Self-storage units can be a great way to store your personal belongings, boxes and furniture pieces during a move, renovation, or decluttering process. However, the process can be overwhelming and lead to common mistakes that could impact your experience. In this blog post, we will highlight the top self-storage mistakes to avoid and provide tips on preventing them. Our goal is to help you have a smooth and stress-free storage experience.

1. Neglecting to Plan Ahead

Before renting your first self-storage unit, take the time to assess your storage needs and plan accordingly. Determine what items you’ll be storing, their sizes, any odd-sized items, and how long you’ll need the storage space. Failing to plan could result in choosing the wrong storage unit size or not having adequate packing supplies like boxes, bubble wrap, and tape, leading to frustration down the line.

You can start by making a storage list indicating the number of items you plan to store and the measurements, including the height, length, and depth of any odd-sized items and any temperature-sensitive items. You can also include a column indicating the box number so that you can track where the items are stored.

2. Underestimating Storage Space Needed

One of the most common mistakes is underestimating the required storage space. It’s essential to accurately assess the volume of items you plan to store to avoid renting a unit that’s too small. Take inventory of your belongings and consider future storage needs to ensure you select the appropriate unit size to accommodate everything comfortably. Should you have items with a higher height, it is also good to highlight this to the storage provider so that they can advise on the storage process and what storage size will best fit it.

3. Skipping Proper Organisation and Labelling

Effective organisation is key to maximising your self-storage space and maintaining easy access to your belongings. Avoid the mistake of haphazardly packing items into boxes without proper labelling or organisation. Take the time to categorise items, label boxes clearly, and create a layout plan for your storage unit to facilitate efficient retrieval when needed.

For fragile items, remember to also indicate it on the box so that the movers can note it during the moving process. For businesses, you might also want to plan on installing shelving in the self-storage unit so that you can store your items in an orderly manner based on your business needs. This will also provide you with a space to walk about in the storage unit when you are taking stock or packing your items for customers.

4. Overlooking Security Features

When choosing a self-storage facility, consider the importance of robust security features. Look for self-storage facilities with measures such as security guard posts, 24/7 CCTV surveillance cameras, pin code or security card access and reception or on-site staff to help safeguard your belongings. Prioritising security can provide peace of mind, knowing your items are well-protected in storage.

During your initial storage decision process, you should also visit the storage facility to have a first-hand look at the place, check on the security features, loading bay areas, and whether the storage facility is clean, etc. You can also time your journey to see if it is within your preferred travelling time if you visit your storage unit daily; this is also an important factor to consider.

By avoiding these common self-storage mistakes and taking proactive steps to plan, organise, and secure your belongings, you can make the most of your self-storage experience. Whether you’re storing items short-term or long-term, careful consideration and preparation will contribute to a seamless and successful storage journey.

If you are looking for a self-storage provider, you can always contact Extra Space Asia Self Storage at 1300 22 0288 to learn more about the various storage offerings. You can also visit the storage facility during operating hours from Monday to Friday, 9am to 6 and Saturday, 9 am to 1pm, without the need for a prior appointment.

By: Michelle Lee

By: Michelle Lee

Are you preparing to store your fragile belongings? Proper packing is essential to ensure your delicate items remain safe and secure during storage. In this blog, experts from Extra Space Asia Self Storage will share some essential storage tips and tricks to help you master the art of packing delicate possessions. These storage tips will provide peace of mind as you begin your storage journey.

1. Choose the Right Packing Materials

The foundation of successfully packing fragile items lies in selecting suitable materials. Opt for sturdy, high-quality boxes, bubble wrap, bubble wraps, and packing paper to provide a protective cushion around delicate items. Ensuring you have ample supplies of these materials is the first step toward safeguarding your valuables.

2. Wrap Each Item Individually

Wrap each fragile item individually to prevent items from knocking into each other during transport. Use bubble wrap or packing paper, securing it with tape to create a protective barrier. This extra layer shields your possessions from potential damage caused by friction or contact.

3. Utilise Dividers and Inserts

Consider using dividers or inserts within boxes for items such as glassware or porcelain. These specialised packing materials add an extra layer of protection, keeping individual items securely in place and minimising the risk of breakage.

