Category: Personal storage

Are you looking for a secure and organised way to store your belongings? Renting a storage unit is the perfect solution! But with so many different sizes available, finding the right one can be tricky. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision when selecting a unit, we’ve created our ultimate size guide. 

Our resource includes valuable tips on assessing space requirements and optimising storage – ensuring that all of your items are kept safe while maximising the capacity of any unit size. 

Ease into organising with our helpful guide today.

Assessing Your Needs

Before you start browsing different unit sizes, it’s essential to create a list of all the belongings you need to store and measure their dimensions. This will provide you with an accurate estimate of how much space you’ll require, ensuring you don’t rent a unit too big or too small. 

By creating a detailed inventory, you can also ensure that your belongings are organised and easily accessible, minimising the chances of damage and confusion when retrieving them.

Pro Tip: If you’re storing furniture, make sure to disassemble it before moving it into your storage unit. This will help you save space and keep your items in better condition.

Choose the Right Storage Unit Size

10 sq. ft. Storage Unit

10 sq. ft unit is perfect for storing small items or a few boxes, such as seasonal clothing, holiday decorations or important documents.  

• Students: this size is perfect for storing dorm room essentials over the holidays. 
• Small business owners: this size is perfect for storing inventory, supplies or equipment. 
• Decluttering your home: this size can help you store those sentimental items you’re not quite ready to part with but don’t have space for in your home.

Pro Tip: Stack your boxes to make the most of your vertical space. Use shelving units to help keep everything organised and accessible.

25 sq. ft. Storage Unit

This size can accommodate larger items, such as bicycles or small furniture items and can fit several medium-sized boxes. 

• You can store a twin-sized mattress, bed frame, desk, chair and a few boxes in this unit. 
• If you’re a small business owner, you can store additional inventory, supplies or files. 
• You can store seasonal equipment, like lawnmowers and gardening tools, during the off-season.

Pro Tip: Use bubble wrap or moving blankets to protect your furniture from scratches or damage during transport and storage.

50 sq. ft. Storage Unit

When it comes to storing larger items like sofas, chairs or mattresses, a 50 sq. ft. unit is an excellent option. This size is also suitable for storing appliances like refrigerators or washing machines. 

• If you’re moving to a new home, you can store the contents of a small apartment or a few large items from a larger home. 

• You can store a queen-sized bed, a dresser, a couch and a few boxes. 
• Small business owners can store large inventory items, like display cases or merchandise racks. 
• Additionally, this unit size is perfect for storing a vehicle, like a motorcycle or ATV.

Pro Tip: Use a furniture dolly or a truck to move heavy items. This will make the process much easier and safer for you and your belongings.

75 sq. ft. Storage Unit

This size can store the contents of a small apartment, including large furniture pieces like couches, tables, appliances and several boxes. 

• Small business owners can store additional inventory, supplies or office equipment. 
• Homeowners can store a queen-sized bed, a dining table set, a refrigerator, a washer and dryer and around 30 medium-sized boxes. 

Pro Tip: Label all of your boxes with the contents and room they belong in. This will make it much easier to find what you’re looking for when needed.

100 sq. ft. Storage Unit

When you have a lot of furniture or a significant collection of items, a 100 sq. ft. unit provides ample storage space. This size can store a full bedroom set, including a king-size bed, dressers, nightstands and several boxes. 

• Suitable for storing large items like sectional couches, dining room sets or pianos. 
• Perfect for homeowners who need to store the contents of a small home or apartment. 
• Perfect for small business owners who need additional space for inventory or equipment.
• You can also use this size unit to store a vehicle, like a car or a small boat, with some extra space for additional boxes or smaller items.

Pro Tip: Use vacuum-sealed bags to compress items like comforters and pillows. This will help you save space and keep your items fresh and clean.

150 sq. ft. Storage Unit and Larger

This size can comfortably accommodate: 

• Large homes or offices that require space for furniture, appliances and equipment. 
• A whole-house inventory; multiple rooms of furniture, appliances and collections. 
• Small business owners who need extra space for their inventory, tools and equipment.

