 Not to jinx it, but it might be safe to say that we are FINALLY out of winter weather here in Southeast Michigan. Thankfully, that means it's time to break out the outdoor furniture from your U-Lock-It self storage unit. So picture this: you're sitting in your backyard, sipping an ice tea, listening to the summer birds sing, waiting for friends to join you for a barbecue. Sounds nice, right? But before we can make this warm weather fantasy a reality, we have to prep your outdoor furniture.
Since patio furniture is one of the most common items people choose to put in self storage, we thought it would be helpful to share some tips on how to prep your outdoor furniture for the summer. Happy relaxing, friends! Check for damage Checking for damage on your outdoor furniture might seem obvious, but you don't want your neighbors coming over for a backyard dinner to find out one of the chairs has a crack. Unfortunately, most people refuse to accept the end of summer and wait until the last minute to put their lawn furniture into storage. For this reason, minor damages from summer use go unnoticed. Give your outdoor furniture a once-over and determine if you need to make any repairs or even replace your set pieces. For example, if your furniture is wooden, you can repair small cracks with wood filler. When it comes to repairs, YouTube is your friend. You can find videos for every kind of repair you can imagine. For instance, watch this video on how to replace the fabric on your patio sling chair. Dealing with rust Rust happens. Thankfully, you can avoid rust becoming a serious problem by removing it as soon as you see it. Sandpaper is your best bet at removing the rust, followed by a rust-inhibiting sealer such as wax or primer. Check out these affordable tips on removing rust stains from your lawn furniture. Cleaning tips Unfortunately, from dirt to bird poo, patio furniture can acquire a lot of grime over the months. If you have metal lawn furniture, a scrubber and some water are likely all you'll need. If there are some tough to wash areas, mild dish soap will do the trick. Ensure your furniture dries before placing it in the sun to avoid spots. As for wood furniture, you can keep using the mild dish soap or opt for a plant-based cleaner (especially if you have teak furniture). And for the cushions, we encourage you to read the tags to learn how to clean them. You can wash most cushion covers in the washing machine, but if not, we suggest spot cleaning with a rag and water. We hope these tips for preparing your lawn furniture for the spring are helpful. Odds are you'll find your furniture in good shape since you kept it safely in a self storage unit. If you're looking for affordable self-storage in Belleville with 24-hr gate access, then look no further than U-Lock-It. Please call us today for summer availability and be added to our wait-list.
0 Comments
 We have entered that ambiguous time on the calendar when one day feels like spring, and then you're shoveling snow the next. It's what Midwesterns lovingly refer to as "false spring" and "third winter." But, no matter how firm old man winter's grip may seem, it'll eventually give way to make room for spring, and with it, warmer weather. As always, spring is a jubilant time in Michigan. And while we are all riding that high of breaking out our shorts, there is also work to do.
Spring is the ideal time to clean and get organized, whether you have a home with a yard or live in an apartment. In the same way nature is going through a renewal, so should you! Thankfully, using your Ypsilanti Self-Storage unit is an affordable way to reduce clutter so you can feel renewed and organized going into the summer. To help you on your way, here are three tips to make the most of your self-storage unit this spring. Don't store what you no longer need Our self-storage with 24-hr gate access makes it easy to drop off carloads of stuff while you do your spring cleaning. While you're welcome to fill your unit as needed (please follow our guidelines), we suggest storing your items properly so they don't get damaged. Here's what we mean. If you are cramming in things you no longer need, you make it more difficult to access the ones you do and even risk damaging them. Before taking new items to your self-storage unit, ask yourself if it's going to sit there forever or you'll use it again. If the former is true, then let's explore other options. For example, spring is a great time to host a yard sale. That way, your unwanted items can find a new home, and you can get some cash in your pocket. For the items that don't sell, consider donating or finding an option to recycle. Properly storing your Winter Items As we mentioned in the intro, there's nothing better than breaking out the shorts to replace your snow pants. But you don't want to rush into spring and damage your stuff. So here are some tips for