using storage units for hobbies

Posted on: 4 September 2020

Do you need a self-storage unit for your patio furniture? With fall on the horizon, it's time to de-clutter your yard. Take a look at what you need to know about rental units, prep, packing, and patio furniture.

What Type of Rental Unit Do You Need?

If this is your first rental experience, you may not know what to look for in a space to store your patio furniture. Before you sign a contract or agree to a rental, consider:

• The size of your patio set. How many pieces do you need to store? The larger the set (and the more pieces you have), the bigger the rental unit you'll need. Measure each item and compare the overall dimensions with the square footage of the rental space to calculate your needs.
• The method you use to store the items. You don't need to store your patio furniture in the same way you would display it outdoors. If you can stack some of the items vertically, you can save space and choose a smaller unit.
• The material makeup of the patio set. A wooden set may require a specialized indoor environment. A climate-controlled unit allows you to store sensitive items that need a specific temperature or humidity level.

Along with sizing and environment-related issues, you also need to take into account the timing of your rental needs. If you only plan to store the patio set for a few months out of the year, you'll need to rent from a company that offers short-term or monthly contracts.

How Should You Pack the Patio Set?

Now that you've chosen the just-right rental, it's time to take the next step and pack. Unlike smaller items, you can't box or bin your patio set. Instead, you may need to:

• Disassemble the furniture. Can you take apart the table, umbrella, or chairs? Consult the manufacturer's instructions for disassembly before you get to work.
• Remove cushions and accents. Separate cushions and other accents or embellishments from chairs. Place these items into a container (such as a plastic bin) or large tote bags.
• Wrap larger items. Even though your patio furniture won't fit into a cardboard container, you still need to protect it for storage. Wrap table legs, tabletops, chairs, or other patio picks in plastic sheeting, tarps, or moving quilts.
• Secure the items. After you wrap your patio furniture, secure the plastic or moving quilt with packing tape.

After you prepare and pack the patio set, carefully move it into your new storage unit. Pay special attention to fragile parts, such as glass table tops or delicate wooden chairs.