Category: Personal storage

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!  

---

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.     

---

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. 

Collectables are often valuable and sentimental items that require special care and attention when it comes to storage. Proper storage of these items can help preserve their condition and value over time. The key to successfully storing collectibles is carefully considering their individual needs and taking appropriate measures to protect them.  

That’s why we’ve put together a list of general ways for you to do just that! 

Invest in proper packaging 

Part of ensuring your collectibles’ longevity is making sure you pack them correctly and use the right containers. While different items may require more or less care, there are a number of essentials you should remember when packing any and all items: 

• Use moving boxes: they’re perfect for both moving and storing items  
• Use bubble wrap: it keeps items supported and cushioned when being stacked 
• Use plastic sleeves: this allows you to avoid smudging, staining and dust  

• Use tape and markers: use tape to secure boxes and bubble wrap and markers for labelling your boxes so you know where everything is  

Ensure there is no direct sunlight 

While most people are happy to see the sun, the same can’t be said for collectors and their collectibles. In fact, exposure to natural light can cause any type of item to fade, warp and even dry out. For these reasons, it’s important for collectors to find a safe storage space that doesn’t receive direct sunlight.   

Find a climate-controlled space 

If you’re a collector, you’ll know that most items are extremely sensitive to their environment. This means that changes in the temperature can affect both the condition and value of these items. While high temperatures can cause warping and deterioration, lower temperatures can cause materials to crack. Consider storing your collectibles in a climate-controlled space to avoid any potential damage to your valuables.  

If your storage unit isn’t climate-controlled consider the following suggestions: 

• Purchase a few desiccant pouches (silicon pouches you find in electronic packaging or with new shoes) and place them in your boxes. They absorb excess water in the air and prevent mould and mildew 

• You can also place bowls of kitty litter or baking soda to further combat mould and mildew 
• Wash and properly dry all material-like items before storing them. While items made from material tend to do fine in high temperatures, they can grow mildew or mould in hot weather if any stains or soils are left on them 

In the same way that collectibles vary, so do people’s reasons for collecting them. For some it’s just a hobby that they’re passionate about, to others it’s a profession. However, no matter what your reason for collecting these items is, storing them properly needs to be a priority.  

That’s where Wigwam Self Storage comes in! Not only do we offer a secure location to store your collectibles, but we do so with a wide range of storage units that can cater to your every need as well. Contact us today to start taking care of your collectibles, or visit our Personal Storage options now! 

A hanging tapestry is a unique and personal addition to a dorm room. It brings colour and pattern to an otherwise plain wall, and it is also an inexpensive way to personalise your space and make it feel more like home. Your next question is probably how you can secure it to the wall with minimal damage, right? Well, then we’ve got just the list for you! 

Consider using push pins  

One of the easiest ways to hang a tapestry against drywall is by using push pins. This option gives you the freedom to choose how the tapestry will hang depending on where you put the pins. The only downside to push pins is they leave small holes in the wall and your tapestry. 

Try a few adhesive hooks 

Using adhesive hooks can only be described as a win-win situation. Not only can they be used to hang your tapestry but they can be removed without causing damage to the wall or the material. Whether you choose to tie a piece of string to the corners or add your own grommets, adhesive hooks are an effective way to hang a tapestry.  

Purchase a curtain rod in casing 

Tapestries with delicate material may require a slightly different approach when hanging. In this case, using a curtain rod is the easiest and most fuss-free option. Generally, these tapestries will come with a casing, meaning you’ll need to pick a rod to be placed on top of adhesive hooks. If you’re looking for a more elegant look, this is the option for you.  

Contemplate velcro strips 

If you’re looking for a damage-free option that provides a cleaner look, then you may want to give velcro strips a try. The way the material hangs will depend on where the velcro strips have been placed on both the wall and the tapestry.  

Generally, tapestries take up a lot of room. So, if you’re looking for some extra space to store your tapestries and other bulky items while you go home for the holidays, Wigwam is here to help. Give us a call to find out more or visit our Student Storage options to book your unit today! 

Bah Humbug! Christmas is now over, which means it’s time for the festive decorations to be boxed up and stored away. It’s crucial to properly pack and store your artificial tree so that it remains in mint condition for when you need it next year.

From wrapping fragile décor in bubble wrap to vacuuming every loose particle still seen on your tree, here’s how to properly store your Christmas tree.

Carefully remove all ornaments

Don’t pack your tree away with the ornaments still attached! Remove each one carefully and wrap them in bubble wrap for extra protection before placing them into a protective container. Use cardboard to divide the ornaments inside the container or pack them loosely.

Clean the tree of all debris

Use a soft brush to remove any dirt or debris clinging to the branches. You can also use a vacuum hose attachment to get rid of small particles.

Spay your tree, then make sure it dries

Moisture can cause the tree to rot or grow mildew – even if you didn’t ask for extra green décor. Once you’ve sprayed the tree from head to toe, place it outside to dry.

Pro Tip: to speed up the drying process, stand the tree in a bucket of sand or sawdust – make sure you keep an eye on it and turn it for all sides to dry out evenly.

Wrap your tree in a protective layer

Wrap your tree in a sheet or tarp to protect it from insects, dust and other potential damages. Once it’s wrapped in a protective layer, slide it back into the box it came in. If you have more than one tree, stack them on top of each other.

Pro Tip: if you don’t have the original box your tree came in, you can always ask your local shopping market for one or purchase from our Packaging Shop in Chipping Norton.

---

Christmas trees are a holiday tradition for most families – but a pain to find space for once Christmas is over. Store your seasonal décor with us to save room for life at home. From Christmas trees to Halloween decorations, call us on 0800 2545585 to learn more about our Personal Storage options. 

Winter tires are built for snow! But that doesn’t mean they’re built for the harsh conditions of your garage during the summer months. Storing tires can be a hassle because of their size and all the extra steps needed to keep them in good condition.  

Keep reading for a few tips on prolonging the shelf life of your tires while they’re in storage: 

Make sure tires are clean and dry 

Avoid cleaning products that have petroleum. They can end up causing corrosion if your tires are out of service for a couple of months. Mix mild dish soap and warm water in a bucket and scrub away grime before making sure they are completely dry. 

Pro Tip: Avoid using abrasive tire cleaners, dressing and gloss – they can speed up the breakdown of rubber. 

Keep tires away from sunlight 

Direct sunlight and its UV rays penetrate and heat the rubber inducing premature corrosion and leading the tires to dry out. For extra protection, even in a garage or storage unit, cover tires with a thick sun-proof tarp and store them away from windows or doors. 

Wrap each tire in an airtight plastic bag 

Did you know that oxygen deteriorates tires? While some items require airflow to stay in good condition, tires do better in vacuum-sealed plastic. Vacuum-sealing prevents oil from evaporating and drying out the tires, so wrap each tire individually for the best results. 

Pro Tip: You should still use a thick sun-proof tarp for added protection. 

Pack tires properly 

Tires start picking up deformities if they aren’t packed properly. Unmounted tires should be stored upright or stacked on top of one another. Never hang unmounted tires on hooks – the tires tend to sag. Tires on rims should be hung-up on tire hooks or stacked vertically. 

Pro Tip: Keep tires off the ground on a pallet, hook or shelf and rotate their positions monthly to prevent deformities. 

---

Whether you have a tire business and need some extra storage space or a family looking to store winter tires through the summer – our storage units or containers are dry, spacious and perfect for your tires!  

Call us on 0800 2545585 to learn more about our business storage or personal storage options. Alternatively, get your quick quote here!