3 Quick Steps to Clean Out a Storage Unit—Your Ultimate Guide

If you are looking to get rid of unwanted items, then this is the article for you. We will teach you how to clean out a storage unit in 3 steps.

By South Rock Storage

October 15, 2022

Consider a storage unit clean-out if you want to declutter your unit, free up some extra space, or end your lease. Not only will this task free up some valuable space, but it can also be a great way to get rid of old items that you no longer use or need. Following these simple steps, you can make your storage unit as clean as possible and ready for your next move.

First: Prepare

If you are preparing to clean out a storage unit, there are a few things you will need to do to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible. Here are some tips on how to prepare for storage unit clean-outs:

Consider your emotional attachment to stuff

When cleaning out a storage unit, you must consider your emotional attachment to the items. "Stuff" can become a source of comfort and security in our lives, making it difficult to let go. Here are some tips for tackling storage unit clean-out:

Create a plan. Start by creating a list of everything you want to keep and what you need to get rid of. This will help you focus on what's important and decide what to keep.
Make sure your belongings are in good condition. Items that are damaged, outdated or unnecessary will likely be discarded first.
Get organized. Once you have a clear idea of what you want to keep and what needs to go, it's time to get organized!

Inventory

Doing an inventory will help you determine what needs to be cleaned out and eliminated. Knowing what is in the storage unit makes more efficient decisions regarding how much space to take up and how to organize the contents.

An inventory also allows you to plan for future needs. If you know that you will need more storage soon, preparations can be made before the purchase. You won't have to waste time looking for a storage unit that is already taken and filled with unwanted items.

Inventorying your storage unit will help declutter your life and free up valuable space. It's time-saving, too!

Get help from friends and family and set a day

There is no shame in admitting that you need help from friends and family to clean your storage unit. Most people feel more comfortable asking for help when they know a set day for the task. This way, they can control their emotions and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Having a plan will also make the process more efficient. Start by creating a list of everything you need to clear out – physical and digital items. Next, decide on a day when everyone can come over and help you get started. Arrange transportation if necessary, and be sure to let everyone know what time to arrive.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, take time for yourself after everyone leaves. Set up some organizers so that all your belongings are easily accessible, and work through one category at a time.

Needed supplies to clean out a storage unit

If you are ready for a storage clean-out, you will need the following supplies:

A garbage bag or large container to store all of the belongings that you remove from the storage unit
Tape measure
Broom or dustpan
Lysol disinfectant
Sponges or rags

Second: Clean Out a Storage Unit

When cleaning out a storage unit, it is essential to take care of all the items inside. Items such as clothes, furniture, and appliances can be damaged if they are not handled with care. Follow these steps to clean out a storage unit:

Make a list of all the items that need to be cleaned out. This will help you determine what needs to go first.
Sort through the items on your list and put them into categories.
Sweep debris off the floor and into a trash can or bag.
Remove all broken ornaments, pictures, and other pieces of furniture that may be dangerous.
Unpack any large boxes or furniture items and set them up where they will fit in the space available.

Be in the right mood to start decluttering

When cleaning out a storage unit, the right mood is essential. If stressed or angry, you're likely to make mistakes that could lead to more clutter. Here are some tips for getting into the right mindset:

Make a list of everything in the storage unit and what needs to be taken care of. This will help you prioritize your cleaning tasks and avoid putting off tasks requiring more attention until later.
Set realistic expectations for how much time it will take to declutter the storage unit. Don't expect to clean it all in one day or even a few days. Take your time and work systematically through the items, one by one.

How to get rid of things with sentimental value

When cleaning out a storage unit, deciding what to keep and discard can be challenging. There are bound to be sentimental items that have some meaning to you, but you may not want them taking up space in your new home.

Here are a few tips for getting rid of things with sentimental value without feeling guilty:

Make a list of the items and their corresponding values. This will help you weigh the importance of each item and make an informed decision about whether or not to keep it.
Consider donating or selling the items online or at a local swap meet. This will allow you to eliminate them without having them take up space in your home or impact your budget too much.
If you cannot sell or donate the item, consider shredding it or discarding it in a trashcan outside.

Sort stuff into categories like keep, sell, and toss.

When cleaning out a storage unit, it's vital to sort items into categories such as keep, sell, and toss. This will help you focus on what you need and make cleanup easier.

