Self-Storage Blog

5 Clever DIY Cleaning Tips

Cleaning And Organization

Keeping your home clean and organized is essential for a healthy and happy life. The start of a new season is the perfect time to get your home organized and ready for the rest of the year. While your full housekeeping strategy is up to you, this guide will help you stay on top of your cleaning responsibilities while creatively using the tools you have around the home to make the job easier. With our years of storage experience and facilities across the country, trust 10 Federal Storage to help you keep your home tidy all year long with these five DIY cleaning tips. 1. Natural Cleaning Solutions for Your Kitchen Cabinets Start by scrubbing down all your wooden surfaces with lemon oil. This time-tested treatment can bring back fading color while removing dirt and residue of all varieties. Skip the harsh chemicals and use this gentle yet effective cleaning solution to keep your whole kitchen clean and protected from grime. Tip - Use lemon oil on these wooden surfaces: ● Cabinets ● Counters ● Tables ● Floors ● Walls 2. Freshen Up Your Bathroom With Homemade Cleaning Products While larger messes (both in and out of the bathroom) are best handled with dedicated cleaning solutions, you can keep up on your regular bathroom maintenance with a DIY all-purpose cleaner. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to make an effective and aromatic cleaner for your bathroom sink and shower. Add a little baking soda before you apply for toilets and other areas that require extra cleaning. 3. Clever Cleaning Hacks in the Laundry Room Your all-purpose cleaner also works great on your washing machine! Run an empty load with water, vinegar, and baking soda a few times a year to eliminate any stale or funky odors. On top of that, try using germ-free sponges as you clean out your washer, ...

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September 21st, 2023

Deciding What To Sell and What To Donate

Cleaning And Organization

Deciding what to sell and what to donate can be a difficult process, especially when organizing or downsizing. Whether you’re making a big move or just looking to declutter your home, 10 Federal Storage has you covered with helpful tips for deciding how to sell and what to donate. The process of determining what belongings you want to keep can be daunting at first. At 10 Federal Storage, our aim is to assist you in optimizing your space with our decluttering tips from leading storage professionals. Assess Your Needs and Goals It’s crucial to have a plan before you even begin to sort through your belongings. Deciding what your primary goal is will help you maintain a clear focus as you determine what gets sold or donated. Selling clothes or extra furniture is a great way to make a little money while clearing up some space in your home. Alternatively, donating items you no longer use can be extremely rewarding and helpful for your community. Regardless of what your intent is, having a plan and understanding your goals will help guide and inform your decisions. Categorize and Evaluate Items Once you’ve decided on what plan of action you intend to take with the items, sorting them by use or category is the next step. Making groups of items based on their use will make the decision-making process easier. Start out by sorting your belongings into categories like clothing, electronics, furniture, kitchen items, and so on. From that point, you can determine what would be worth selling or donating. Items that are relatively new and aren’t used as frequently are great candidates for selling. Possessions like clothing, furniture, and some tech can be reused or repurposed by other people, while items that may be older or worn are ideal for donations. During this process, it’s to your benefit to evaluate the practicality of each item. If something is extremely outdated and rarely used, it’s probably best to donate or correctly dispose of it rather than wasting your time trying ...

