Home Organization Hacks

Transforming your home into a haven of organization and efficiency requires a blend of creativity, resourcefulness, and practical strategies. These innovative and creative solutions help you make the most of your available space, simplify daily routines, and add a touch of personalization to your home. Whether you’re tackling a small apartment, a family home, or an office space, we have some practical and aesthetic tips that will enhance your quality of life. You won’t need much more than a little bit of dedication and ingenuity. Check out these organizational hacks:

Repurpose and Upcycle: Giving New Life to Old Items

Before seeking out new storage solutions, look within your existing possessions for hidden potential. Repurposing and upcycling offer a sustainable and cost-effective approach to maximizing space and organization:

• Transform old shoeboxes into organizers for stationery, craft supplies, or small personal items, adding a touch of personalization to your storage solutions.
• Convert sturdy cardboard boxes into storage containers for seasonal items, pantry staples, or children’s toys, covering them with decorative paper or fabric for a stylish touch.
• Give a second life to glass jars by using them to store spices, dried goods, bathroom essentials, or even homemade candles, adding a rustic charm to your storage spaces.

Embrace Multifunctional Furniture

Integrate multifunctional furniture pieces that serve multiple purposes, maximizing your space and reducing clutter:

• Opt for ottomans with hidden storage compartments to stash away blankets, pillows, or extra linens, creating a dual-purpose seating and storage solution.
• Invest in a storage bed with built-in drawers or compartments to store extra bedding, seasonal clothes, or infrequently used items, maximizing space under the bed.
• Choose a coffee table with lift-top storage to keep magazines, remote controls, or board games organized and out of sight, while maintaining a stylish centerpiece for your living room.

Vertical Storage Solutions

Unlock the potential of vertical space by utilizing walls for storage, creating additional storage options without compromising floor space:

• Install wall-mounted shelves or floating shelves to display books, decorative items, or collectibles, freeing up floor space and adding visual interest to your walls.
• Hang pegboards or rails in kitchens, bathrooms, or workshops to organize utensils, tools, or cleaning supplies, keeping them within easy reach and adding a touch of industrial chic.
• Utilize over-the-door organizers for hanging towels, cleaning supplies, or accessories, maximizing unused door space for efficient storage and keeping essentials within easy reach.

Labeling and Categorization

• Label storage containers, boxes, or drawers with clear and concise labels, indicating their contents for quick identification and retrieval.
• Categorize items by type, purpose, or frequency of use, grouping similar items together for efficient organization and creating a logical flow within your storage spaces.
• Utilize color-coding systems to visually differentiate between categories, making it easier to locate items at a glance and adding a splash of color to your storage areas.

Utilizing Underutilized Spaces: Hidden Storage Gems

Uncover hidden storage opportunities in often overlooked areas, maximizing every inch of available space:

• Convert the space under beds into storage for out-of-season clothes, extra linens, or infrequently used items, utilizing rolling bins or drawer units for easy access.
• Utilize the area above cabinets or shelves for storing seasonal decorations, infrequently used appliances, or extra supplies, maximizing vertical space and keeping rarely used items out of the way.
• Install corner shelves or cabinets to maximize corner spaces, providing additional storage for small items, decorative accents, or frequently used items.

Regular Decluttering and Maintenance: A Habit for Sustainable Organization

Maintaining a clutter-free and organized home requires regular decluttering and maintenance:

• Schedule regular decluttering sessions to eliminate unused, broken, or unwanted items, reducing clutter and freeing up valuable storage space.
• Adopt a “one in, one out” rule to prevent the accumulation of unnecessary items, ensuring that every new addition has a designated place and doesn’t contribute to clutter.

• Regularly review and reorganize storage spaces to ensure that items remain categorized, labeled, and easily accessible, adapting your storage system as your needs and belongings evolve.

