Many students need a secure place to store their belongings when the semester wraps up. So, what can students put in storage? Generally, common items, including books, furniture, kitchen appliances, clothing, bicycles, electronics, and bedding, can be stored. This guide will help you decide what to store and provide tips on how to keep your items safe and in good condition until you need them again.
Key Takeaways
- Self-storage units provide a secure and convenient solution for students who need to store their belongings during breaks. They ensure peace of mind and preserve valuable items.
- Common student items for storage include books, study furniture, kitchen appliances, seasonal clothing, bicycles, electronics, and bedding. To maintain their condition, these items are best stored using specific packing materials and techniques.
- Choosing the right storage unit involves considering size, security, accessibility, and cost-effective options. Flexibility and easy management are key factors for effective storage.
Why Students Need Storage Solutions
Students often require a storage solution for various reasons, particularly when transitioning between semesters, going abroad, or moving out of student accommodation. Self-storage units provide a secure and convenient option for storing personal belongings, including books, furniture, and other possessions. These facilities are especially beneficial for those in need of extra space or safeguarding items during breaks or travel. They offer a practical way to keep items secure, organised, and in good condition, which is ideal for preserving items of sentimental or practical value.
Common Items Students Store During Breaks
During breaks, students often wonder what they can store in storage units. The reality is that almost anything can be stored in a student storage unit, from piles of books and notes used during late-night study sessions to comfortable furniture that has been a constant companion through numerous essays. All of your belongings can be safely stored away.
Books
Books are essential for students, but when it’s time to take a break, it’s important to store them properly. Keeping your books in a self-storage unit is not just about making space in your room; it’s also about protecting your investment and ensuring your books are in good condition for future use.
Consequently, properly storing your books can increase their resale value and maintain their quality. It’s essential to store them in sturdy, moisture-resistant boxes to prevent any damage. No student wants to open their storage box and find their books damaged by mildew. Taking the time to pack and store your books correctly can bring you peace of mind and possibly even help you make some extra money when it’s time to buy new books.
Study Furniture
Transforming your student room during breaks can feel free, and storing your study furniture is a big part of that process. Desks and chairs, while necessary for long study sessions, can take up a lot of space in your room. By choosing to store these items, you’re creating more space for activities and ensuring your furniture stays in good condition during the holidays.
Let’s also consider longevity. Your study furniture is an investment, and protecting it from constant use (or misuse) is crucial. Using furniture covers and disassembling larger items makes storage easier and protects them from potential damage. When the new semester starts, you’ll be glad you took the time to store your study space in good condition, free from dust and scratches.
Kitchen Appliances
When you return home during breaks, you may need to leave behind your kitchen appliances. Instead of selling or getting rid of them, consider storing them. By doing so, you can save money and simplify your future kitchen setup. Storing appliances reduces clutter, makes shared spaces manageable, and is eco-friendly. It prevents wastage by avoiding the discarding of perfectly good appliances. Therefore, storing your appliances is a sensible decision for kitchen convenience.
Clothing and Wardrobe Items
Season changes prompt a shift in wardrobe, and storing your clothing becomes crucial with limited dorm space. It’s a familiar scenario – the closet is overflowing, and you’re left wondering how much stuff one student room can hold. Storing your off-season clothes, from heavy winter coats to breezy summer dresses, means they’re out of sight but not forgotten, ready to come back when the weather changes.
Additionally, storing your wardrobe items is a great way to declutter, bringing a surprising amount of zen into your student life. Here are some benefits of storing your clothes:
- You no longer need to wade through a maze of clothes every morning.
- Packing away what you don’t need immediately frees up space.
- Simplifies your daily routine.
Smart use of storage space makes it easier to maintain a tidy and organised student room, a small luxury amidst the chaos of college life.”
Bicycles
Remember to store your bicycle securely when you’re not using it. Leaving it outside can lead to weather damage or theft, so it’s best to keep it in a safe place. Additionally, a good bike cover can protect your bike from dust, rust, and scratches while also making it less noticeable to potential thieves. It’s like a cocoon for your bike, ensuring it stays in good condition for your next ride.
Electronics and Gadgets
In today’s digital age, electronics and gadgets have become essential parts of our lives. When going on holiday or taking a break, storing your electronics properly is essential to keep them safe and secure. This helps free up space and ensures that your high-tech tools remain in good condition.
Simply throwing your electronics into a box without any preparation won’t do. Proper storage involves some preparation, such as removing batteries to prevent leakage and using the original packaging for extra cushioning. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your gadgets will be charged and in working condition when you return, avoiding any disappointment of finding them damaged or malfunctioning.
Ultimately, safely storing your electronics means you can easily pick up where you left off without any hassle.
Bedding and Linens
Before storing them, make sure to give them a good clean and dry to avoid any mould or musty smells later on. Consider using space-saving options like vacuum-sealed bags to condense bulky items and protect them from dirt and dust. If you prefer rolling them up, use breathable storage bags to prevent dampness. Your linens will be fresh and ready for the cosy nights ahead with the right packing materials.
