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Exit 51 - Self Storage Hacks for Busy Parents
December 12, 2024
Self Storage Hacks for Busy Parents: Stay Organized Year-Round
Life as a parent is a constant juggling act. Between managing school schedules, extracurricular activities, and keeping the house in order, clutter has a way of sneaking in. Toys pile up, sports gear takes over the garage, and school supplies end up scattered throughout the house. Fortunately, self storage can be your secret weapon for staying organized year-round. If you’re in the area and need a little extra space, self storage in Galesburg, IL, can help streamline your busy life.
Here are some practical ways parents can use Galesburg storage units to create a more organized, stress-free home.
1. Rotate Toys to Keep Playtime Fresh
Kids outgrow toys faster than you can blink, but that doesn’t mean you need to throw them all away. Instead, use a storage unit to rotate toys in and out of your home. Keep a small selection available for everyday play while storing the rest in your unit. Every few months, swap out the toys to keep things fresh and exciting for your little ones.
This method not only reduces clutter but also makes old toys feel new again—without spending a dime on replacements.
2. Create a Seasonal Gear System
From sleds and snow boots to soccer balls and swimsuits, seasonal gear can take up a lot of space. Designate a portion of your storage unit for items that aren’t currently in use. During the winter, store summer items like pool toys, lawn chairs, and bikes. When summer rolls around, swap them out for holiday decorations, snow gear, and sleds.
This system keeps your home free from unnecessary clutter while ensuring everything is easily accessible when you need it.
3. Organize School Supplies for a Smoother Year
Back-to-school season often leaves parents drowning in paper, art supplies, and unused notebooks. Instead of letting these items take over your home, use a storage unit to create a supply stash. Store extra notebooks, folders, pens, and craft materials in clear, labeled bins.
Having a dedicated storage space for school supplies means you’ll always know where to find what you need—saving you time and stress during the school year.
4. Tame the Sports Equipment Explosion
If you have athletes in the family, you’re probably familiar with the chaos that comes with sports gear. Cleats, helmets, bats, and uniforms can quickly overwhelm your space. A storage unit is an excellent solution for keeping everything organized.
Set up a shelving system in your unit to store each child’s equipment in labeled bins or bags. Keep a section for off-season gear to free up space in your garage or closets. With this system, you’ll avoid last-minute scrambles to find missing items before practices or games.
5. Store Keepsakes Without the Guilt
Parents often struggle with what to do with sentimental items like baby clothes, artwork, or old toys. These keepsakes hold precious memories but can take up valuable space at home. A storage unit allows you to preserve these treasures without cluttering your living space.
Use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and sturdy plastic bins for artwork and other mementos. Label everything clearly so you can easily retrieve items when you want to take a trip down memory lane.
6. Prepare for the Holidays in Advance
The holidays can be chaotic, but self storage can help make the season more manageable. Use your storage unit to organize decorations, gift wrap, and party supplies. Group items by holiday—Christmas, Halloween, Easter—so you can easily find what you need.
Having a dedicated storage space for these items means you won’t have to dig through closets or crawl spaces every year. Plus, it keeps your home from feeling overcrowded during the off-season.
7. Plan Ahead for Big Life Changes
Whether you’re welcoming a new baby, moving to a larger home, or sending a child off to college, a storage unit can help you prepare for life’s transitions. Temporarily store items you don’t need right away, like baby gear or dorm essentials. This gives you the flexibility to focus on the task at hand without the stress of clutter.
8. Set Up a Family Organization Station
One of the best ways to make the most of a storage unit is to treat it like an extension of your home. Use shelves, hooks, and bins to create a system that works for your family’s needs. Consider creating zones for toys, school supplies, sports equipment, and seasonal items.
By keeping everything organized and labeled, you’ll spend less time searching for items and more time enjoying family life.
Why Choose Exit 51 Self Storage?
If you’re looking for self storage in Galesburg, IL, Exit 51 Self Storage is here to help. Our clean, secure, and conveniently located Galesburg storage units provide the perfect solution for busy parents who need a little extra space. With a variety of unit sizes and flexible rental options, we make it easy to stay organized all year long.
Take Control of Your Space Today
Being a parent is hard enough without battling clutter at every turn. By incorporating a storage unit into your routine, you can keep your home organized and your stress levels low. Whether you’re managing toys, sports equipment, or seasonal items, Exit 51 Self Storage is your trusted partner for creating a more streamlined life.