Here are some tips for sorting your storage unit:

Start by grouping similar items together. For example, if you have books and magazines, put them together in one category.
Look for items that you often use and can't live without. These are the things that you should keep.
Consider tossing any item that you don't use or can't store properly. Trying to keep something that won't fit or is just a hassle to deal with is not worth your time.
Make a list of the items you want to keep and place them in specific containers or boxes.

Stay on task and get the job done.

Once you've begun the clean-out process, one of the most helpful things you can do is to stay on task. Try to avoid distractions for yourself and anyone who may be helping you. Items could easily send you down a rabbit hole of memories, but staying on task helps ensure you get the job done as quickly as possible.

Third: Content Removal

Removing any content that you no longer want or could be hazardous when cleaning out a storage unit is essential. While your storage facility may have commercial garbage cans on-site, many prohibit dumping your personal junk there. So make sure you have a plan in place to remove your contents. There are many ways to do this, and the most effective depends on what the items are.

Many of the items you may be removing could be simple household items such as old magazines, newspapers, and clothes. These can be thrown away in your own trash bin, recycled, or hauled to the local dump.

If the storage unit contains materials that must be discarded using specific disposal safety protocols, professional help or hauling to a specialty dump may be necessary.

Creative ways to get rid of storage unit stuff.

Besides hauling your items to the trash, consider if they could be repurposed. Many communities rely upon charitable donations to help those in need. If the things you're discarding are in good shape, consider donating to a local thrift store or charitable group.

Local places in Wichita, KS, to donate your stuff to

When you're ready to eliminate all the clutter in your life and start fresh, consider donating your items to local charities. Here are a few places in Wichita, KS, where you can drop off your unwanted treasures:

Goodwill Industries of Kansas

It is a non-profit organization that provides employment, training, and support for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Their five store locations in Wichita, Kansas.

Goodwill Industries of Kansas accepts donations of clothing, shoes, and household items at its donation centers. Donations are tax-deductible; however, there are some items Goodwill Industries of Kansas cannot accept due to safety concerns or lack of demand from customers (for example mattresses). If you have any questions about whether your item is acceptable for donation, please contact the location nearest you for more information about their drop-off policies before dropping off your donation!

Union Rescue Mission

This organization located in N.Hillside, Wichita, KS provides meals, shelter, and services to people in need. They accept donations of clothing, shoes, and accessories. They do not accept electronics or computers, used mattresses, appliances, furniture, and opened or expired medication.

Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

The five locations of DAV in Wichita, Kansas accept used clothing and household items to be distributed to veterans. They have a website where you can learn more about their mission and find a donation center in your area. You can also call or send them an email with any questions or concerns you may have about donating items.

Sell items from a storage unit.

If it's not going with you, not going to the trash, and isn't being donated, you could always consider selling your items from a storage unit clean-out. Whether it is something as simple as a yard sale or garage sale to taking your items to a consignment shop or pawn shop, the things you no longer want may still have a monetary value. The only thing to consider is if its possible value is worth your time trying to sell it.

Hire a junk removal company if necessary.

If you're in a hurry or don't have time to handle your clean-out, tapping a junk removal service is a popular choice. Here are a few reasons why:

They're trained to do it right. Junk removal companies have professional crews that are well-trained in storage unit clean-out service procedures. This means they will get your storage unit clean and trash hauled away in no time.
They're flexible. Junk removal companies know that not everyone is the same when getting rid of their stuff. They offer various removal services, from small moves to full container loads.
They have the equipment you need. Junk removal companies have the tools and equipment to clear your storage unit out quickly and easily - from big trucks to trailers and forklifts if necessary.

Final Thoughts

If you are in Wichita, Kansas, and looking for extra storage space, don't hesitate to contact South Rock Storage. We can help you find a storage unit that can hold all your items at a reasonable price!

Here are some reasons to choose South Rock Storage for self-storage in Wichita, KS:

Affordable
Convenient
Secure
Well-lit
Clean
Secure

South Rock Storage is a self-storage facility dedicated to providing our customers with an easy and worry-free experience. Whether you need extra space for overflow items or the perfect place to store essential documents, South Rock Storage can help.

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Sorry, You Can't Live in a Storage Unit...and Other Prohibited Items

You can't live in a storage unit as it differs from an apartment. Here's also a list of common prohibited items in storage units.

