to archive confidential documents, such as employment and tax records. To reduce clutter onsite and ensure files are stored safely, businesses should consider facilities that offer premium security and climate-controlled units. These features create peace of mind for business owners storing important documents and safeguard files from theft and discoloration: 24/7 video surveillance. Appropriate temperature and humidity settings. Pass-code entry gates. Individual locks and alarms. 2. Restaurant Storage Restaurant owners can better organize and manage their business by storing seasonal equipment, furniture and inventory in self-storage units. Oftentimes, there is not enough space on-site to safely and effectively store their seasonal and current items.   To create a spacious and more comfortable environment for employees and patrons, restaurants should store these items when they are not in use: Dishware. Excess inventory. Janitorial supplies. Kitchen supplies. Non-perishable food items. Patio furniture. Seasonal decorations. Additionally, restaurants can utilize a self-storage unit to preserve their wine collection in a premium wine cellar, which provides safety features, including: 24/7 surveillance. A backup generator in the case of a power outage. Individual alarms. Optimal temperature and humidity levels (56 degrees and between 60% to 70% relative humidity). 3. Short-Term Storage Businesses looking to renovate or relocate can utilize a self-storage unit to temporarily store items during the process. These businesses should also select a storage facility that offers professional moving truck valet services to alleviate stress and improve organization.  Specific needs may vary from business to business, so it’s best to select a facility that offers a variety of unit sizes to ...


Norm Kotoch
March 24th, 2025

How Much is Personal Storage? A Cost Breakdown

Self Storage Tips


Self Storage Tips Whether you’re downsizing, decluttering or transitioning your belongings into a self-storage unit, knowing the costs can help you make an informed decision.   Self-storage units offer a variety of amenities and benefits, including size and special features, but it's essential to determine if these features are worth the cost to better plan your budget.  Continue reading to find out how these factors can influence pricing and tips to budget effectively.   >>> Related Resource: Five Factors to Consider Before Renting a Self-Storage Unit Factors that Impact the Cost of a Storage Unit Although there are several diverse factors that can play a role in the cost of renting a storage unit, some of the most common include size, location, and special features.  Some of these special features can be beneficial to your storage needs, and you may want to consider them before finalizing your decision. Here’s a breakdown: Size: One of the most significant factors for a personal storage unit is size. Depending on how large or small your items are, the cost can fluctuate. Common sizing can range from 5 x 5 to 15 x 22 in some instances, making units suitable for a couple of boxes to large vehicles. Location: Depending on where your self-storage facility is located, it may be more expensive to utilize. Look for a company that offers convenient locations without high prices. Security: Premium security is a must when selecting a ...


Norm Kotoch
June 19th, 2024

Winter Car Storage Tips

Self Storage Tips


Self Storage Tips Northeast Ohio is synonymous with snow and cold temperatures from December through March each year, and sometimes even into the spring months.  When you own a seasonal or classic car, the harsh winter conditions can be detrimental to your car, thus requiring car owners to consider storage options when the car is not in use. Prior to storing your car for the winter, there are specific steps owners should take to ensure their cars are safe while not in use for extended periods of time. To help get you started, we have a compiled the following long-term and winter car storage tips from resources across the web: 1. Wash and Wax Remnants of dirt, salt, tree sap and more can cause damage to the paint if left on the car’s exterior while in storage. To ensure the exterior of the car stays looking fresh, be sure to thoroughly wash the car, and apply a coat of wax for added protection. This includes any chrome areas of the car. It is also important to vacuum and clean out the interior of the car to prevent odors from developing. 2. Keep It Covered Car covers are not just for outdoor storage. Use a breathable, clean cloth cover to prevent dust from collecting on the outside of the car during storage. 3. Change the Oil and Filter Used oil can contain contaminants that can break down the engine if left to sit for extended periods of time. Keep your engine in top condition by taking the time to change the oil and filter prior to storage. 4. Use a Fuel Stabilizer While there are differing opinions on whether to fill up the fuel tank before storing a car, be sure to use a fuel stabilizer if you elect to keep any amount of fuel in the ...


Norm Kotoch
November 30th, 2021

6 Reasons You Need Self Storage

Self Storage Tips


Self Storage Tips Look around you. See any clutter? If you do, you’re in good company, because more than 50% of Americans admit they have a clutter problem. It’s time for a change. Below, we share some of the top reasons self storage is a necessity to clear your cluttered lifestyle. 1. Seasons Have Reasons Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and Vixen have overstayed their welcome. When the calendar flips, so does your home and business. Seasonal decorations need a new home when their month is up, and self storage is just the place. Keep onsite storage for practical items you use monthly versus annually. Save that spot on your shelf for the popcorn maker you use for movie nights instead of Christmas ornaments that make a one-time appearance. You will be amazed at how much more space you have when your shelves are cleared from overflowing seasonal boxes. 2. Toys Takeover The average 10-year-old owns 238 toys. To make matters worse, they only play with about 12 toys daily. Get your playroom under control by using a self-storage unit to hold toys that haven’t been in the top 12 recently. Putting toys in storage helps prevent meltdowns associated with throwing “favorite” toys away and keeps outgrown toys nearby if there are any new additions to the family. 3. Family Changes Whether you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, going through a divorce or becoming an empty nester, self storage can help with the transition. Certain items, such as awards, photos and personal treasures don’t belong in the trash, but no longer have a space in your home. Self storage is beneficial during short-term transition processes. 4. Furniture Fills Space Furniture is one of the most common items kept in self-storage units, and for good reason. Furniture is big, bulky and often seasonal. If you entertain a few times a year, keeping extra seating and tables in a self-storage unit can make your home feel more spacious day-to-day.   Outdoor furniture is best protected during the winter months if kept in ...


Norm Kotoch
June 25th, 2021

6 Ways to Get Organized in the New Year

Self Storage Tips


Self Storage Tips Too often, we make resolutions at the start of a new year that we don’t keep by year’s end. According to research conducted by the University of Scranton, only 8% of people who set a resolution on January 1 stick to it through December 31. In fact, the same study reports that only 64% make it to February. Below, we share a few tips to help you sustain a common New Years resolution—getting organized. 1. Don’t Over-Commit In the excitement and anticipation of a new year, we can sometimes get a bit overzealous in our resolution selection. We think BIG, which can then create a mountain-sized task for us to tackle. Don’t set yourself up for quick discouragement. Instead of resolving to keep your entire house meticulously organized, focus first on your garage or select rooms. Consider creating a calendar for yourself in which you outline which areas of your home you will tackle, and when. Having a plan that is broken down into manageable tasks over a period of time can help set you up for success, and help demonstrate your progress. 2. Make It Thoughtful Make your resolution purposeful. Resolutions that have a reason behind them provide the motivation needed to remain focused. In the example of a garage, are you reorganizing your garage to sell a shed? To buy a new car? Figure out why you’re setting your resolution, and use that as a driver for success. 3. Get Rid of Unwanted Items As you go through each room or target area on your list, look for opportunities to throw away, donate, recycle or store items that aren’t needed or used. Common culprits include: Clothes or shoes that no longer fit, are out of fashion or out of season. Expired food, medicines, batteries or personal hygiene products. Paperwork and mail. (Could important paperwork be digitized to save room?) Items that are broken or missing pieces. 4. Give All Belongings a Space To aid with organization, group your belongings into categories, and then assign that category a designated space ...


Norm Kotoch
January 8th, 2021

Items per page
10
1 - 10 of 22 posts