storing everyday winter items. Snow blower: Before storing your snow blower, make sure to drain the fuel, add a fuel stabilizer, clean and lubricate, and cover. Winter clothes: Wash your winter clothes, fold sweaters, hang clothes that can wrinkle, and keep in plastic bins with secure lids. Ice melt: Have an opened bag of ice melt you didn't use? We suggest storing it in an air-tight container, which will help avoid hardening. Holiday lights: Rushing to put your holiday lights in storage now will result in aggravating detangling come next December. So instead, check out these DIY Christmas light storage tricks. Keep blankets and sheets in storage No one wants to sleep under flannel or wool blankets in the summer. So before you throw your winter sheets and blankets in a closet or the basement, we suggest putting them in your self-storage unit. Why? Well, for one, you'll declutter. Blankets, even when folded, take up a lot of space in a closet. Also, sheets might get a little musty if stored in the basement. Similar to your sweaters, keeping winter blankets and sheets in plastic bins will keep them fresh and safe from moisture. We hope these tips help you get organized this spring and make the most of your Belleville self-storage unit. If you're looking for an affordable and safe storage option, give us a call! Enjoy the warm weather, folks.  At U-Lock-It Self Storage, we have many kinds of renters. From the seasonal "I need somewhere to store my RV over the winter" to the "I only need a unit for a month or two while I move" to the long-term renters who have enjoyed convenient self-storage for years. However, no matter how long you plan on renting, eventually, the not-so-pleasant task of cleaning out your unit will come to fruition. Like moving to a new living space, moving your belongings from your storage unit takes planning, work, and maybe even a little help from a friend. To assist, we've put together four tips for cleaning out your Belleville self-storage unit to help keep the stress at a minimum.
Take an Inventory before moving out of your self-storage unit For many, a self-storage unit accumulates new items as time goes by, and unless you've been keeping track, you might be surprised at the amount of stuff you have in your space. Therefore, we recommend taking an inventory before your move-out day. Go through your unit and write down every item, its condition, and whether or not you plan on keeping it. Further, note what you might need to help keep your things safe, like boxes and moving blankets—you can purchase boxes and other moving items in our office! Take out the trash Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of things you no longer need. Before moving out your items, go through your unit and decide what is worth taking and what is not. We recommend doing this before your moving day so that you don't rush it and have to put everything in the trash. While you'll toss some items, others might still be of use to others. Consider selling or donating unwanted clothes, furniture, toys, equipment, etc. Moreover, you'd be surprised at the array of what you can recycle. A quick search will help you find the proper recycling facility to drop off such items from electronics to toxic items such as fertilizers and cleaners. Keep in mind that leaving behind what you don't want is NOT an option. Help is on the way Make sure you have the help you need As noted earlier, you might have more in your storage unit than you even remembered. After taking an inventory:
If you have any questions regarding move-outs, auctions, etc., please don't hesitate to call our office. The last thing we want is for you to get in a situation where you're not out by the correct date due to a misunderstanding. At U-Lock-It, we are committed to helping our customers from lease signing to move-out day. Our friendly office manager will gladly walk through the process with you and help answer any moving questions you might have. We hope these tips make cleaning out your storage unit less stressful. If you're looking to move into a unit, please call our office for availability.  If you're searching for the best self-storage in Ypsilanti or Belleville, you might want to consider gate access. What is gate access? As one would expect, self-storage facilities usually have an electric gate that customers can access via a personal code, key, etc. Security is the primary motivation for the gate; we doubt you'd want to store your favorite boat or RV in a lot with no gated fence. But sometimes, security comes at the expense of convenience. For instance, many storage facilities will keep their gates locked after hours, which means you'll have to wait until they open the following day. Well, that's no good. Don't worry; here at U-Lock-It Self Storage Belleville, we offer 24-hr gate access. Let's look at three benefits of 24-hr gates access with your self-storage.