Ready to reclaim your space? Contact us today to reserve your unit and discover how easy it is to stay organized year-round!
Properly storing your boat trailer is essential for maintaining its longevity and ensuring your boat is always ready for the water. Whether you're storing it for the off-season or just between trips, following these tips will help keep your trailer in top shape. At Exit 51 Boat and RV Storage, we provide a secure and convenient space to store your boat and trailer with peace of mind. 1. Clean Your Trailer Thoroughly Before storing your boat trailer, wash off any dirt, salt, or debris. Saltwater residue can cause corrosion, so be sure to rinse it thoroughly and let it dry completely. 2. Inspect for Damage Check the trailer for any signs of wear, including rust, loose bolts, or worn-out tires. Addressing these issues before storage can prevent costly repairs later. 3. Lubricate Moving Parts Grease the wheel bearings and lubricate the hitch, winch, and other moving parts to prevent rust and keep everything in working order. 4. Check and Maintain Tire Pressure Tires can lose air over time, leading to flat spots. Inflate them to the recommended PSI before storing your trailer to maintain their shape. 5. Elevate or Rotate the Tires If storing for an extended period, consider using jack stands to take weight off the tires. Alternatively, move the trailer occasionally to prevent flat spots. 6. Protect Electrical Components Disconnect and store the trailer’s lights and wiring if possible. Cover exposed electrical connections to prevent corrosion. 7. Use a Trailer Cover A high-quality trailer cover will help shield it from UV rays, rain, and debris, preserving its condition. 8. Secure Your Trailer Use wheel locks or a hitch lock to deter theft and ensure your trailer remains where you left it. Store with Confidence at Exit 51 Boat and RV Storage Finding the right place to store your boat trailer is just as important as maintaining it. At Exit 51 Boat and RV Storage, we offer secure, spacious storage options to keep your boat and trailer protected year-round. Contact us today to learn more about our storage solutions!
When it comes to storing your boat, RV, or other vehicles, choosing between short-term and long-term storage is an important decision. At Exit 51 Boat and RV Storage, we offer secure vehicle storage solutions to fit your needs, whether you’re looking for a temporary space or a long-term home for your vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of short-term vs. long-term storage to help you decide which is right for you. Short-Term Storage: Ideal for Seasonal or Temporary Needs Short-term storage is typically defined as a rental lasting a few weeks to a few months. It’s a great option for those who need flexibility and easy access to their vehicles. Benefits of Short-Term Storage: Perfect for seasonal vehicle storage – Store your boat or RV safely when not in use. Flexible rental agreements – No long-term commitment required. Convenient access – Retrieve your vehicle whenever you need it. Prepares your vehicle for upcoming trips – Keep your boat or RV in storage before your next adventure. Short-term storage is best for those who use their vehicles frequently but need a safe and secure place to keep them between trips. Long-Term Storage: Best for Extended Periods of Inactivity Long-term storage is ideal if you plan to store your vehicle for several months or even years. This option works well for RV and boat owners who only use their vehicles seasonally or need a secure space while traveling, moving, or downsizing. Benefits of Long-Term Storage: Protects your vehicle during the off-season – Keep your RV or boat safe when not in use. Reduces wear and tear – Avoid unnecessary exposure to the elements when your vehicle isn’t in use. Provides extra space at home – Free up driveway or garage space for daily use. Cost-effective for extended storage – Longer rental terms often provide better value. For long-term storage, it's important to prepare your vehicle properly by cleaning it, disconnecting the battery, and covering it to prevent dust buildup. Which Storage Option Is Right for You? If you need a temporary space for your RV or boat before your next trip, short-term storage is the way to go. If you need a secure, long-term solution for the off-season or an extended period of inactivity, long-term storage is the better choice. Store with Confidence at Exit 51 Boat and RV Storage No matter how long you need to store your vehicle, Exit 51 Boat and RV Storage offers secure and reliable storage options. With spacious vehicle units and easy access, we provide a convenient solution for both short-term and long-term storage needs. Contact us today to find the right storage option for your boat or RV!