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August 31st, 2023

Clearing the Clutter: Donating and Storing Outgrown School Items

Cleaning And Organization

Clearing the Clutter: Donating and Storing Outgrown School Items The beginning of each school year is always full of excitement and anticipation, from purchasing new clothes and school supplies to learning what classes you are in. However, as the school year goes on, you may find yourself accumulating school supplies and items that you don’t need. When you find yourself with more school items than you know what to do with, it’s time to begin clearing the clutter. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or a parent or guardian, 10 Federal Storage is here to help you declutter by offering advice on what to do with your school supplies. Read on to learn how students and teachers alike can donate, recycle, and store school items. Decluttering For Students and Families No matter how much you try to reuse school supplies from the previous school year, it always seems like you end up with more and more at the conclusion of each school year. For students and families of students, these school supplies can take up a lot of space around your home if you don’t find a place for them early on. Thankfully, we have easy solutions for clearing clutter and getting rid of outgrown school items. These solutions include: Donating school supplies Recycling school supplies Preserving sentimental school supplies Donate Unused School Supplies The easiest way to declutter old school supplies is to donate them to schools or other resale stores. Goodwill or second-hand bookstores are both great options if you choose to go that route. However, schools are always looking for donations of school supplies for classrooms as well as students who cannot afford school supplies. Donating supplies to local homeless or women’s shelters is also a good option to get helpful items into the hands of people who truly need them. Recycle School Supplies Rather than buying brand-new school supplies each school year, you can simply reuse the ones you kept from the previous school year. From notebooks with plenty of pages left or ...

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August 31st, 2023

The Importance of Keeping Your Belongings Safe in Self Storage

Self Storage Tips

Trusting a self storage unit to take care of your belongings can be a difficult decision, that’s why we’re here to help. By taking precautions such as researching the facility's security features, using extra security measures like locks and insurance, opting for climate-controlled units for valuable items, and more, you can enjoy a more secure self storage experience. These tips will help ensure the security of your items throughout their time in storage and give you the assurance you need to trust your chosen storage solution. Choosing a Safe Self Storage Facility When searching for a self storage facility, focusing on security is essential. Before renting a unit, research the facility's security features—including property fencing, keypad or electronic gate access, and surveillance cameras. Other standard security measures may include on-site resident managers and bright lighting. By choosing a safe self storage facility with these security features, you can rest easy knowing your belongings are well-protected. Researching the facility's security features can help make certain you make the best choice for your storage needs. Packing and Organizing Your Unit When loading up your storage unit, you can use sturdy boxes and packing materials to maximize space and provide protection. Keep frequently used items at the front of the unit for easy access, place heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top to prevent damage, and leave an aisle in the center to access all your belongings without disrupting the entire unit. Following these guidelines, you can create an organized and secure storage unit that maximizes space and provides easy access to your belongings. Additional Security Measures To better guarantee the security of your belongings in self storage, consider investing in a high-quality lock, such as a heavy-duty padlock or cylinder lock. Additionally, if you plan to store valuable or irreplaceable items, opt for a climate-controlled unit to prevent extreme temperatures. By taking these extra security measures, you can take comfort in knowing your belongings are safeguarded in storage. Whether you're storing items long-term or short, investing in ...

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July 31st, 2023

Your Guide to Climate-Controlled Storage

Climate-Controlled Storage

Whether it’s a move to a new town or an upgrade to something bigger and better, self storage can help you eliminate clutter and keep items well-organized during times of transition. However, you may need an additional layer of protection for some of your items—like those made of more delicate material. With climate-controlled storage, you gain access to the environment your items deserve. In this guide from 10 Federal, we will take you through the ins and outs of climate-controlled storage including why you should choose climate-controlled storage, what this unique feature is, and how to prepare items for climate-controlled storage. Frequently Asked Questions About Climate-Controlled Storage Before we can give you all the best tips and tricks for choosing the right climate-controlled unit, we want to make sure all your inquiries about this unique storage feature are answered. So, without further ado, let’s answer some questions! What is Climate-Controlled Storage? Climate-controlled storage is a type of storage that maintains a temperature-controlled environment year-round. These units remain within a consistent temperature range no matter how hot or cold it becomes outside. In turn, this helps certain items maintain their shape and fight off damage that extreme weather conditions and intense temperatures may cause. What Items Can I Store in a Climate-Controlled Unit? If you own an item you believe is susceptible to weather-related damage, these units offer the perfect oasis. Temperature-controlled storage units provide optimal environmental conditions for wood, leather, lace, or metal items. Items that are especially at risk of incurring damage caused by extreme temperature include: Wooden furniture Clothing made of leather or lace Musical instruments Kitchen appliances Electronics Metal sports equipment Paper documents (such as books or newspapers) What Are the Benefits of Climate-Controlled Storage? Exposure to hot or cold temperatures isn’t going to cause damage to your delicate storage items right away. However, over time your items may begin to lose their shape or suffer from detrimental effects if not stored properly. Leather items may start to warp or tear, metal will begin to rust, wood begins warping, and ...