4. Pack Strategically

When packing your storage unit, it is important to stack the heavier and sturdier items and boxes at the bottom, with lighter and more fragile items on top. This same principle should also be applied during the packing process. This strategic packing approach ensures that delicate items are not crushed or damaged by the weight of other items, whether in storage or during transportation.

5. Label Boxes Clearly

Never underestimate the power of clear labelling. Mark boxes containing fragile items with the term “Fragile” prominently on all sides. This simple step helps movers and yourself handle the boxes with the necessary care and attention.

6. Choose Climate-Controlled Storage

Consider opting for climate-controlled storage units, especially for delicate items sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. You can also inform the Customer Service Executive about the types of items you plan to store, and they will advise you accordingly on what you should take note of.

7. Seek Professional Guidance

If you need help properly storing your fragile items, it’s always a good idea to seek advice from storage professionals. Extra Space Asia has a team of experts ready to assist you with personalised advice based on your specific storage needs. They will ensure that your fragile items receive the attention and care they deserve. Additionally, if you need any packing items, you can conveniently purchase them at the Box Shop located in the reception area at all Extra Space Asia Self-Storage facilities.

Mastering the art of packing fragile items is crucial for anyone considering storage. By following these essential storage tips, you can confidently embark on your storage journey, knowing that your delicate possessions are safeguarded against potential hazards.

At Extra Space Asia Self Storage, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you need any packing materials like boxes or bubble wraps, you can always purchase them at our Box Shop located in our storage facility’s reception area. For more expert insights and personalised guidance, contact our team at 1300 22 0288 today or explore our blogs for additional storage tips and resources.

By: Michelle Lee

Storing seasonal clothing can be daunting, especially when your closet is overflowing and you have limited storage space at home. However, with proper organisation and the right storage solutions, you can easily keep your clothes in good condition while making the most of your available space. In this blog post, we’ll provide some expert tips on efficiently storing your seasonal clothing.

1. Sort, Declutter and Donate if possible

Before you start packing away your seasonal clothing, take the time to sort through your wardrobe. Identify items you no longer wear or need and set them aside for donation or resale. Decluttering your clothing collection and thick jackets will make storage more manageable and free up space for the clothes you wear.

2. Clean and Freshen

Clean your clothing items before storing them. Launder or dry clean everything to remove any stains or odours that may attract pests. Ensure your clothes are completely dry before packing them, as moisture can lead to mould and mildew growth.

3. Use the Right Storage Containers

Invest in proper storage containers to protect your clothing. Clear plastic bins with secure lids are a great choice because they allow you to see the contents and keep out dust and pests. Be sure to label each container with its contents, making it easier to find what you need later.

For delicate or easily wrinkled items, hanging storage is a smart solution. Garment bags with breathable fabric protect clothing while allowing air circulation. Hanging shelves or racks can also store shoes, handbags, and accessories.

4. Opt for Vacuum-Seal Bags

Vacuum-seal bags are a space-saving wonder. They allow you to compress your clothing, reducing bulk and making it more compact. Just be cautious when using them for delicate fabrics, as the pressure can cause wrinkles or damage.

While it’s tempting to maximise every inch of your storage containers and bags, overpacking can lead to wrinkles and damage. Remember to leave some breathing room, especially for delicate fabrics, to ensure your clothing remains in good condition.

5. Choose a Cool and Dry Location for Storage Purpose

The location where you store your clothing is crucial. Avoid areas that are subject to extreme temperature fluctuations or high humidity, as these conditions can damage your clothes. A cool, dry, dark closet or a dedicated storage area in your home is ideal.

6. Rotate Your Clothing Regularly

Consider rotating your items every three or six months to keep your seasonal clothing fresh and wrinkle-free. When one season ends and another begins, take the opportunity to inspect, clean, and rearrange your stored items.

Bonus Tip: Optimize Your Wardrobe Space with Self-Storage Solutions

Incorporate self-storage options to free up valuable space in your wardrobe. This will allow you to keep your seasonal items easily accessible and well-preserved, contributing to a clutter-free and organized living space.