Pro Tip: Store your vehicle on jack stands to relieve the weight on the tires. This will help prolong the life of your tires and prevent flat spots.

Container Storage

Storage containers are a secure and viable alternative to traditional indoor storage units and can be used whether you require a personal or business storage solution. They are perfect for:

• Storing furniture during a large house move.
• Protecting costly items while downsizing.
• Serving as a secure workshop space for entrepreneurs.
• Storing costly equipment and tools.
• Protecting and storing excess business inventory or office supplies.

Pro Tip: Outdoor containers also often offer drive-up access, allowing you to easily load goods from your car into the unit.

Wigwam’s Size Guide/ Space Calculator

At Wigwam Self Storage, we understand that choosing the right storage unit size can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve created a handy space calculator to make it easier for you. 

By simply entering the items you plan to store, we’ll give you an estimate of the unit size that is suitable for your needs. 

Pro Tip: Make sure to measure the height of your items as well as their width and depth to ensure that you select a storage unit with adequate vertical space.

Conclusion

Looking for a storage unit to suit your needs? At Wigwam Self Storage our experts will help you find the right fit! From 10 sq. ft. up to 150 sq. ft. and beyond, we offer expansive storage solutions tailored just for you. Get started today by exploring our convenient online space calculator tool – it’s never been easier to start storing smarter!

As a busy parent, keeping the kitchen organised and clutter-free can feel like a never-ending battle. With so many appliances, gadgets and utensils to store, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and let the mess pile up. Fortunately, there are plenty of kitchen storage hacks that can help you keep everything in its place without breaking the bank.

In this post, we share six genius kitchen storage ideas for busy parents on a budget. Let’s get started!

Use drawer dividers

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to organise your kitchen drawers is to use dividers. You can buy inexpensive plastic or bamboo dividers that will help you separate utensils, gadgets and other small items. This will make it easier to find what you need and keep your drawers from becoming cluttered.

Pro Tip: Before buying dividers, measure your drawers and make sure you get the right size. 

Hang pots and pans

If you’re short on cabinet space, consider hanging your pots and pans from a ceiling-mounted rack. This is a great way to free up cabinet space and keep your most-used cookware within reach. You can buy a ready-made pot rack or make your own using a metal rod and s-hooks.

Pro Tip: If you’re hanging heavy pots and pans, ensure you use sturdy hooks and hardware that can support the weight.

Use a pegboard

A pegboard is a versatile storage solution that can be customised to fit your specific needs. You can hang everything from utensils to pots and pans to cutting boards on a pegboard, and it’s easy to rearrange items as your needs change. Plus, pegboards are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.

Pro Tip: Before hanging a pegboard, make sure you measure your wall and plan out where you want to place each item, to avoid having to reposition the board later.

Use Lazy Susans

Lazy Susans are a great way to make use of corner cabinets or deep shelves that can be hard to reach. You can use a turntable-style Lazy Susan for canned goods or spices or opt for a tiered Lazy Susan that can hold large items like pots and pans.

Hang a Tension Rod

A tension rod is a simple, affordable way to add extra storage space under your sink. You can use it to hang cleaning supplies, spray bottles or extra sponges and cloths.

Pro Tip: Make sure you choose a tension rod with a weight capacity that can support the items you plan to hang on it.

Use Shelf Risers

Shelf risers are a great way to double your storage space without adding extra cabinets. You can use them to stack plates, bowls or even canned goods on top of each other. This is a great solution for small kitchens or apartments with limited cabinet space.

Pro Tip: Ensure you measure your shelves and choose risers that will fit your space.

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If you’re struggling with a small kitchen and don’t want to get rid of items you don’t use often – but do use, Wigwam is here to help. You can store appliances such as your slow cooker (which you only use during the holidays) and other items with us. 

Not sure what size storage unit you’ll need? Use our handy Space Calculator. You can also call us and speak to one of our friendly team members to learn more about our self storage options or grab a quick storage quote online.

It’s easy for belongings to accumulate over time and turn your once peaceful space into a disorganised mess. Decluttering your home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With our beginner’s guide, you’ll be well on your way to simplifying your space in no time.