How to Prepare Your Items for Storage
Before you begin storing your belongings in a storage unit, doing some prep work is important. From decluttering your space to selecting the appropriate packing materials, the time and effort you invest now will pay off in the long run.
Declutter Before Storage
The first step of your storage journey is to declutter. This step is not just about making space; it’s about ensuring that you’re not storing items that are no longer useful. Take this opportunity to go through your belongings with a critical eye – if you haven’t used something in a year, do you really need to store it? Selling unwanted items online or at local marketplaces can put a little extra cash in your pocket, making the process even more worthwhile.
Donating to charity is a win-win for those items that aren’t worth selling but are still in good condition. It lightens your load and helps others. Creating an inventory list as you go keeps you organised and ensures you’re only storing what’s necessary. Remember, every item you choose not to store is one less thing to worry about later.
Packing Materials and Techniques
Remember to use the right materials and techniques when packing. Plastic containers are better than cardboard boxes because they are more durable and can protect items from moisture, which is especially important for storing electronics or kitchen appliances.
To pack effectively, use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing, packing peanuts or paper to fill empty spaces in boxes, and protective covers for furniture. These techniques save space and protect your items from damage during storage. It’s important to use the appropriate packing materials for each type of item to ensure they are well-protected.
Label and Organise Properly
Don’t forget to label and organise everything properly. It’s a good idea to label each box with its contents to save time and frustration when you need to find something later. You can even go a step further and use colour-coded labels or specific text labels for different categories of items to make the process even easier. When you need to retrieve something, you’ll know exactly where to find it without any hassle. Taking the time to do this now will pay off in the long run by making your storage area more organised and efficient.
Choose the Right Storage Unit Size
When preparing to store your belongings, selecting a storage unit size that suits your needs is important. Choosing the right size is crucial as you don’t want to end up with a space that’s either too small or too large. You’ll need to assess your belongings in both square feet and cubic feet to find the perfect fit.
Here are some points to consider:
- A 10 sq. ft. unit is suitable for a student locker.
- A 20 sq. ft. space can accommodate about half a transit van’s worth of goods.
- Units offering 40 sq. ft. or more can hold a full van load.
Additionally, consider the duration of storage needed. Short-term storage may require a smaller unit, while long-term storage may require a larger space.
Security and Accessibility of Storage Units
When your belongings are packed up and ready to go, it’s important to consider the storage companies where they’ll be stored. Security is crucial when it comes to storage units. It ensures protection for your personal items. Access control systems and CCTV surveillance help keep your belongings safe, while on-site security personnel provide additional peace of mind.
Accessibility is also important – it’s helpful to have easy access to your storage unit when you need to retrieve items. At MIGHTY Self Storage, we provide strong security measures and insurance coverage for your stored items. Additionally, we offer 7-day access, allowing you to conveniently retrieve your belongings.
Choose MIGHTY Self Storage for the Perfect Student Storage Solutions in Leicester
Now that you’re ready to secure the perfect storage space, booking and managing your storage unit is the final step in your storage journey. When choosing a unit, consider the size, duration of storage, ease of access, and specifics of the rental agreement. Flexibility is key; the right facility will allow you to adjust your space as needed.
MIGHTY Self Storage offers short-term student storage, student summer storage, and vehicle storage with 7-day access. Our 24/7 CCTV surveillance and on-site security staff will secure your belongings. We provide an online booking and payment system, various unit sizes, and tailored solutions to meet every student’s needs. With over 50 years of experience, our customer-focused approach ensures that your belongings are in good hands.
Manage your belongings with confidence by choosing MIGHTY Self Storage, one of the top self-storage facilities in the area. Contact us today to request a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when choosing a storage unit size?
When checking your storage options, consider the quantity and types of items you need to store, measure them in square feet and cubic feet, and consider the duration of storage. Smaller storage containers work for fewer items, while larger units are better for long-term storage or larger quantities.
How can I ensure the security of my items in a storage unit?
To ensure the security of your items in a storage unit, choose MIGHTY Self Storage. Our facility offers strong, secure storage with security measures like CCTV surveillance, individual alarms, access control systems, and on-site security personnel. These features protect your belongings and limit access to authorised individuals.
How can I prepare my items for storage?
To prepare your items for storage, begin by decluttering to get rid of unnecessary items. Then, use plastic containers, bubble wrap, and vacuum-sealed bags for protection, and don’t forget to label each container for easy organisation. Whether for summer break, or winter, proper preparation is key for all your stuff.
Can I access my storage unit at any time?
Yes, when you choose MIGHTY Self Storage, you can access your storage unit at many facilities with flexible hours, such as 7-day access.
Final Thoughts
It’s evident that student storage goes beyond just storing your belongings. It’s about facilitating smoother transitions, protecting your possessions, and finding peace of mind amidst the chaos of student life. Whether it’s through decluttering, selecting the right storage unit size, or utilising cost-effective options, storage solutions provide a secure and flexible way to navigate your college years. For affordable student storage in Leicester, get in touch with MIGHTY Self Storage today to request a quote.