7. Protect Against Pests

Moths and other pests can wreak havoc on your clothing. To prevent this, consider using natural deterrents like cedarwood or lavender sachets in your storage containers. You can also use pest-repellent products designed for clothing storage.

8. Use Professional Storage Solutions

If you’re short on space or want to ensure the utmost care for your seasonal clothing, consider using professional self-storage services like Extra Space Asia Self-Storage. Many facilities offer climate-controlled storage units with controlled humidity, ideal for preserving your seasonal clothing and collection.

You can also choose to rent a self-storage unit either short-term or long-term depending on your storage needs. To explore the full spectrum of storage offerings, simply reach out to them at 1300 22 0288. For a firsthand look at the diverse storage solutions and the storage environment they provide, you’re welcome to visit their storage facilities situated in Malaysia. The storage reception areas are open from Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm and Saturday, from 9am to 1pm, and there’s no need for prior appointments.

Storing seasonal clothing efficiently requires some planning and the right containers. By following these tips, you can keep your clothing in great condition and enjoy a well-organised wardrobe throughout the year.

By: Michelle Lee

First things first, congratulations! It’s no mean feat, and we know how momentous this occasion is! Babies are a blessing, as they bring joy and happiness to everyone around. However, once the initial buzz and excitement settle down, possible worries may set in—are you well and truly prepared to welcome a baby into your life and home? In the early stages, babies are often curious as everything is new to them, so they tend to wander and touch and put everything in their mouths, so do keep an eye on what you leave around! Preparing for a baby’s room is truly exciting, and we’ve compiled some tips and tricks that may come in handy for you!

 

It’s recommended to share a room with your baby for the first six months! The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends this practice for infants’ first six months of life, lowering the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Having your baby within sight of you will also help put your mind at ease, as you know they’re within reach if anything happens. However, you may have to get creative with furniture! Mini cribs are fast becoming a thing, so are foldable, portable and convertible cribs! Your bedroom may need to be bigger to hold a large crib, so do consider moving some larger furniture to other rooms or possibly even a self-storage unit such as Extra Space Asia for the time being!

 

If you have a spare room which can be converted into a nursery, the best colours to paint the nursery are neutral tones. Not only are they timeless and soothing, this palette also makes it easy to mix and match neutral tones with other furnishings and decorations. You can let your kid pick out their fav colour when they grow older!

 

It’s also important to ensure that the room is safe and secure for a baby! Lest we forget, make it comfortable too, as both of you will be spending plenty of time in the room! Prepare for yourself a small corner to rest or an armchair for you to grab some quick shuteye while the baby’s napping. You’re going to need it! Pad the corners of any furniture in the room, and consider installing a rug to cushion the sounds of footsteps. Babyproof it thoroughly! Anchor down bulky furniture to prevent them from possibly toppling over. Conceal any electrical wires, if possible, as well as the power outlets too!

 

Most importantly, do remember to cherish this moment and enjoy it! It’s not every day one gets to go through a process such as this. Savour the moment, and have fun! For all your storage needs, there’s always Extra Space Asia. You can choose to store with us from as short as 14 days, to as long as you need! Who knows, baby number 2 might come along when you reckon you don’t need the extra space anymore! Find out more at www.extraspaceasia.com.my.

 

By: Kenny Ng

It’s no secret that property prices have been rising in recent times. We see a year-on-year increase in purchase prices as well as rental costs. If you find yourself in such a situation where you have to downsize your living space, fret not! We’ve put together a handy list of tips and tricks to help you move!

 

1. Split into a trio

 

First, you will have to reduce your belongings, as you no longer have the luxury of space. Your new home will have much less space, and every square inch is valuable. You’ll no longer be able to keep that huge soft toy you won from a fun fair way back, as that’s potentially where a cupboard could be.

 

With this ‘sacrifice’ in mind, it’s time to split your items into three stacks; one where it’s the essentials, another to be donated and lastly to be tossed out. Be strict with yourself, as these items will make up the bulk of your space at home. Donate all unused clothes or those that can’t fit anymore to a charity. You’ll be saving space and doing a good deed at the same time!