Please don't hesitate to call us for the availability of our indoor and outdoor storage spaces! 24-hr Gate access makes vacations easier Imagine it's the final day of your RV road trip exploring the Leelanau Peninsula. Though you were able to eat your way through Traverse City, admire local art in Glen Arbor, and burn some calories on the dunes at Sleeping Bear, it's now the final day, and you're running out of time. Since you don't have a place to park your RV at home, you have no choice but to make it back to your storage facility before it closes and the gate locks for the night. You factor in driving time, traffic, etc., and, sadly, have to remove a visit to Fishtown from your final day's schedule. When you rent from a Ypsilanti self-storage facility with 24-hr gate access, you won't have to shorten a weekend trip. Whether you get in early or after midnight, you'll have access to your secure and convenient unit. That means less time watching the clock and more time enjoying the final day of a vacation. 24-hr Gate Access is Great for Entrepreneurs Here at U-Lock-It Self Storage Belleville, we are proud to host many entrepreneurs and small businesses. And while you can't operate your business out of a storage unit, you may utilize the affordable storage to keep inventory, transportation, etc. For instance, many smaller landscaping companies will store their lawnmowers, hedgers, etc., in a secure unit and access them when needed—as you can see, having 24-hr access to items that are critical for your business. Please read our article on why business owners should consider renting self-storage. 24-hr access makes moving less stressful A popular reason someone might rent self-storage is that they are in the process of moving. Why? Because having an affordable and secure place to keep any items that don't fit in your new location is much easier than getting rid of belongings. And as you may know, moving is extremely stressful, and, similar to an action movie, a ticking clock only increases the suspense. For example, if you're ending a lease, many landlords will give you a specific date and time that you need to be out. With 24-hr gate access, you can take your time to pack thoughtfully and not have to worry about getting items to your storage unit before it closes. No matter your situation, it's never a bad thing to access your items whenever you need them. 24-hr self-storage gate access is one of the many benefits of choosing U-Lock-It Self Storage for your Belleville storage needs. Please call us today for availability.  Whether you want to call it decluttering or "tidying up," we see you, Marie Kondo, removing old and unnecessary items is a smart move. And yes, there's a distinction between decluttering and cleaning. For example, the former is an action to make your items, location, etc., clean from dirt, stains, and germs. The latter is the act of sorting through things and removing or moving them to make better use of your space. So if stacks or piles of items currently enclose you (help, I'm trapped by my stuff!), or have a hard time finding things among the clutter, then this list is for you. Let's explore four benefits of decluttering. Oh, and we should mention that a self-storage unit is an excellent option for decluttering. That's right; you don't have to throw things away!
If you plan on decluttering your home or office soon, please call U-Lock-It Self Storage Belleville for a safe and accessible place to keep your items. Declutter to Feel Good About Yourself While some people enjoy the clutter and chaos of a messy office or home, others equate it to loss of control. We know that life can get hectic and stressful, and staying organized sometimes takes a back seat to you paying the bills, raising your kids, or getting your business started. But when you do get a chance to look up, seeing a mess only makes matters worse. Time to declutter! Dedicating time to decluttering your space will make you feel like you're in control again, which may boost your self-esteem. Further, decluttering is therapeutic to some people and makes for productive use of a day off. So put on some tunes, make a plan, and declutter! You'll feel good that you did. Declutter for Better Focus You have a big work project on the horizon, which wouldn't be so bad if it didn't time-up with a friend's wedding, the start of summer, and a relative's graduation party. Don't panic. Begin a busy time in your life with decluttering to help you stay focused. You won't have time to waste looking for something or clearing off your desk once you get busy, so better to prepare for it now. Moreover, as we alluded to in the previous section, the last thing you want to come home to when you're hectic at work is a cluttered and disorganized house. Get rid of the jumble and stay focused! Declutter for a Healthier Lifestyle For some, their house is a reflection of how they live. For instance, a messy and cluttered kitchen might lead to more takeout, frozen dinners, or too much snacking. On the other hand, if your kitchen is clean and organized, you'll be more likely to cook a healthy meal since finding the proper utensils and ingredients won't hassle you. And what about the bedroom? While some people sleep like a baby no matter what the conditions are, others might find it harder to sleep in a cluttered and messy bedroom. Do yourself a favor and declutter for your health. Not only will your self-esteem get a boost, but you might eat and sleep better too. Declutter for Your Friends and Family For many, a cluttered home might be the reason why they never host functions. Whether you're too embarrassed for people to see the clutter or don't have the room to host guests, taking the time to declutter could be the answer. Similar to how decluttering can boost your self-esteem and health, it can also improve your social life. Having a place you're proud of to share with family and friends will encourage you to invite people over more often. Further, your guests will appreciate you taking the time to organize so they are comfortable. As you see, there are many reasons to declutter your home or office. And don't stress, you can still keep your items safe and accessible in a Ypsilanti self-storage unit. So if you plan on decluttering, don't hesitate to call U-Lock-It Self Storage!  Here at U-Lock-It Self Storage Belleville, we take pride in offering safe, accessible, and convenient self-storage at an affordable price. Further, we love doing business in the Belleville, Ypsilanti, and Ann Arbor areas, which is why we treat our customers as neighbors. With those two things in mind, it's no wonder that so many of our customers rent from us year after year. We also understand that self-storage is an investment, and there are many factors to consider when deciding to rent storage. For instance, self-storage can actually save you and your business money.
