Choosing the right storage unit can feel overwhelming—especially when you want to avoid paying for space you don’t need. Whether you’re decluttering your home, storing business inventory, or making room for a big life transition, picking the perfect unit size is one of the smartest ways to save money and maximize value. Here’s how you can do it like a pro!
What Most People Get Wrong About Storage Unit Sizes
Overestimating what will fit and paying for unused space
Underestimating and ending up with a cramped, unmanageable unit
Forgetting to factor in stacking and shelving options
Step-by-Step Guide: Estimating Your Storage Needs
Make a list of everything you want to store—furniture, boxes, appliances, sports gear, etc.
Group items by size and shape for more accurate planning.
Think in terms of everyday spaces: A 3m² unit is about the size of a small walk-in closet, while a 9m² unit is more like a single garage.
Real-Life Scenarios
1-Bedroom Apartment: Most contents (bed, sofa, boxes, small appliances) fit comfortably in a 6m² to 9m² unit.
Family Home Declutter: Seasonal items, extra furniture, and sports gear can often fit in a 3m² to 6m² unit.
Business Inventory: Archive boxes, surplus stock, or displays usually require 3m² to 12m² depending on volume.
Money-Saving Tips
Declutter before you store—donate, sell, or recycle what you don’t need.
Use vertical space with shelves and stackable boxes to maximize every square meter.
Consider sharing a larger unit with a friend or family member if you both have smaller loads.
Handy Checklist: What Fits in Each Common Unit Size
3m²: Boxes, seasonal gear, a few small pieces of furniture
6m²: Contents of a 1-bedroom flat (bed, couch, appliances, boxes)
9m²: Contents of a 2-bedroom flat or small house
12m²+: Business stock, large home contents, or bulky items
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right storage unit size isn’t just about saving money—it’s about making your life easier. Take a few minutes to plan, use EeziSpace’s nifty storage estimator, and reach out for personalized advice if you’re unsure. Your wallet—and your peace of mind—will thank you.
Living in Johannesburg, we experience a delightful mix of seasons, each bringing its own unique charm and challenges. But with great weather comes the need to manage our space effectively. Ever feel like your home is bursting at the seams, especially when the seasons change? Seasonal storage is your secret weapon! In this article, we’ll explore practical tips for organizing your belongings throughout the year while keeping your space neat and tidy. Let’s dive in!
Spring Storage Tips
Decluttering After Summer
As we shake off the chills of winter, spring invites us to declutter. Start by rummaging through your summer attire—those shorts and tank tops that might never see the light of day again! Ask yourself, “When was the last time I wore this?” If the answer is over a year, consider donating or selling those items. This makes space and gives someone else a chance to enjoy what you no longer need.
Organizing Spring Clothing
Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to organize your spring wardrobe. Swap out those heavy summer clothes for lighter, breathable fabrics. Use clear bins for easy access, and don’t forget to label everything. That way, when you’re frantically searching for your favourite spring dress, you won’t have to dig through a mountain of old clothes!
Preparing Your Outdoor Gear
Spring is also a great time to prep your outdoor gear for those sunny days ahead. Whether gardening tools or camping equipment, ensure everything is clean and ready to go. If you’re short on space at home, consider renting a self-storage unit. It’s a great way to keep your yard spiffy without cluttering your garage.
Summer Storage Tips
Managing Holiday Decorations
With summer comes plenty of holidays! Once the festivities are over, it’s time to manage your decorations. Instead of cramming everything into a box, take the time to organize them. Use protective padding for fragile items, and store them in clearly labelled boxes. This will make your life much easier when the next holiday rolls around!
Organizing Your Garage for the Rainy Season
Joburg’s rainy season is no joke! Make sure your garage is organized and prepared for the downpours. Store away items that can’t get wet, and create a designated area for rain gear. This way, when that unexpected storm hits, you’ll be ready!
Storing Sports Equipment
Summer is peak season for sports! Whether you’re playing cricket, soccer, or just enjoying some family time at the park, those sports gear can pile up quickly. Use stackable bins to keep everything organized. You can even dedicate a bin for each sport to simplify things. Now, finding your soccer ball won’t be a scavenger hunt!
Autumn Storage Tips
Transitioning to Winter Wardrobe
As the temperatures drop, it’s time to transition your wardrobe. Pull out your winter coats and boots while packing away the summer clothes you won’t need. This is a great opportunity to assess what you have. If something doesn’t fit or you haven’t worn it in ages, it’s time to let it go! You can do it, we have faith in you!
Storing Garden Tools
With autumn comes the end of big dreams gardening season. Clean your tools and store them in a dry place. If you have limited space, consider a small shed or a self-storage unit to keep them safe and ready for the next planting season.
Winter Storage Tips
Storing Winter Clothing Effectively
Winter in Johannesburg can get chilly, so keeping your winter clothing organized is essential. Use vacuum-sealed bags for bulky items like jackets and blankets. This not only saves space but also keeps everything fresh and free of dust.
Holiday Decorations and Their Care
As we dive into the festive season, storing your holiday decorations properly is key. After the holidays, pack everything away with care. Use sturdy containers and keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent damage. When it’s time to decorate again, everything will be in tip-top shape!
Keeping Warm Accessories Organized
Don’t let scarves, gloves, and hats turn into a tangled mess! Use drawer organizers or small bins to keep them sorted. This simple organization tip can save you time and frustration when you’re in a hurry to head out into the cold.
Tips for Winter Home Organization
Winter means more time at home, so why not use that time to organize? Tackle one area at a time—start with the living room, then move to the kitchen. Donate items you don’t use anymore. This not only frees up space but also keeps your home feeling fresh and inviting.