No, you can't live in a storage unit. This is probably the most common rule, and for a good reason. Self-storage is a great way to store your belongings and essential moving supplies when you don't have the space. It is not meant for human habitation. That's just one of the many items prohibited by most self-storage providers.While each facility has its own list of prohibited items to protect its clients' safety and security, some general rules apply to all. Hence, when selecting a facility, it is crucial to be aware of the list of commonly prohibited items, which may be a deal breaker for some people.This article will discuss commonly prohibited and limited things at a storage facility.Why You Can't Live in a Storage UnitSome people think they can live in a storage unit, but this is not the case. You cannot live in one mainly because they are not designed for residential purposes. There is no running water, no kitchen, and no bathroom. While some people may try to make it work, it is not ideal.These facilities are typically designed for long and short-term storage, meaning people will store their belongings for a while. Such an environment is not conducive for living, as you need a place where you can stay with acceptable living conditions.Additionally, these facilities are often closed off from the public, meaning that you would not have access to the same amenities that you would if you were living in a traditional apartment complex, home, or other legal housing option.You can't live in a storage unit. Same with your petsMany self-storage providers do not allow pets, and those that do allow pets have restrictions on the size and type of pet that can be stored.Pets are prohibited for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is that pets can damage property. They can scratch or bite the furniture, walls, and doors in the storage unit.Pets can also track in mud and dirt, damaging the storage unit's flooring. Some facilities also have rules against leaving food out and attracting pests like rats and cockroaches.Some facilities are in shared residential areas, and landlords do not want tenants with pets because they may cause noise or odor issues.Things to Avoid for Self StorageBelow are some items people mistakenly believe they can store in a self-storage unit. While some places, including South Rock, allow for the storage of some of these items, there may be restrictions.Hazardous MaterialsSelf-storage providers prohibit dangerous materials to protect their customers, employees, and the general public. Self-storage units are not designed to store hazardous materials like gasoline, oil, or pesticides. They are a closed environment, which can be dangerous if hazardous materials are present. For example, if a fire started in a storage unit with hazardous materials, the smoke from the fire could be toxic, and everyone in the vicinity could be harmed.Many facilities are located near residential neighborhoods, so it is essential to keep any potential dangers away from these areas.ChemicalsSome types of chemicals can damage the contents of a storage unit, and in some cases, it isn't even possible to store them. This includes bleach, gasoline, and other flammable or poisonous liquids.Chemicals are prohibited because they can corrode and damage the property stored in the facility.Chemicals can also be harmful to people and cause respiratory problems. To protect the safety of their tenants, facilities prohibit the storage of many chemicals.PerishablesSelf-storage is not the best place to store perishable items like food, beverages, and flowers. These items can become spoiled in a very short time, and the unit may never be able to be rented out again.There are a few reasons why most facilities prohibit perishables. The first reason is that it's challenging to keep track of what's in each unit when food items are present.The second reason is that food can attract insects and rodents and infest the entire facility. Many facilities have rules against storing perishable and unpackaged food to keep their units clean and pest-free.Batteries and Electrical ItemsIf you're looking for a safe place to store your belongings, a non-climate-controlled facility is not the place for batteries or electrical items. Some facilities don't allow these items due to their fire hazards. Not only could a battery start a fire, but it can also release harmful fumes that can be dangerous to both you and the other tenants in the facility.Battery-operated devices like video game systems, computers, tablets, and cell phones can also create a fire hazard. If one of these items were to malfunction or become damaged, it could quickly start a fire. Because of this fire hazard, many electronics and battery-operated devices should be stored in climate-controlled units, no matter their size.AppliancesSome units may allow the storage of appliances such as stoves, microwaves, and refrigerators. However, all appliances must be checked with the facility to ensure they are safe to store.In general, most facilities have restrictions or rules on appliances because they can create a fire hazard. Some appliances contain oil or gas that can easily ignite, leading to a dangerous fire.Many appliances take up a lot of space and can be challenging to move, which can cause problems for other tenants in the storage facility.Some appliances can also damage the property in the storage unit. Aside from cases where appliances have caused fires in these facilities, there is also the potential for water damage if a refrigerator leaks or a washing machine overflows.Illegal Weapons and SubstancesThe reasoning behind this rule is simple: self-storage businesses are a public place, and as such, illegal weapons and drugs cannot be stored on their property. In addition, by prohibiting these items, the facilities can help protect their customers and employees from potential harm.While it may be inconvenient to leave illegal weapons or substances at home, it is essential to remember that the safety of everyone involved is at stake. So if you're looking for somewhere to store your belongings, make sure you check the list of prohibited items first.Types of Self-Storage UnitsThere are many different types to choose from. You can rent storage space by the month or year, and there are many different sizes of units to choose from. The most common type is a traditional self-storage unit, a room or garage-sized unit you can rent by the month.These units are typically climate controlled, meaning they are kept at a steady temperature and humidity level to protect your belongings.Other popular types include:Vehicle StorageVehicle storage can be a great solution when you need to free up your garage or driveway space. Self-storage facilities offer indoor and outdoor parking spaces perfect for storing cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, RVs, and other vehicles. You can typically rent a space by the month or year, and many facilities offer discounts for longer-term rentals.When choosing a self-storage facility for vehicle storage, be sure to ask about security features like locked gates and security cameras. You'll also want to ensure the facility is well-lit and has easy access so you can get to your car when needed. If you're looking for a climate-controlled environment, be sure to ask about the temperature and humidity levels in the facility's parking spaces.Vehicle storage can be a great way to keep your car safe and secure while freeing up space in your home or garage.Climate-controlled storage unitsThese units may be smaller than some of the larger traditional self-storage units available, but they offer all the benefits of climate control. They're perfect for storing documents, furniture, or any other items that need to be kept in a controlled environment.Final ThoughtsWhile storage units can be a convenient and affordable option for short-term storage, they are not suitable for long-term living. The lack of privacy, space, and amenities can make living in a storage unit uncomfortable and impractical. If you are looking for a place to live, please consider other options.Self-storage is a great way to store your belongings, but make sure to check with your local company to see what is and is not allowed. Contact South Rock Storage today. We are an award-winning self-storage facility in Wichita, KS! We have been in business since 2006 and have an excellent reputation for providing affordable, secure storage.We offer storage units as well as expert storage solutions for the entire area. Our clean, safe, and secure facility offers a variety of storage unit sizes to accommodate your needs.