With real estate prices continuing to rise, self-storage offers a safe and affordable alternative. Moreover, business owners should also consider self-storage to help cut back on overhead and rent expenses. Here are four ways self-storage can save you money. Call us today to rent your Ypsilanti storage unit from U-Lock-It! Downsize your living expenses The housing market continues to drive home prices and apartment rents through the roof (no pun intended). Renting a self-storage unit at our low prices will help you downsize your living space, which means lower rents and mortgages. For example, our 10x20 units can hold the contents of a one-car garage. If you have many seasonal items, such as snow blowers and summertime RVs & campers, it's more affordable and safer to keep them in storage than to purchase a home with an oversized garage. For renters, you may have enough items to fit in a two-bedroom apartment, but only the budget for a one-bedroom. Our 10X10 storage units are large enough to accommodate furniture, appliances such as refrigerators, and more. While having a larger apartment is nice, the location of your apartment might be more critical. By utilizing self-storage, you can move to a smaller apartment in an area with more to do and explore. Save your business money with self-storage Not every business needs a large warehouse or office these days. For instance, a local landscaping company might only have enough equipment to fill a 10x20 unit, or a moving company might only need a place to park its van. Why spend all that money on a warehouse or office when you can rent a self-storage unit? Here at U-Lock-It, many small business owners choose to rent with us because we offer 24-hr gate access, which means they can check on inventory, tools, cars, etc. whenever they choose. Also, if you are utilizing your storage unit for your business, you should consider writing the expense off on your taxes. We suggest talking to your accountant for more information. Just keep in mind a storage unit can help save you money by reducing your office space, but it's not an alternative. In other words, you are more than welcome to store business items in storage safely, but you can't physically run your business from a unit. Reducing clutter can improve productivity If you do own a business with an office, then self-storage offers an affordable way to keep it from getting cluttered. For instance, if your company has many seasonal items or tools/equipment you only use sparingly throughout the year, consider self-storage. Why? Because clutter can disrupt productivity and lead to damaged and lost items. Have peace of mind knowing your company's products are secure in your unit, as well as accessible with our 24-hr gate access. According to Figari.com: "Decluttering with a healthy amount of an organizational overhaul not only sanitizes a space, it can also elevate work quality, boost efficiency, and improve one's health." Make the most of deals and promotions We understand that renting a storage unit is an investment, and we know you work hard for your money. That's why we often offer sign-up deals such as "second month off" or "20% off your first month." Further, we offer the lowest prices in town and won't rope you in with deals then stick you with unexpected costs. For our current customers, you can save on your next month's rent with our referral program. Tell your friends, family, and neighbors about U-Lock-It, and if they sign up for a unit, you'll save money on your next month. Talk to our Office Manager for more information on our referral program. As you can see, renting a self-storage unit from U-Lock-It Belleville might lead to money savings in other aspects of your life. Please call us today to book your storage unit!  Let's all take a deep breath, and with the release, leave 2020 in the past. Feels good. And now, we look to a new year and a blank slate. While many of our habits, for better or worse, will remain another year, there's no reason why we can't make improvements this time around. Further, the bar is set lower than ever before, so you don't even have to place too ambitious of resolutions. A simple one is renting a storage unit. And we aren't just saying that because, you know, we are in the business. Here are 4 reasons you need self-storage in 2021.