Step 1: Start with a plan

First, create a plan of action. Take a look around your home and decide which areas need the most attention. It’s best to start with one room at a time and break it down into smaller tasks to make it more manageable. Set a realistic timeline for each task to keep yourself on track.

Pro tip: Take before and after photos to keep you motivated and track your progress.

Step 2: Sort and categorise

Next, it’s time to sort through your belongings and categorise them into piles. One pile should be for items you want to keep, another for items to donate and a third for items to throw away. Be honest with yourself and ask whether each item truly brings you joy or serves a purpose.

Pro tip: Get rid of duplicate items and try to keep sentimental items to a minimum.

Step 3: Purge and donate

Now that you’ve created your piles, it’s time to start purging. Throw away any items that are in the throw-away pile right away – don’t procrastinate on this one. For items in good condition in your donate pile – take them straight to a local charity or thrift store. Just because you created the piles in step two doesn’t mean you won’t change your mind, so it’s good to get the donation and throw away piles before your inner hoarder takes over!

Pro tip: Create a donation station in your home and make a habit of adding to it regularly.

Step 4: Organise what’s left

With the excess items out of the way, it’s time to organise what’s left. Invest in storage solutions like shelving, baskets and bins to keep things tidy. Make sure to label everything to make finding what you need a breeze. Stackable containers and baskets are a great option as you can use them to make use of vertical space, which is often forgotten about.

Pro tip: Use vertical space to your advantage by installing shelves or hanging storage options.

Step 5: Maintain the clutter-free lifestyle

The key to maintaining a clutter-free home is to make it a habit. Make a conscious effort to regularly evaluate your belongings and get rid of anything that no longer serves a purpose. A little effort goes a long way in keeping your space organised and clutter-free.

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Wigwam Self Storage also offers the perfect solution to your decluttering problems! Store your clutter with us. Especially the sentimental items you just can’t get rid of or the furniture you’d like to keep for your kids and grandkids one day. We offer a variety of storage solutions to fit your needs, from small units to store seasonal items to larger units for furniture and bulkier items. And if you need help moving your items from your home to our self storage facilities, we offer a van hire service to help you out. 

Visit our personal storage solutions to learn more about our options and get started on your decluttering journey today.

Living in a cluttered home can be overwhelming. When there’s clutter everywhere, you may find yourself distracted and unable to concentrate on anything, from work to relaxing. The solution to this problem is hidden storage solutions. Places you can put your items out of sight and out of mind but still within reach. Read on for innovative and clever hidden storage ideas to help you declutter your home and enjoy being more organised.

Hidden storage in the kitchen

The kitchen is often the most cluttered room in the house, with countless utensils, pots and pans taking up valuable counter and cupboard space. Hidden storage solutions can help you make the most of your kitchen space. Consider installing pull-out pantry shelves in cabinets to maximise space while maintaining organisation. But don’t stop there! 

• Have you considered installing a hidden spice rack inside a cabinet door? This simple addition can free up valuable counter space while ensuring they are easy to reach. 
• What about a pull-out cutting board that doubles as a hidden storage compartment for knives and other kitchen tools?
• Another clever storage idea is to install a pull-out bin for your recyclables and compostables. This keeps your kitchen organised and tidy while making it easy to dispose of waste and reduce your environmental impact.
• Why not take advantage of the often-overlooked space above your cabinets? Installing a shelf or two up there can provide additional storage for items that aren’t used often.

When it comes to hidden storage in the kitchen, the possibilities are endless. Don’t settle for a cluttered and disorganised kitchen.

Cleverly designed wall shelves

Wall shelves are a fantastic way to add storage space to your home without taking up any floor space. However, traditional wall shelves can be unsightly and clutter up your walls. Cleverly designed wall shelves, such as cube storage shelves, can add both functionality and style to your home. You can use these shelves to display books, art pieces and other decorative items. Some designs even come with hidden compartments ensuring a less-cluttered look.

Pro tip: When installing wall shelves, ensure they are secure and can hold the weight of the items you intend to store on them.