 

2. Measure and plan accordingly

 

Measure out the space you have in your new home, which will help determine where the bulky furniture can go. Knowing the restrictions you have in place will speed things up, so you can save time and effort moving things here and there to see if they fit. Write down the dimensions of each room in your new and old home to compare and give you a clearer idea of what needs to go.

 

3. Prioritise multifunction space-saving furniture

 

This is when function trumps design, unfortunately. That stool that doubles as a table—we’re all for it! Coffee tables can be used as storage too. Bring it along! The smaller the space, the more functions each item should serve. Use your vertical space wisely, like choosing a bed frame with large drawers underneath it!

 

4. Self-Storage

 

Whilst you may argue that the whole point of this downsizing exercise was to save money, self-storage is relatively affordable compared to a larger space rental! This option grants you the freedom and convenience to come and go as you wish and to also hold on to items that may come in handy one day, although you have no space for them in your home. Not to mention that you can rent for as long as you wish, with the flexibility of extending should the need arise!

 

All in all, downsizing doesn’t mean the end of the world. It can be a fruitful exercise to save more money too! Just follow the list of tips we’ve compiled for you, and you’ll be fine! Remember: For all your storage needs, there’s always Extra Space Asia.

By: Kenny Ng

Packing your Christmas decorations and trees away? We can always store these festive decorations in boxes and unbox them again next year. However, it can always be more organised when it comes to your storage process so that you will know where everything is stored. Here are five storage ideas for storing your Christmas items.

1. Store Christmas ornaments by colour themes

Love buying new baubles and ornaments every year? Over the years, you may find yourself with many different colour themes. As such, why not try storing these festive items by colour? You can use the same size boxes or transparent bins to see what is stored in the containers easily at one glance. Storing them in the same size boxes will also allow for a smoother stacking process.

2. Label your Christmas bins and boxes

Moving boxes from one location to another can be tricky if we do not know what is in each box. If your box includes fragile items such as glass or ceramic items, it will be good to indicate labels such as “fragile” or “this side up”, which will be helpful when you are going through your boxes. You should also include details such as what is in the boxes (e.g. Christmas lights, Christmas baubles, bells and so on) so that you do not need to open up all the boxes to find one item.

In terms of storage, you should always face the label side of the box outwards so that you can see them easily.

3. Protect those fragile glass ornaments

It can be tricky to store all of the ornaments neatly. When storing those fragile ornaments, it is good to first organise them based on the pattern type or the colours. Once that is done, you can use bubble wrap to wrap those fragile ornaments. This sequence will act as a layer of protection in case you drop them or decide to keep them for a long time.

You can use egg trays to store them away for those baubles of similar colours or smaller sizes. You can also add cotton wool balls to protect against any breakages. You can also cover the baubles with coffee filters for an added layer of protection.

4. Store your Christmas trees with stretch films

As we will only be using these festive items in December, they will usually be in the storage room or storage unit for one year. Thus, to keep your Christmas tree intact and dust-free, it would be good to utilise stretch films to hold the Christmas tree for easy transportation. Those planning to save even more time might end up wrapping up the Christmas tree with all the ornaments and ribbons rather than taking the tree down. If you are taking this approach, it will be good to store your tree in a standing position so that the decors are intact.

5. Wrap your Christmas lights in cardboard

Storing Christmas lights is always a hassle. If they are not stored properly, the lights will end up tangled up in a bad state. If you have many different Christmas lights, you can easily store them in a box by wrapping them in cardboard. This will keep them in an organised state, and the lights will also be tangle-free. Once you have tied them around the cardboard, you can label the type of Christmas lights on the cardboard so that you do not have to try all of them every time.

Extra Space Asia Self-Storage

Are all the seasonal decoration items and clothing taking up too much space at home? Why not free up your home by renting a self-storage unit with Extra Space Asia today? We’ve got storage units in various sizes, from Lockers to Walk-ins, to fit every customer’s needs. Contact us today at +1300 22 0288 or visit our storage facilities to learn more about our storage solutions.

By: Michelle Lee

We understand that choosing the right self-storage unit can be tricky, but it is important to make an intentional decision so that you do not have to pay any additional cost for the extra space you do not need. If it is your first time renting a self-storage unit, here are three smart tips to help you choose the ideal unit.