Also, while your need might not be urgent, renting a Belleville self-storage unit in the winter is a smart move. Why? Because spring and summer are our busiest months and desired lots, such as outdoor spaces for boat and RV storage, tend to sell-out fast. Here are our four reasons to book a self-storage unit in 2021! You start a business Last year was a tough one for businesses. And while tragically too many had to close, many people put on their entrepreneurial hats and started new companies. So whether you're an experienced business owner or have plans to start one in 2021, a Ypsilanti self-storage unit can help you along. For example, many entrepreneurs store equipment, products, and marketing material in a storage unit. Doing so is much more affordable than renting an expensive office space large enough to keep all of your materials. Types of businesses that often utilize self-storage include landscaping, construction, retail, and eCommerce. Our outdoor storage spaces are perfect for parking any trailers or automobiles you use for your company. You plan on moving Many of us will make a move to a new home, apartment, etc., this year. Doing so can be a headache when figuring out where to put all of your stuff. This dilemma is especially true when you move into a smaller space. Renting a storage unit from U-Lock-It Self Storage Belleville will remove the stress and give you an additional storage option when moving. For instance, don't worry about your summer items such as grills and lawnmowers fitting into your new living area. With a unit, you can keep them safely stored until the warmer months. You want to get organized After getting in shape, getting organized might be the second most popular resolution. Moreover, with de-cluttering on people's minds, a self-storage unit is an excellent solution to a crowded living area. Further, putting items in storage is easier for many people than simply tossing out things with sentimental value. Since our storage units have 24-hour gate access, you'll have access to anything you need throughout the year. You plan on traveling a lot Travel was a bit different in 2020. Instead of trips to the beach, we all took walks to the fridge, road trips to the same grocery store, and overnights stay on our sofas. In other words, travel wasn't too exciting last year. As it becomes safer to travel, odds are you'll want to make up for the lost time. Renting a storage unit is a great way to keep your travel accessories safe and secure for when you need them. For example, our outdoor spaces are perfect for boats, RVs, and campers! Since our facility has 24-hr gate access, you can go on as many impromptu trips as you like. A friendly reminder that our outdoor units tend to fill up fast in the spring, so secure your spot in the winter. There are many reasons to rent a Belleville storage unit in 2021. U-Lock-It Self Storage is here to help you on your way. Please call us today for availability.  For those who like to travel in comfort, RVs offer a home away from home wherever you decide to wander. Hitting the open road in an RV is one of the best ways to see our beautiful country. But RVs take up a lot of space, and tend to get seasonal use, so how should owners store their RVs?
Whether you're a new or seasoned RV owner, we hope these tips will help you properly store your RV. Choose The Right RV Storage Facility Finding the right place to store your RV depends on many factors. An RV is an investment, so you'll want to make sure it is secure in storage. Before you type in "RV storage near me" on Google, make sure you know your budget, size of your RV, and how long you plan on storing it at the facility. The location will be important, as you won't want to travel too far to take it out for a weekend. Also, consider a storage facility that offers 24-hour gate access. That way, you'll be able to take your RV out whenever you please (we know how those impulsive travel urges go). U-Lock-It Self Storage Belleville offers a safe, accessible, and affordable outdoor storage option for your RV. No Free Rides RVs are comfortable and convenient for people, but critters might also want to take a ride. Give your RV a thorough once over for any signs of mice, bugs, or, goodness forbid, something larger. Check drawers, under counters, and even pop the hood. Other than spreading germs, unwanted critters can cause some severe damage to your RV. For example, mice can chew through wires, which might even pose a fire hazard. Double-check and adequately seal all windows, doors, vents, and anywhere else that might make for an opening to wildlife. Don't underestimate the tenacity of a mouse. Clean Until it Looks Like New After a summer of road trips, your RV might be looking a bit messy. While it's convenient to park your RV at a local outdoor self-storage facility and say, "I'll worry about it in the spring," we suggest you give it a thorough cleaning before storing it for several months. Clean out all drawers, including bathroom medicine cabinets. Cold weather could lead to leftover toothpaste and other bathroom items to freeze and break, causing a mess. As mentioned in the critter section, don't leave any food in your cupboards or the fridge. No, that ketchup and mustard won't be good next summer. Scrub the inside of your fridge, microwave, or any other built-in food preparer with water and appropriate cleaner. You won't want to find a mold problem when you take it out of storage. Read these tips for maintaining your RV for a winter trip