It can be difficult to know where to begin with cleaning out and decluttering your storage unit—especially if it’s full of furniture, artwork, and other sentimental items. Whether you’re clearing out your unit or just doing seasonal cleaning, check out these eight tips to help make the process simple and hassle-free!
Take Inventory of Storage Unit Contents
Before you start cleaning and decluttering your storage unit, begin by taking inventory of what’s inside. Note the items you see, count the number of boxes, or take photos to get a clear picture of the work ahead. This process will not only help you determine how long the clean-out might take, but also what supplies you’ll need to complete the project. If possible, remove any large items like mattresses and home appliances to free up space for easier sorting.
Devise a Plan
After assessing your unit’s contents, create a plan for cleaning and decluttering. If needed, arrange for a large vehicle or moving truck to handle larger items like furniture and appliances. Additionally, gather essential packing supplies, including:
- Boxes: Having moving boxes or totes readily available will help keep your items organized and easy to move.
- Garbage Bags: Use heavy-duty trash bags or contractor bags to simplify the cleanup process.
- Scissors: Have a pair of scissors or a box cutter handy to open any sealed boxes from your storage unit.
- Markers: Bring markers to label your boxes and help streamline the decluttering process.
- Gloves: If your unit hasn’t been cleaned in a while, wear gloves as you sort through your items.
- Mask: Consider bringing a mask to avoid inhaling any dust or debris.
Enlist Help
Recruiting friends and family members to assist with your storage unit clean-out can help time go by faster and make the process much more enjoyable! Make notes about the amount of time you’ll spend on each task, how many people you’ll need, and items that are sentimental to you. Schedule a day and time to work on each task, and return equipped with helpers and moving supplies. If you have trouble staying on task or struggle with being objective, consider hiring a professional organizer.
Sort Items Into Categories
The Four-Box Method is a common and effective decluttering method that can help you sort through the contents of your storage unit. Simply sort your items into four separate piles or boxes—keep, toss, donate/sell, and store.
- Keep Box: Items you can remove from storage and bring home
- Store Box: Items that will stay in storage
- Sell Box: Items you plan to sell or donate
- Toss Box: Items broken beyond repair
Start by sorting one small area at a time and challenge yourself to get rid of unneeded items. Having a plan for what to do with items after decluttering can lower future stress.
Sell or Donate Gently Used Belongings
If you choose to donate your items, reach out to local thrift stores or charity organizations to schedule a drop-off time. For items you’d like to sell, you have several options. You could sell the entire storage unit’s contents or individual items through resale apps like Craigslist, Nextdoor, and Facebook Marketplace. If you have more valuable items, consider using eBay or Etsy. Or if you’d prefer the traditional route, you could always host a garage sale!
Recycle or Toss Unwanted Items
Dispose responsibly of any worn-out items that aren’t suitable for donation or sale. Check to see what items your local recycling center accepts and drop off materials like paper, plastic, and glass. Many centers also accept electronics. For large furniture, consider recycling individual parts like wood, springs, and fabric, as these can be reused—or try upcycling the furniture. For items that can’t be recycled, rent a dumpster to work at your own pace, or hire a junk removal company specializing in storage units.
Transport Your Belongings
After you’re done disposing of items you no longer want or need, start packing and loading the remaining items you’re planning to keep into a rented moving van or moving truck. Ensure you have a concrete plan for where you’ll put each item. If you don’t have a place for everything yet, consider renting the storage unit for an additional month to give yourself time to decide—or to donate and sell more items.
Tidy Your Storage Unit
Once all your items are out of your unit, begin cleaning the storage area. Sweep the floors and high corners, using your broom to remove any spiderwebs or debris. Mop the floors if you notice any spills or stains, and wipe down dirty walls. This will help ensure your unit remains damage-free, whether you plan on returning items to the unit or preparing to turn it over.
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