When winter rolls around, RV owners are faced with a crucial decision: where to store their recreational vehicle during the colder months. While some may consider leaving their RV parked in a driveway or on the street, this approach can lead to unnecessary wear and tear, potential damage, and even security risks. Opting for secure storage at Exit 51 Boat and RV Storage offers a host of benefits that ensure your investment remains safe and well-maintained until spring. 1. Protection from Harsh Weather Conditions Winter weather can be harsh on your RV. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can cause significant damage, such as cracked seals, frozen pipes, and rusting metal components. Secure storage facilities provide covered or indoor storage options that shield your RV from the elements, reducing the risk of costly repairs come springtime. 2. Enhanced Security for Your Investment RVs are a significant financial investment, and leaving them exposed in an unsecured location can make them a target for theft or vandalism. At Exit 51 Boat and RV Storage, we prioritize security with gated access, surveillance cameras, and well-lit facilities. These measures ensure that your RV is protected, giving you peace of mind throughout the winter months. 3. Preserving Your RV’s Exterior and Interior Exposure to winter weather can wreak havoc on your RV’s exterior, causing fading paint, cracking tires, and water damage. Additionally, fluctuating temperatures can lead to interior issues like mold or warped materials. Secure storage helps maintain your RV’s condition by providing a stable environment that minimizes exposure to these damaging factors. 4. Convenience and Accessibility Secure storage facilities like Exit 51 offer convenient access to your RV whenever you need it. Whether you’re performing maintenance, retrieving personal items, or preparing for an impromptu winter trip, you can count on easy entry to your storage unit without the hassle of digging your RV out of the snow. 5. Saving Space at Home Storing your RV at a secure facility frees up valuable space at home. Instead of occupying your driveway or yard, your RV is stored in a dedicated, protected area designed specifically for large vehicles. This not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also prevents potential neighborhood HOA violations. 6. Professional Assistance and Resources Many storage facilities provide additional resources to help maintain your RV during the winter months. For example, Exit 51 offers tips on winterizing your RV and can guide you through best practices for long-term storage, ensuring your vehicle remains in top shape while it’s not in use. Choosing secure storage for your RV during the winter months is one of the best ways to protect your investment and ensure it’s ready for future adventures. Exit 51 Boat and RV Storage provides the security, convenience, and protection you need to keep your RV in excellent condition all year long. Don’t let winter weather take its toll—contact us today to reserve your spot and enjoy peace of mind this season.
Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming process, especially when you have a lot of belongings to organize and transport. That's where self storage comes in—it can make the entire moving experience much smoother and more manageable. Here are some key benefits of using self storage during a move and how it can help you stay organized from start to finish. 1. Temporary Space for Your Belongings One of the biggest advantages of self storage is having a temporary space to keep your items safe during the moving process. Whether your new home isn't quite ready yet or you need to declutter your current space before staging it for sale, self storage provides a secure spot for your belongings until you're ready to settle in. 2. Flexibility for Staggered Moves Not every move happens in a single day. Sometimes, you need a little extra time to transition between homes. Self storage gives you the flexibility to move items at your own pace. You can store packed boxes and furniture in the unit, gradually transporting them to your new place as you unpack and arrange things just the way you like. 3. Simplifying Home Staging If you're preparing your home for sale, staging is a crucial step to make your property more appealing to potential buyers. Self storage allows you to temporarily store personal items, excess furniture, or bulky items that could make rooms look cluttered. This can help create a more open, inviting space that showcases your home’s best features. 4. Safe and Secure Storage for Valuables During a move, it's easy to lose track of smaller valuables, important documents, or fragile items. A self storage unit can serve as a secure place to keep these items safe from damage or theft. With surveillance cameras and gated access, your belongings will be well-protected until you're ready to retrieve them. 5. Reduce Moving Day Stress Moving all your belongings at once can be overwhelming. Renting a storage unit allows you to spread out the workload, making the entire process more manageable. You can start by moving less frequently used items into storage ahead of time, leaving only the essentials for moving day. This can help reduce stress and keep you more organized. 6. Ideal for Downsizing If you’re downsizing to a smaller home, finding space for all your belongings can be challenging. Self storage offers a solution by providing a place to keep items you’re not ready to part with yet. It gives you the time to sort through your possessions at your own pace and decide what to keep, donate, or sell. 7. Convenient Location and Easy Access Choosing a self storage facility close to your current or new home can add an extra layer of convenience during your move. You can easily access your stored belongings whenever you need them, allowing you to retrieve or add items without much hassle. 8. Cost-Effective Moving Solution Rather than rushing to find extra storage space at your new place or paying for costly moving services to handle everything in one go, self storage can be a more budget-friendly alternative. It gives you the flexibility to manage your move on your terms without having to worry about fitting everything into one day. Using self storage during a move can simplify the entire process, giving you the time, space, and peace of mind needed to make your transition as smooth as possible. Whether you need short-term storage or a longer-term solution, Exit 51 Self Storage has the right unit for you. Contact us today to learn more about our storage options and reserve a unit that fits your needs.