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July 24th, 2023

Tips for Keeping Your RV in Good Condition

Rvs And Boats

As with any vehicle or home, owning an RV comes with maintenance costs. RV repairs, however, can be much more costly than you’d expect. To protect your investment, home, and passion, check out our RV maintenance checklist before you put it in RV storage. Inspect Roof Coatings RV roofs are exposed directly to sunlight for most of the year. Over time, this exposure — as well as regular weather — can deteriorate the coating. Using a side ladder, scale your RV to check the roof for signs of deterioration or damage. Pay close attention to the seals and seams of the roof. Rubber roof acrylic coating, or another appropriate patch material, can be purchased to patch any issues. The roof should be inspected at least once every year, but you may want to more often depending on your use. To prevent roof damage, park in the shade or under cover as much as possible. If parked under sappy trees or other messy conditions, be sure to rinse off the roof with a light solvent and water as soon as possible. Check Your Water Heater Your water heater is easy to forget until you need it. As you’re checking other parts of your RV, be sure to take a look at your water heater. Use compressed air to remove any debris or build-up in the burner tube or chamber, then check the status of your anode rod, which will need to be replaced occasionally. Take Care of Your Waste System Maintaining your waste system is an essential part of regular use. Without these regular tasks, your system will develop excessive build-up, which may cause the system to clog or fail. Be sure to use chemicals designed to work with your specific system, flush regularly, and use biodegradable toilet paper. Look Under the Hood Change your RV's oil every 3,000-4,000 miles or annually. Additionally, you’ll need to replace the air, ...

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June 26th, 2023

How to Plan the Ultimate RV Road Trip

Rvs And Boats

Embarking on an RV road trip is an exciting adventure that allows you to experience the freedom of the open road. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a newbie, planning is key to ensuring a memorable and smooth journey. In this guide, we'll share the best ideas for RV road trips, highlight great road trip destinations, and provide tips on keeping your family entertained throughout the trip. So, buckle up and get ready for the ultimate RV road trip! Choosing the Perfect Route When it comes to planning the perfect road trip route, there are plenty of exciting options to explore. Here's a snapshot of some of the best road trip spots to consider: Asheville, North Carolina Start your journey in Asheville, North Carolina, nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Explore the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic drive renowned for its breathtaking views and vibrant fall foliage. Afterward, make your way to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can hike, bike, or simply immerse yourself in nature's beauty. Nashville, Tennessee Known as the Music City, Nashville, Tennessee, is a must-visit for music lovers. Experience the soul-stirring sounds of country music at iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Stroll down Broadway to enjoy live performances and indulge in delicious Southern cuisine. Charleston, South Carolina Delve into history and southern charm in Charleston, South Carolina. Take a leisurely walk through the historic streets, admiring the stunning architecture and vibrant gardens. Explore the plantations and gardens of Magnolia Plantation and Middleton Place. Sample the city's renowned cuisine, from fresh seafood to Lowcountry specialties. Savannah, Georgia Step into the romantic ambiance of Savannah, Georgia, known for its elegant squares and antebellum architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets and soak in the city's beauty. Visit historic sites like Forsyth Park, Bonaventure Cemetery, and the Mercer Williams House. Indulge in Southern delicacies and experience the city's vibrant nightlife. The Best Road Trip Foods Food ...