Tips for All-Year Round Storage
Labeling and Organization Hacks
One of the best tricks for keeping your storage in check is labeling! Whether you’re using boxes or self-storage units, clear labels help you locate what you need without sifting through everything. Color coding can add a fun flair to your organization system.
Climate Control Considerations for Joburg
Joburg can experience some extreme temperatures, so consider climate control for sensitive items. If you’re storing electronics or important documents, climate-controlled storage ensures they’re protected from heat and humidity.
Utilizing Self-Storage Units Smartly
Self-storage can be a lifesaver for seasonal items. Choose a unit that’s easy to access and organize it by season. Stacking bins, using shelves, and keeping frequently used items at the front can streamline your experience.
Conclusion
Seasonal storage doesn’t have to be overwhelming! By implementing these tips, you can effectively manage your belongings year-round. Remember, a little organization goes a long way. So, why not start today? Tackle that clutter, and enjoy a more spacious, peaceful home!
FAQs
What items should I avoid storing in a self-storage unit?
Avoid storing perishables, hazardous materials, and live plants, as they can cause issues or violate facility policies.
How can I maximize space in a small storage unit?
Use vertical space by stacking bins and utilizing shelves. Disassemble larger items whenever possible to save space.
What are the benefits of climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage protects sensitive items from temperature extremes and humidity, ensuring they stay in good condition.
Can I access my stored items at any time?
Eezispace self-storage facilities offers access to your storage unit from Monday to Saturday. Between 08h00 – 17h00 Monday to Friday and between 08h00 – 12h30 on Saturdays.
How do I choose the right size storage unit for my needs?
Consider the volume and size of items you plan to store. It’s helpful to visit the facility to get a sense of the available unit sizes. You can also use our handy storage size estimator here.
Books are not just items on a shelf; they are treasured possessions that tell stories, capture memories, and sometimes even define our identities. Whether you’re moving house, decluttering, or simply need to store a collection for the long term, it’s essential to take steps to ensure your books remain in pristine condition.
Here’s a comprehensive guide for homeowners on how to pack and store books safely in boxes for long-term storage.
Step 1: Clean Your Books
Before packing, make sure your books are clean. Dust each book gently with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris. This helps prevent any potential damage during storage.
Step 2: Choose the Right Boxes
Opt for sturdy, acid-free boxes to prevent damage to your books. Avoid using boxes that have previously stored food or other perishable items, as these can attract pests.
Step 3: Pack Books Correctly
Stand Upright
Place books upright in the box, as if they were on a bookshelf. This position helps maintain the structural integrity of the book and prevents warping.
Use Padding
Fill any empty spaces with acid-free packing paper or bubble wrap to ensure the books don’t shift during transport. This padding will help absorb any shock and protect the books from damage.
Avoid Overpacking
Ensure that the box isn’t overpacked. This can make the boxes too heavy to lift safely and increase the risk of the books getting crushed.
Step 4: Label and Seal the Boxes
Clearly label each box with its contents and the date you packed it. This makes it easier to find specific books later on. Use high-quality packing tape to seal the boxes securely.
Place the boxes on shelves or pallets off the ground, particularly if you’re storing them in a basement or garage. This helps protect them from potential water damage.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Keep the boxes away from direct sunlight as UV rays can fade and deteriorate book covers and pages over time.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can ensure your beloved books are well-protected during their time in storage. Remember, the key is to prevent exposure to elements that could cause damage, such as dirt, moisture, and extreme temperatures.
For more expert tips on safeguarding your home items, stay tuned to our blog or contact us directly. Happy reading!
Some people have so much clutter and so much stuff all over the place, they think all it’s going to require is some elegant storage system they have in the home improvement shop and everything will be alright. This is generally what de-clutter your home means, right? (more…)
Preparing household items for storage involves several important steps to ensure they remain in good condition while in storage.
Here are some general steps you can follow to prepare household items for storage:
Sort through your items
Start by sorting through your items and deciding which ones you want to keep and which ones you can discard or donate. This will make it easier to organize your items for storage.
Clean your items
Before packing your items, make sure they are clean and dry. This will help prevent mould, mildew, and other damage while in storage. Clean items such as clothing, linens, and fabrics should be laundered or dry-cleaned before storage.
Disassemble large items
Large items such as furniture and appliances should be disassembled before storage. This will make it easier to pack and transport these items.
Use appropriate packing materials
Use appropriate packing materials such as bubble wrap, packing peanuts, and packing tape to protect your items from damage during transportation and storage. Use boxes that are sturdy and of the appropriate size for your items.
Label your boxes
Label your boxes with a description of the contents and the room they belong in. This will make it easier to find items later and when unpacking them in the correct room.
Store items in a dry, cool place
Store your items in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Consider using climate-controlled storage if necessary.
Check on your items regularly
Check on them regularly to ensure they are in good condition and to address any issues that may arise, such as pest infestations or water damage.
When hiring a storage unit, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose a unit that meets your needs and offers a secure and convenient storage solution. Here are some things to look for:
Size: The size of the storage unit you choose should be based on how much you need to store. It’s important to choose a unit that is large enough to hold your items comfortably without being too big, which can result in wasted space. You can use our storage calculator to help with this.
Location: The location of the storage unit should be convenient for you to access whenever you need to. Consider factors such as proximity to your home or workplace, ease of access, and security in the area.
Security: Look for a storage facility that has good security measures in place, such as surveillance cameras, secure gates, and on-site security personnel. This will give you peace of mind that your belongings are safe and secure.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your household items remain in good condition while in storage and are ready for use when you need them again.