When it comes to self-storage, selecting the right unit size is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Renting a unit that’s too small might leave you short on space, while opting for one that’s too large could lead to paying for more room than you need. At Exit 51 Storage in Galesburg, IL, we understand the importance of choosing a unit that fits your belongings perfectly. Here’s a helpful guide to ensure you select the best storage unit size for your needs. 1. Take Inventory of Your Belongings Before you choose a storage unit size, start by taking a detailed inventory of what you plan to store. Group your items into categories such as: Furniture (beds, sofas, tables, etc.) Boxes and bins Appliances Outdoor equipment Miscellaneous items Knowing exactly what you’re storing will help you better estimate the space you’ll need. 2. Understand Common Unit Sizes Storage units come in various sizes to accommodate a wide range of storage needs. Here are some of the most popular unit sizes at Exit 51 Storage and what they typically hold: 5x5 (25 square feet) This size is ideal for small personal items, boxes, and smaller furniture like chairs or side tables. It’s roughly the size of a large closet and perfect for those who need just a little extra storage space. 5x10 (50 square feet) A 5x10 unit can store the contents of a small bedroom, including a twin mattress, dresser, and several boxes. It’s great for decluttering or storing seasonal items. 10x10 (100 square feet) About the size of an average bedroom, this unit is large enough to hold the contents of a one-bedroom apartment. If you have a couch, bed, dining room set, and multiple boxes, this unit size could be a good fit. 10x15 (150 square feet) If you need to store the contents of a two-bedroom apartment or a small house, this size works well. It can hold large appliances, furniture, and boxes while still leaving room to move around. 10x20 (200 square feet) The 10x20 unit is about the size of a one-car garage and can store the contents of a three-bedroom house. It’s a great option if you’re moving or storing vehicles and large items like pianos or couches. 10x30 (300 square feet) The largest units available at Exit 51 Storage, a 10x30 unit can store the contents of a four-bedroom house or a large vehicle. This is the ideal choice for those needing a significant amount of storage space. 3. Think About How Often You’ll Access Your Items If you need frequent access to your belongings, consider leaving some space in your unit for easy navigation. Opting for a slightly larger unit will allow you to organize items in a way that makes them easy to reach without moving everything around. If you don’t plan to access your items often, you can pack them more tightly, potentially saving on storage space. Stackable bins and boxes can help you maximize the vertical space in your unit. 4. Visualize the Space It’s often difficult to imagine how your belongings will fit into a storage unit based on measurements alone. Try sketching out a floor plan or stacking your boxes and furniture in your garage or living room to get a sense of how much space you’ll actually need. Another helpful strategy is to ask the team at Exit 51 Storage for a walkthrough of our available unit sizes. Seeing the space in person can make it easier to visualize how your belongings will fit. 5. Consider Future Needs It’s easy to underestimate how much stuff you’ll need to store, especially if you anticipate adding more items later. If you’re unsure or expect to accumulate more belongings, renting a slightly larger unit can save you the hassle of upgrading later. For example, if you’re planning to store seasonal items like holiday decorations or outdoor equipment, a larger unit will allow you to keep everything in one place as your storage needs grow. 6. Talk to the Experts At Exit 51 Storage, we’re here to help you find the right storage solution. If you’re unsure which unit size will best suit your needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable team. We’ve assisted countless customers in choosing the perfect unit, and we can help you too! Conclusion Choosing the right storage unit size is key to making the most of your storage experience. By taking inventory of your belongings, understanding unit sizes, and planning for future needs, you can ensure you’re getting the space that’s just right for you. Exit 51 Storage offers a range of unit sizes to accommodate everything from a few boxes to the contents of an entire home. Ready to find the perfect storage solution? Contact us today to reserve your unit or schedule a tour of our facility in Galesburg, IL!