Hidden storage in the bedroom

Transform your bedroom into a peaceful sanctuary with clever hidden storage solutions that keep clutter at bay. With the right storage options, you can create a serene environment that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Here are some examples: 

Bed frames with built-in drawers: 

Say goodbye to messy spaces with this space-saving solution. This functional piece of furniture not only provides a comfortable place to sleep but also doubles as storage.  Bed frames with built-in drawers come in various designs to suit your needs and style preferences. Some come with drawers that glide effortlessly underneath the bed, while others have drawers built into the bed board itself. Whichever design you choose, you’ll appreciate the practicality.

Floating nightstands with hidden compartments: 

Transform your bedroom into a peaceful and clutter-free oasis. These innovative pieces of furniture not only add a modern touch to your decor but also provide convenient storage solutions for all your bedside essentials. The hidden compartments built into these nightstands offer a discreet and practical way to store your belongings. From books and reading glasses to phone chargers, you can keep everything you need tucked away neatly out of sight..

Secret compartments in living room furniture

Upgrade your living space with furniture that not only looks stunning but also maximises every inch of your room. You don’t have to sacrifice style for function with these innovative furniture pieces, making them a must-have for anyone looking to streamline their home.

Ottomans with built-in storage 

These versatile pieces offer a convenient and discreet way to keep your space clutter-free while providing a comfortable seating option for guests. Gone are the days of searching for extra storage space, as Ottomans with built-in storage provide ample room to store blankets, pillows, books and other items. Plus, they can serve as an extra table for drinks and snacks or even as an impromptu footrest after a long day at work. 

Coffee tables with secret drawers

Coffee tables with secret drawers are more than just an ordinary piece of furniture – they are a functional and stylish addition to any living room. These innovative coffee tables offer discreet storage solutions to help you keep your living space organised and clutter-free. With hidden compartments built into the design, you can store anything from remote controls to magazines, books and even snacks. No more fumbling around or worrying about unsightly clutter on your tabletops! You’ll be amazed at how much you can tuck away in the secret drawers.

Hidden storage under the stairs

If you have a staircase in your home, you can use the space underneath for hidden storage. This area can be a built-in cabinet or drawers for storing items that aren’t used frequently, such as seasonal decorations, old photo albums or extra linens. You can even have your very own mini-wine cellar designed – a unique and easy to access solution to filling the gap.

Pro tip: When designing under-stair storage, consider the size and shape of the items you intend to store.

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Whether you choose to use secret compartments in furniture, cleverly designed wall shelves or all of the above, there are many ways to maximise your storage space, including renting a self storage unit with Wigwam Self Storage. We provide safe and secure storage solutions whether you’re looking to store on a short or long-term basis. 

If you’re not sure how much space you’ll need, use our handy Space Calculator. Alternatively, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you! 

The rise of remote work has made home offices more important than ever. If you’re working from home, you need a space that’s comfortable and conducive to concentration. However, if you’re short on square footage, you’re probably struggling to make the most of your work environment. These five tips can help you maximise your home office space while ensuring comfort and productivity – keep reading to learn more.

Find the right location

Ideally, your home office should be in a quiet, low-traffic area of your home. A spare bedroom or an under-utilised living space could be the perfect spot for your office. Alternatively, consider creating a workspace in the corner of a large room, such as a dining or living room. Ensure you position yourself close to a source of natural light. This can significantly enhance productivity. Studies have shown that individuals who consistently have access to daylight are likely to reduce eye strain, headaches and blurred vision by up to 84%.

Choose the right furniture

Furniture is key to creating a functional and comfortable home office. Start by choosing a desk that fits your space and your needs. If you have limited space, a corner or a wall-mounted desk can be a great option. Improper seating arrangements in your home office can result in more than just discomfort. 50% of individuals who work remotely experience regular neck and back pain. Such pain can be difficult to alleviate and may diminish your remote work experience.

Pro Tip: Make sure your chair is comfortable and supportive and consider investing in a standing desk or a stability ball to vary your posture throughout the day.

Use vertical space

Don’t forget about vertical space. Wall shelves, hanging organisers and pegboards can help you keep your desk and floor clear while still giving you easy access to your supplies and tools. 

