boxes in storage unit

Where does the time go? Maybe you had good intentions to clear some of your stuff in the spring, and just didn’t get around to it. Here’s the good news! Fall is also a great time to take action and do some house clearing.

When the challenge of downsizing seems to be too much, people often throw up their hands in despair and head to their nearest storage unit.

An organized storage locker containing items you want, use and need is a good investment. Renting storage space to avoid making decisions about disposing or donating your surplus stuff just doesn’t make good cents!

THINK TWICE.

Renting storage space can be a tempting alternative to downsizing. It’s easier to bring all your unwanted and unused stuff to a clean, heated and secure room, and walk away with a key, knowing your stuff will be safe.

NO SURPRISES!

We know a family who rented a storage unit to store unused and unwanted furniture and a few other items. After almost a year of credit card bills, Dad visited the storage unit to see just exactly what he was paying for every month. Imagine his surprise when he opened the door and found...a half-bag of peat moss in the middle of the space. Without telling him, the family had removed most of the items several months earlier. That was the good news; the bad news...his credit card payments continued.

TAME THE Locker Mess Monster!

With some advance planning, you can maximize your space and minimize your cost. The first rule is to be ruthless about what you’re storing. Ask yourself questions like,  Will I really use this again? Am I ever going to get around to refinishing or reup- holstering this? Am I just afraid to let my stuff go?

Create a written Inventory of the contents of each box or container. Note their location within the storage unit and make sure everything is accessible. Place boxes of similar size on shelving units to maximize vertical and horizontal space.

And the most important tip… If you haven’t visited the storage unit in over a year, it’s time to reassess your need for the space and dare to let it go!

Looking to declutter your house or your parents' house? Our divas are here to assist. We provide professional decluttering support for seniors in the GTA. Find your local diva and kickstart the process today.

Karen Shinn

Karen Shinn

Downsizing Diva Co-Founder. Toronto East & North York

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