if you decide to take it out in the snow. Take Cover! No matter how good your tires look, there's a chance that the weather is taking its toll even if you aren't using your RV. Avoid weather cracking on your tires with a cover. Check out this list of the best RV tire covers. Over time, the sun can damage furniture, so make sure you put your blinds down before leaving your RV in storage. Engine maintenance You can't expect to leave your RV in storage long-term and then have it up and running if you skip engine maintenance. Before putting your RV in storage, change its oil, check the antifreeze levels, and add fuel stabilizer. Remember to run the engine so that this stabilizer can make its way through the system. You'll want to check back every couple of months and run the engine on idle for a while. We hope this list is a good starting point for those looking to store their RVs. Please consult the vehicle's manual for additional tips and procedures. Don't hesitate to call U-Lock-It Self Storage Belleville to learn about our outdoor units.  Self-Storage Tips: Getting Ready for Fall There's no denying things will be different this fall, but the leaves are still changing, and temperatures will drop. As we enjoy the sweater weather and hot cider, it's time to start preparing for the winter. Our affordable Belleville self-storage units are perfect for keeping your summer items safe while you make room for snowblowers, jackets, and scarves. Here are a few tips to make the most out of your end of the season storage. Are you looking for a unit? Please call U-Lock-It Self Storage today for availability. Keep it organized It's more fun taking out the swimsuits than it is putting them back in a box. There's no denying that. But you should still take your time and keep organized when putting away your summer items. Make sure you pack clothes neatly in a box with other clothes (i.e., don't store them along with summer toys). Label every box, so you're not scrambling next spring. Do you really need that? Storing items to make room for the next season is the perfect opportunity to eliminate clutter. While you're filling your boxes, ask yourself, "do I really need this?" If the item is still in good shape, consider selling or donating. This is a great way to free up room and use fewer boxes. Proper storage We suggest using labeled plastic bins for storing summer clothes. Storing this way will keep your clothes looking and smelling great when you take them out in the spring. For lawn furniture, we suggest cleaning thoroughly before putting the covers on them. If you don't have lawn furniture covers, we recommend using a tarp. While it's no fun thinking about winter when the sun is still hot, you don't want to miss out on the opportunity to beat clutter with an Ypsilanti self-storage unit. Call us today for availability and prices.  Supplies You’ll Need When Moving
Moving is never fun. Whether you’re moving or helping out a friend (hopefully they will pay it forward), the best way to ensure a move without stress is by staying organized. Having the right supplies will make your life a lot easier during the move and whenever you decide to unpack. Here at U-Lock-It Self Storage of Belleville, we offer a range of supplies from boxes to glass kit packages to help you move. Further, our secure self-storage units provide a great place to put your items during the moving process. We’ve put together a quick list of items you’ll want to have on hand before your next big move. 1. An organized inventory list Unless you are only moving a few larger items, we suggest writing down an organized inventory list to keep track of your things. Moving can often be a discombobulating experience, especially if you are in a hurry to get out of where you’re currently residing. An inventory list will remind you what has been stored and where. For example, number each box and coordinate the items accordingly, or write out the inventory list of each box directly on the cardboard. 2. Boxes, Boxes, and More Boxes Did we mention that we sell boxes at our U-Lock-It office? Because you’re going to need a lot of them in various shapes and sizes. We recommend using specialized boxes such as TV and hanging boxes for such items. Glass pack kits for boxes help ensure the safety of delicate glassware, and specialized artwork shipping boxes can keep your paintings and photos safe during the move. Make sure you have lots of packing tape as well! 3. Garbage Bags and a Recycling Bin With decluttering all the rage, moving offers an opportunity to discard, donate, and recycle items you no longer need. Stay organized by having a designated trash bag, recycling bin, and bag for items to donate. The cleaner you can keep your place during a move, the less stressful it will be when you’re nearing the end of your hard day. 4. Furniture Pads Furniture is an investment, which is why it’s worth storing such items that might not fit at the moment. Furniture pads will help protect not only your chairs, sofas, etc. but also your walls! We recommend plastic furniture covers, so your items smell and look clean after the move or in storage. There are many other items, including markers, box cutters, and straps you might need, but we hope this list is a good start. We wish you the best of luck on your next move, and please keep our affordable self-storage units in Belleville, MI, in mind if you need any extra space for your items. |
Author
U-Lock-It Self Storage Belleville, MI. Archives
June 2021
Categories
|
RSS Feed