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June 10th, 2023

Five Tips To Help Downsize Your Closet During Spring Cleaning

Cleaning And Organization

With warmer weather fast approaching, many people are rushing to get some spring cleaning done. One place that often needs some cleaning out is closets. As the year goes by, many people add clothes to their closets until they no longer have room for anything else. Spring is the best time to clean out those clothes that no longer bring you joy. If you simply need more space to store clothes that aren’t in season or clothes that you aren’t sure what to do with, 10 Federal Storage offers multiple different sizes of storage units that are perfect for clothing, holiday decorations, and more. Getting a storage unit after cleaning out your closet takes the pressure off, so you don’t have to stress about getting rid of extra clothes or sentimental items. Read on for some more tips to help maximize your closet space. Start with Easy Decisions It can be hard to know how many clothes is too many. The truth is, it’s up to you to decide. Many clothing items have sentimental value, which can make it difficult to decide what happens to the garments. Those are clothing items you’ll want to push aside to get to in the end. First, start with things that will be easy to part with. The best practice is to go through your closet looking for items that are stained, falling apart, extremely faded, or that just don’t fit anymore. These clothes should be items that are easy to remove from your closet. Unless the clothing item is severely stained or has tears in it, you can likely donate unwanted clothes to people who need them. Before you take all your clothes to donate, be sure you check with the specific donation facility to see what their guidelines are. Create a Sorting System To make sure that you aren’t mixing clothes that you want to keep with those that are trash or donation you’ll want to create a sorting system. ...

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May 10th, 2023

How to Store Your Winter Clothes Over the Summer

Cleaning And Organization

Once the first signs of warmer weather move into your area, you probably want to do away with those bulky winter clothes that take up so much space. A storage unit is a great option for getting them out of the house to create more space for your summer closet, but you may be wondering how to store clothes in a storage unit. 10 Federal Storage has plenty of options for clothing storage, no matter the season. Read on to learn our best tips on winter clothing storage! Double-Check the Climate If you live somewhere that has attic space available for you to use, this likely is not the best place to store your clothes over the summer. To keep clothes from being damaged, they need to be kept cool and dry, and most attics are not climate-controlled. A storage unit equipped with climate control will keep your clothes at a consistent temperature all year, ensuring delicate fabrics don’t get ruined. Keep Pests Out Most insects and rodents like lots of clutter. To keep them from eating through or otherwise damaging your winter clothes over the summer, schedule a time to clean out your storage unit. If need be, try to reorganize it so that there is limited clutter for pests to hide in. Also be sure to thoroughly clean and dry all clothing before you put it in storage. Any food stains or crumbs left on your garments could invite pests like rodents or cockroaches. In case all else fails, you can also invest in pest control methods like sprays or traps. Storage Methods for Winter Clothes Now that you know where to store winter items and keep them safe, you need to know how to store clothes long-term. There are many different textures to winter clothes. The best rule of thumb when thinking about how to store winter clothes is to fold items that may get stretched when hung up for long periods of time. For ...

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May 1st, 2023

Tips for Organizing Your Storage Unit

Storage units are helpful tools to declutter and organize your life, but just like any space, they can quickly fall into disorganization. Luckily, taking a moment to prepare a plan can make a world of difference — follow these storage unit organization tips to make the most of your space. Create a Plan 10 Federal Storage offers a variety of storage options, meaning virtually any item can be kept safe in personal storage. Because of this, the secret to a well-organized unit lies in packing well. If you’re storing various items in boxes, create clear categories that make sense to you. For residential storage, group items by their utility — kitchen items, garden tools, antiques, decor, etc. Keep Inventory As you group items, keep a thorough list of what is going where. Label each box with its group, like college textbooks, and record a separate list of what each box contains. If you’re storing many similar items, assign a number to each box for your inventory checklist. Pack Smarter, Not Harder Cardboard boxes are inexpensive and work well, but durable plastic storage containers will simplify your packing. These containers are more uniform in size, easy to access, and seal items from moisture, dirt, or pests. Then, pack your containers by placing larger, heavier, and more durable objects on the bottom of the container. Place fabric, bubble wrap, or paper padding between fragile items. If storing temperature-sensitive items, consider climate-controlled storage options. For furniture and larger items, collapse or take apart pieces for easier transport. Some items, like bed frames, may easily come apart for condensed storage. How to Organize a Storage Unit Prioritize how you may need access to items in your unit — your least-needed items should be placed in the back. As you’re able, carefully stack boxes with the heaviest and ...

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April 12th, 2023