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5 Things You Didn’t Know About Storage Unit Auctions

Are you interested in buying at storage unit auctions in Wichita, Kansas? This guide listed 5 things you probably didn't know about them. Read on.

When most people think about storage unit auctions, they think about the popular television show Storage Wars. While this show is entertaining, it can also be misleading. Storage unit auctions are not like the scenes in the show. There is no excitement or fighting over items. The reality is that it is a lot like a garage sale. There are many misconceptions about auctions at storage facilities. Below are some things you may not know: What is a Storage Unit Auction Storage unit auctions are a recent trend in the United States, and they're exactly what they sound like: an auction of storage units. The storage units are opened, and the bidders can look at everything that's inside before placing a bid. Individuals or businesses who have failed to pay their rent or abandoned their possessions will often have the contents sold at auction. Most storage auctions are handled by a third-party company. This company does the auction, takes payment for the units, and handles all of the paperwork for you. Why Are Belongings Left Abandoned? There are a few possible reasons why items are often left abandoned. Some are as follows: The tenant never bothered to move their belongings out, even after the rental agreement expired. The tenant may have passed away, and their family never claimed the belongings. The tenant may have simply abandoned the unit and moved on without their possessions. Whatever the reason, it's not uncommon to find abandoned storage units littered with old furniture, boxes, and other random items. What Can You Find in Storage Auctions Storage auctions are a great place to find a variety of items at a low price. The most common type of item you will find at an auction in a storage facility is furniture, but you can also find appliances, tools, and other household items. Note though that not everything you find here is valuable. People often attend these kinds of auctions because they are looking for a good deal on items. However, it is important to remember that not everything in the unit being auctioned will be worth buying. In fact, most of the time there will be very few valuable items in the unit. It is important to really take the time to look at the items before making a bid. Moreover, it's also important to remember that you can't always trust what you see. In fact, you must always remember the inherent risk of bidding at an auction. There are simply many things that you can be unaware of - from hidden damage to missing parts - that you cannot always trust what you see. So before you go bidding on that locker full of "treasures," take a moment to consider the risks involved and whether or not it's really worth taking the chance. Know Your Storage Auction Rules There are no specific rules or guidelines in an auction, and things can quickly get out of control if you do not know what you are doing. Make sure you know what you are doing when you attend an auction. Always seek to clarify the rules of the event and if you have questions or uncertainties, never be afraid to seek help. It is open to the public Auctions are open to the public so that anyone can bid on the units. However, be aware that you may not get the best deal possible if you're not familiar with how the bidding process works. The best way to maximize your chances of getting a good deal is to attend an auction or two and watch how the process works. This will give you a better understanding of when to bid and how much to bid. Keep in mind that most units are auctioned off in bulk, so don't expect to get a lot of high-end items for cheap prices. But if you're looking for some good deals on basic household items, storage auctions are definitely worth checking out. It often takes place on weekends Weekends are when most people have free time to attend. The units are usually auctioned off in the order that they were rented, so the earliest units to be rented are usually auctioned first. The auctions usually last for a few hours, and there is a lot of bidding for the best units. Sometimes people will even start bidding before the auction begins in order to get a good unit. People often get very excited at auctions because there is the potential to find some great treasures. You do not need to be present to win You can still win an auction without being there. Yet, there are a few things that you will need to do in order to participate in an auction without being there. First, you will need to find a reputable auction company. Next, you