Cleaning Out Your Storage Unit: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning out your storage unit can seem like an overwhelming prospect. With a little preparation and organization, though, it can be easy to get everything spick and span again. Take a look at our how-to for cleaning storage units and then get started clearing out!

Step 1: Planning

1. Evaluate the Circumstances:

When you're deciding how to clean out your storage unit, the first step is visiting your storage facility to gauge your unit's size and scope. How much stuff do you have stored? What's the size and shape of your biggest objects? Anything heavy or fragile? Double-check your unit as well to see what kind of cleaning supplies you'll need.

2. Assemble Materials:

• Bins and boxes: For holding everything.
• Markers and labels: To make note of what's in each box.
• Trash bags: For anything you're throwing away.
• Cleaning supplies: Dustpan, broom, cleaning spray, and cloths for cleaning the empty unit.
• Gloves, goggles, and face mask: Protect yourself, especially if your unit is dusty or hasn't been used in a while.

Step 2: Sort and Organize

1. Establish Sorting Zones:

When you're getting ready to unload your unit, designate four different zones for your items.

• Keep: Anything you want to keep and take with you.
• Sell: Items you don't need but are still in good condition.
• Donate: Usable items that can be given to charity.
• Trash: Broken or unusable items.

2. Follow a Methodical Approach:

• When you're cleaning out your storage unit, work your way through the unit, section by section, starting at one side.
• To make sure you're arranging everything appropriately, empty your unit's boxes and bins.

Step 3: Get Rid of the Excess

Once you've sorted everything into your Keep, Sell, Donate, and Trash zones, it's time to deal with what you're not planning to keep. 

1. Sell: Set up an account in an online marketplace like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. You can also host a garage sale if you live in an area with a lot of foot traffic.

2. Donate: Deliver goods to donation centers, thrift shops, or other charities. For larger donations, like furniture, some organizations provide pickup services - contact your chosen charity ahead of time to see.

3. Trash: When you're disposing of your broken or unsellable items, make sure you're doing so properly. Double check the local trash disposal rules to make sure you know all the relevant limitations or unique disposal techniques.

Step 4: Clean the Unit

After everything has been arranged and taken out, you'll need to clean your storage unit.

• Sweep and then mop the floor to get rid of any dust or dirt.
• Use a moist cloth and cleaning spray to thoroughly clean the walls, shelves, and other surfaces.
• Once you're done, give your unit one final inspection to make sure it's clean and completely emptied out.
• Examine any damage to make sure the storage facility is notified of it.
• If you supplied your own lock, don't forget to take it with you when you leave!

Step 5: Close Out Your Unit

1. Notify the Storage Facility: Let them know that you're all finished in the unit. Cancel your account and make any outstanding payments.

2. Return Locks or Keys: Give back any locks or keys that the storage facility gave you.

Suggestions for Upcoming Storage

• Name Everything: Label boxes clearly with what's inside and which room they belong in.
• Establish an Inventory: While you're loading up your storage unit, make a thorough list of everything that's in the unit as well as its position in the space.
• Use Quality Storage Containers: Invest in durable, watertight containers to safeguard your possessions.

Cleaning out a storage unit can be a rewarding experience, giving you a fresh start and a sense of accomplishment. You will be able to approach the assignment with efficiency and confidence if you follow this list of steps. Happy cleaning!