Take note of what you are planning to store

Before getting a storage quotation, you should consider what you are planning to store. You can start by making a list of the items or number of boxes you need to use. Boxes can be stacked and piled in most cases, so if you only have a few boxes, a small walk-in or locker storage unit might just be sufficient.

owever, if you are planning to store odd-sized items or furniture, make sure you are aware of the exact dimensions (with added buffer) before you find a storage unit size. If your items are temperature sensitive, it would be important to store them in a cool and air-conditioned temperature storage unit.

Take a look at the storage size estimator 

Most self-storage providers will showcase their general storage size estimator on their website to give their customers a feel of the available storage sizes. Consider looking at the storage size estimator to get a rough sense of what storage sizes best fit your needs.

Take a look at our size estimator here for reference. Usually, the size estimator page will provide a storage size measurement and simple information such as how many boxes can the particular unit fit. If you are unsure about what storage size you need, you should always contact the storage provider for more assistance. If you need to have an estimate on the storage cost, you can also submit a web quote as seen here, and you will receive a free web quotation within 1 minute!

Visit the storage provider to have a tour around the facility

If you are unsure about the storage sizes you need, visit the storage provider to tour the self-storage facility. During the visit, you will see the various storage sizes in person and have a real feel of the storage sizing.

During your tour, ensure that the storage unit facility has certain features such as CCTV, insurance, pin code or card access to the storage unit area. These safety and security features are essential as they will give you peace of mind knowing that you have stored your items in safe and secure storage space.

For more information on choosing the right storage size, feel free to visit any of our storage facilities to have a personalised storage tour or call us at 1300 22 0288.

Our friendly Customer Service Executive will assist you through your storage journey and find you the best fitting unit for your storage needs.

 

By: Michelle Lee

Just rented your first self-storage unit to store your personal and business items to enjoy more space? If you are planning to access your storage unit frequently, it is ideal to store your items neatly to access them with ease.

Here are three clever ways to effectively maximise your storage unit space over the years.

Tip 1: Dismantle your big ticket items and furniture

If you have big-ticket items and furniture pieces that you plan to store in your storage unit, consider dismantling them so that they take up lesser space in your unit. Items such as bed frames and bookshelves should be dismantled and wrapped neatly to be easily retrievable when needed.

Did you know that when you rent a self-storage unit, you are essentially paying for every square foot or square metres you rent? Thus, it is always encouraged to list down all the items you plan to store first and see what can be dismantled and wrapped so they will take up less space. This way, you will rent a more cost-effective storage unit that fits your needs and budget.

However, if you have more things to store over the years, you can always upsize your storage unit easily when you rent a storage unit at storage facilities such as Extra Space Asia Self-Storage.

Tip 2: Stack items or furniture to your best ability

If you have items such as chairs that can be stacked, you should try your best to stack them safely so that they will take up less space in your storage unit. Stacking also makes for a neater arrangement for easy access in the future.

For box storage, it is key to stack the ones that are heavier and bigger at the bottom so that you can retrieve them easily without straining your back. Do remember to label the boxes too, so that you do not need to open them up just to find one item. It would also help if you stacked the boxes of similar sizes so that they would not stick out in an untidy manner or fall over.

If you need some sturdy boxes, you can always purchase them at Extra Space Asia’s Box Shop.

Tip 3: Utilise the vertical space in your storage unit 

When you have a self-storage unit, shelving can be a good organisation tool to add. The shelving will be great for dividing the space into your storage units according to your needs.

If you are renting a storage unit to store all of your business inventories, it would be good to organise your items based on popularity. Or sort them in a first-in-first-out basis so that you can do your stock-taking easily in your storage unit.

With proper sturdy shelving, you will also be able to fully utilise every inch of space in the storage unit from top to bottom. By optimising your storage space, you’ll be able to save on cost, spending only on what you truly need!

If you are looking to upsize or downsize your storage unit, you can always visit our reception during our operating hours and our friendly Extra Space Asia‘s consultants will be glad to assist you with your next storage unit of a different size.

 

By: Michelle Lee