will need to register for the auction and provide a method of payment. Finally, you will need to make sure that you have read and understood the terms and conditions of the auction. Once you have taken care of these things, you can relax and wait for the results of the auction. You have to be prepared to make a quick decision When you go to an auction, there is a minimum bid that you have to put in if you want to participate in the auction. However, at some auctions, there is no minimum bid, so you can bid as little as you want. This can be helpful if you're looking for a bargain or if you're not sure how much something is worth. It also means that someone could potentially win an auction with a very low bid, so it's important to know what you're bidding on and be prepared to pay what the item is worth. When you go to an auction, the bidding typically starts at 50% of the total. This is referred to as the opening price. Keep in mind that this is just the starting point, and the price can go up from there. In order to get an idea of what the final price might be, you need to take into account how much inventory is being auctioned off. If there are a lot of items for sale, then the price will likely go up. Conversely, if there are not many items being auctioned off, then the price could potentially go down. The bidding increments at an auction are typically $5 or $10. This means that when someone bids, the next bid must be at least $5 higher than the previous bid or $10 higher than the previous bid. This system keeps the bidding going and prevents people from just bidding a dollar amount and walking away with the unit. It also ensures that people are serious about buying the unit. It can be unpredictable Storage auctions can be unpredictable. For example, one person might bid on a unit with the intention of finding valuable items to sell, while another person might bid on the same unit with the intention of finding furniture or other household items they can use in their home. This means that the final price of a storage unit can vary drastically depending on who is bidding and how much they are willing to pay. This is all part of the fun! You've Won Your Storage Unit, Now What? The highest bidder wins the unit and many times is responsible for paying all of the fees, including the auctioneer's commission and any storage charges that have accrued since the unit was last paid for. In addition, bidders are typically required to put down a deposit in order to participate in an auction, which is often refundable if they do not win the property. Finally, it's important to be aware of the closing costs, which can include transfer taxes, title insurance, and other fees. Final Thoughts If you wish to know more about storage auctions, don't hesitate to contact South Rock Storage, a reliable storage facility in Wichita, KS. At South Rock Storage, auctions may be hosted once a month if there are units that have been abandoned.

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FAQ

You have questions, we have answers.

When can I move in?

If there is a storage space available that meets your specific storage needs you can move in anytime.

How much notice needs to be given before I move out?

All contracts are month-to-month. However, we do require a 10 day notice before you move out.

What type of documentation do I need to provide in order to rent a space?

We require a government issued photo ID (example: driver’s license, state ID, or passport)

How do I make a payment?

VISA, MasterCard and Discover (credit / debit) are the preferred method of payment. We also accept checks or money orders.

Are there any items that I am not able to store?

Liquids, explosives, flammable liquids, toxic materials and perishables. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding a specific item.

Does there have to be someone to let me through the security gates?

No. At the time of signing you will be given your own security pass code that will allow you convenient access to your unit.

What forms of payment do you accept?

For your convenience, we suggest signing up for automatic payments – using your valid credit card (VISA, Mastercard, or Discover) or debit card. There is no additional charge for this convenience and it avoids late fees. We also have a drop box for after hour payments.

Do I need to sign a long-term lease?

No, we rent on a month-to-month basis unless the customer requests otherwise.

Do I need to bring my own lock?

No. As part of the Move In process, a INSET lock is included with the small admin fee. This type of lock is nearly impossible to breach – and only you will have a key for it. In addition, you may double lock the door, if you prefer.