Storage Features
Trusted Since 1988
Trusted Since 1988
Articles & Tips
Homeowner Tips
January 31, 2018
|5 min
As the memory of another winter fades, it’s time to take your outdoor furniture out of storage so you can enjoy cookouts, lounging in the sunshine and taking in the cool summer breezes at night. It’s important to follow proper outdoor furniture maintenance to keep your patio furniture looking fresh and clean throughout the years.
The first step is to take your patio furniture out of wherever you’ve been storing it for the winter, whether you’ve been keeping it in the garage, the basement or at a rental storage space. Make sure to clear a path by moving any nearby boxes or other stored items out of the way before you try to move your furniture. Without a clear path, you risk dinging or scratching your furniture. You also need to make sure you have enough helpers for moving your furniture. Lighter items might only require one individual, while heavier items might require several individuals. Before you begin moving, have a plan in place for where you want the furniture to go. Also, if you are taking your patio furniture out of a storage facility, ensure that your vehicle can accommodate all pieces or plan ahead for several trips.
Start by clearing away any loose debris, either with a vacuum or dry rag. Spray furniture gently with a hose (a power setting can damage or chip furniture). Use a rag and a bucket of soapy water to clean your furniture. Use warm water and not hot water, which many manufacturers warn against. Dishwashing liquid is usually best as it’s effective at removing dirt without damaging your furniture. Depending on the type of material you are cleaning, follow these tips on how to clean outdoor furniture:
Once your furniture is clean, you’ll want to take necessary steps to protect it from the elements, namely the sun. You may want to use a stain block that includes UV blocking protection if appropriate for the material of your outdoor furniture. For metal and plastic furniture, you can use an outdoor furniture protector. Wood furniture can be painted with a brand that offers UV protection. Be sure to cover cushions or bring them inside when not in use.
Before you store your furniture for the off-season, remember to clean it property using the same process you did pulling it out of storage. This will help keep your furniture looking newer year after year. If you need any packing supplies for cushions and smaller items, consult your self-storage location’s offerings to see if they carry these items onsite.
Explore our solutions tips below to get tips and advice on how to properly store your belongings.
1 Bedroom Apartment
2 Bedroom Apartment
2-3 Bedroom House
4+ Bedroom House
Single Dorm Room
Studio Apartment
Half the height of our standard 5' x 5', our lockers will hold personal items, clothes boxes, business records and sale rep materials. This is our smallest storage unit. Available at most locations.
How big is a 5x5? A 5x5 will hold personal items, clothes, boxes, small furniture items, business records and sales rep materials.
Will hold small amounts of furniture, boxspring and mattress, business records and other small items.
Will hold a 1 bedroom apartment w/major appliances, other furniture and supplies.
What will fit in a 10x15? This size storage-unit will hold contents of a 2 bedroom apartment or house including appliances and boxes, or commercial storage inventory.
Will hold contents of a 3 bedroom apartment or house plus major appliances and lots of boxes. Business storage, ideal for storage racks.
Will hold contents of a 4 to 5 bedroom house with major appliances and room for boxes. Business storage for files, equipment and permanent records.