Pro Tip: Make sure you don’t overload your walls, too many items can become distracting.

Reduce clutter

Keeping your office tidy is essential for productivity and focus – and ensuring you have a spacious feel to your room. Get rid of anything you don’t need or use regularly and invest in organisational tools like desk trays and file holders to keep everything in its place. 

Pro Tip: A clutter-free workspace can help you feel calmer and more in control. Which in turn can boost your efficiency and motivation.

Personalise your space

Adding a few décor items, like plants, pictures or a favourite mug, can help you feel more comfortable and at ease in your workspace. If you don’t have too much space to work with, don’t leave out the décor. Look at purchasing hanging wall plants or simply adding one or two pictures to your wall. The aim is to avoid clutter at all costs while still ensuring aesthetics. 

Creating a home office that maximises your space is possible, even if you’re short on square footage. Renting a self storage unit with Wigwam can give you a clutter-free and spacious work environment. From storing stock to archiving documents, call us on 0800 2545585 to learn more about the business storage solutions we have for you.

Storing furniture in a storage unit can be a great solution for temporarily freeing up space in your home or for protecting your belongings during a move. Here are some tips to help you store your furniture properly:

Clean and protect your furniture

Cleaning and protecting your furniture before storing it is an important step in ensuring its preservation. Dirt, dust and other particles may settle on your furniture during storage which may end up damaging the finish. 

Wrapping your furniture in plastic or covering it with furniture pads is an extra step that can be taken to protect your furniture from scratches, dents and moisture damage. 

By taking these steps, you can make sure that your furniture comes out of storage in the same condition as when you put it in.

Disassemble larger items

If you have larger pieces of furniture, such as a bed frame or a bookcase, it’s a good idea to disassemble them before storing them in the unit. This will not only help you save space but it will also prevent damage. 

Use pallets or plastic containers

Did you know that putting your furniture on pallets in storage can protect it from damage? In fact, it can also make it easier to clean and maintain while also saving space in your unit. 

This small step can have a big impact on the preservation of your belongings during storage.

Store heavy items on the bottom

When stacking items in your storage unit, be sure to place the heaviest items on the bottom and the lighter items on top. This will help to prevent your furniture from becoming damaged or unstable during storage.

Leave some space around the furniture

When packing your storage unit be sure not to pack it too tightly. Leaving  space around your furniture allows air to circulate and prevents mould or mildew from growing. By following these tips, you can ensure that your furniture is not only stored properly but that it’s also protected while in storage. 

Investing in quality packaging plays a large role in keeping your furniture safe. Wigwam Chipping Norton supplies a large range of top-notch packing materials! Call us today  on 01608 656 300 to learn more about what we have to offer.

Anyone who has been married or is busy planning a wedding will tell you that nothing happens overnight. A lot of organising, ordering and stress goes into planning such a special celebration. One way to reduce this stress is to order things ahead of time. Here are a few ways that self storage can help. 

Makes organisation easy  

Self storage can be a fantastic tool for organisation when preparing for your wedding. It gives you a single and secure location to keep all your wedding-related items, allowing you to keep track of everything you need for your big day. 

Allows you to buy in bulk 

Buying in bulk is a great way to save both time and money. However, it can prove tricky if you don’t have space at home to store everything. A self storage unit will give you the extra space you need leading up to the wedding. 

Gives you a workstation  

DIY projects are a great way to save costs when planning a wedding. However, if you don’t want your entire home covered in crafts and glue, rent a storage unit – it may be your best option! Not only will you have space to set up tables and have a workstation, but you’ll also be able to store your projects in your unit when they’re complete.  

Provides a safe and secure location  

Your wedding is such an important day! This is why we understand that you want to know you’re storing your items in a safe and secure location. Not only will a self storage unit provide safety from the elements, but its CCTV security system will also prove handy. 

A place to store wedding gifts   

Using a storage unit for wedding gifts is a practical solution for newlyweds jetting off on their honeymoon straight after the wedding. You’ll be able to enjoy your time away knowing that your gifts will be waiting for you when you get home – while also not getting in the way of your house sitter!  

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The size of a wedding comes down to personal preference. However, no matter the size of your wedding, Wigwam has perfect storage solutions for you. With over 13 different storage unit sizes to choose from, we’ve ensured that there’s something (and space) for everyone!  

Contact us today, or visit our personal storage options to learn more. 

If you’re like most people, the thought of packing your garage gives you nightmares. However, it doesn’t have to be that daunting. Read on for steps on packing your garage like a pro. 

Step one: the purge 

This is your chance to declutter and get rid of everything you’ve been meaning to get rid of for years. It also makes for a simple packing process. Not sure where to start? Here are a few suggested items you should probably get rid of:  

·        Old clothes  

·        Outdated electronics  

·        Exercise equipment you never use  

·        Tools you never use   

·        Anything broken or damaged beyond repair  

·        Kids’ toys they’ve outgrown  

·        Furniture you don’t need or want  

Step two: the clean-up   

Now that your garage is clutter-free, it’s time to give it a good clean. This is especially important if you’re planning on storing anything in your garage during your move – you don’t want your belongings getting dirty before they make it to their new home.  

·        Sweep and dust everything  

·        Wash down all surfaces using a mild cleaner and a sponge  

·        For floor stains, treat with a heavy-duty cleaner before giving the floor a good scrub    

·        Let everything dry completely before moving on    

Step three: the packing  

Start with large items first and work your way down to smaller items. That way, you can make sure everything has a spot – and nothing gets lost in the shuffle.  

Packing tips:    

·        Use sturdy cardboard boxes for small items  

·        Wrap large items in furniture pads or blankets     

·        Label everything clearly     

·        Pack heavier items at the bottom of boxes and lighter ones on top     

·        Use plastic bins for fragile items – wrap each item with bubble wrap first     

·        Don’t overpack boxes     

Step four: storing your belongings   

If you’re not ready to move everything into your new home yet or need some extra space, Wigwam can help. We offer storage units in various sizes so you can store as much – or as little – as you need. Plus, our state-of-the-art security systems will give you peace of mind knowing your belongings are safe until you’re ready for them again.     

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Visit our Personal Storage options or stop by one of our facilities, so we can help you find a perfect solution for your needs! 

If you ask any book lover, they’ll tell you that you can never have too many books. However, it is possible to have too many books in your home.  

Before you get upset, this doesn’t mean that we’re encouraging you to get rid of them. However, it may be time to consider an alternative storage solution. The good news is that Wigwam has the perfect solutions for you. But before we get into that, it’s important to know how to pack and store your books correctly to avoid any damage.  

Here are a few tips on how to do just that:  

Give your books one last clean   

Cleaning books before putting them into storage is a vital step in protecting them from damage. Dust and dirt can accumulate on the pages and covers of your books – which can lead to the discolouration and deterioration of the pages over time. 

Organise your books before packing them  

Organising your books before placing them in storage can make it easier to find and access them when needed. A simple way to do this would be to sort them by author or genre. This also helps you to be mindful of what you already own when considering new purchases. 

Wrap each book with a protective covering  

Wrapping each book may be tedious, but it’s the most effective way to protect your books from damage. Protective covering such as plastic bags or acid-free paper can help prevent dust, moisture and other elements from damaging the covers and pages. 

Make sure that you have sturdy boxes 

Sturdy boxes are crucial when packing books for storage or transport. They provide a secure and protective environment for the books, preventing them from getting damaged. They also ensure a safe way of stacking your books, allowing you to save space in your storage unit. 

Pro Tip: Our team at Wigwam has made finding sturdy boxes easy by selling them at our packaging shop. 

Pack your boxes correctly  

Whether your previous efforts to protect your books were in vain is usually determined by how you pack your boxes. As long as they are never on their spine, the heaviest ones are at the bottom, and you don’t overfill the boxes, you and your books will be just fine. 

Putting your prized possessions into storage may seem daunting. I mean, they’re your prized possessions, after all. However, choosing a Wigwam storage location near you means that you’ll never be far away from them. To learn more about our offers, contact us today! Or visit our personal storage options to learn more.