Customized Storage Solutions: Tailored to Your Needs

Design customized storage solutions that cater to your specific needs and preferences, maximizing functionality and personalization:

• Create DIY storage solutions using repurposed materials or customized designs to fit unique spaces or accommodate specific items.
• Invest in modular storage systems that can be adapted and reconfigured as your storage needs change, providing flexibility and adaptability over time.
• Consider incorporating built-in storage solutions during renovations or new constructions, maximizing space efficiency and creating a seamless integration with your home’s design.
• Consider an offsite self-storage unit at Pouch to help you get the edge on home organization. We have units ranging from 5’x5’ to 10‘x30’ to store any size collection.

Embracing Technology: Smart Storage Solutions

Leverage technology to enhance your storage solutions and streamline organization:

• Using digital labeling systems, such as QR codes or barcodes, can help you quickly identify and track items, especially in large or complex storage spaces.
• Employ smart storage devices, such as connected cabinets or drawers, to monitor inventory levels, track usage patterns, and receive alerts when items need replenishing.
• Consider incorporating smart home technology to control lighting, ventilation, or humidity levels in storage areas, ensuring optimal conditions for preserving delicate items or preventing damage.

Aesthetics and Harmony: Creating a Pleasing Environment

Storage solutions don’t have to be merely functional. They can also be aesthetic, contributing to a harmonious and inviting living environment:

• Choose storage containers, organizers, and furniture that complement your home’s décor and style, creating a cohesive and visually appealing space.
• Incorporate decorative elements, such as baskets, boxes, or trays, to add visual interest and personality to your storage areas.
• Color coordination and consistent design elements can create a sense of flow and visual harmony throughout your storage spaces.

Remember, home storage hacks are not merely about maximizing space; they are also about creating a functional, harmonious, and personalized living space that reflects your unique style and preferences. Embrace creativity, resourcefulness, and a touch of personal flair to transform your home into a haven of organization, efficiency, and tranquility. Most importantly, choose to set aside a little bit of time each day to incorporate routine de-cluttering and organization. By taking small steps and staying dedicated to a schedule, you will be able to attain and maintain an organized home life.

What You Need to Know About Storing Toiletries

Storing toiletries can be a tough task, especially when you have limited space. It’s important to know what types of toiletries you have and how to store them properly to keep them safe and easily accessible. As a customer of Pouch Self Storage, you want to ensure that your toiletries are in good condition and accessible whenever you need them. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best ways to store your toiletries for maximum space utilization and easy access.

Create a Toiletries Inventory List

The first step in storing toiletries is to create a list of all the items you have. This will help you get rid of anything that is expired or unused and make storage more manageable. By creating an inventory list, you can also determine which type of storage units you will need. If you have a lot of bulky items, you’ll likely need a larger unit. If you only have a few small items, a smaller unit may suffice.

Use Suction Cups and Shelf Dividers

Suction cups and shelf dividers are excellent organizers for bathroom toiletries. Suction cups are easy to install, don’t require drilling holes, and are great for holding small toiletries like toothbrushes, razors, and makeup brushes. On the other hand, shelf dividers are perfect for storing larger items like shampoos and conditioners. They help you keep your bathroom necessities within reach and upright, thereby reducing the chances of spilling.

Store Toiletries in Clear Containers

The advantage of clear containers is that they help you see what’s inside, look nice, and fit well with any decor style. You can use glass, acrylic, or plastic clear containers, but be sure that they’re airtight or have a secure lid that will prevent moisture from damaging your toiletries. Clear containers also make it easier to spot expiry dates and replace your products accordingly.

Label Everything

When you have multiple storage containers, labeling them is essential for easy access. You don’t want to waste time looking through every container to find what you need. Put labels on your storage bins, shelves, and baskets with specific items. For example, you could label a container ‘Hair Products’ with hair spray, gel, and serum, or ‘First Aid’ for band-aids and medicine.

Use the Back of the Door

If you’re short on space in your bathroom, using the back of the door can be a lifesaver. You can install an over-the-door storage rack for towels, washcloths, and robes. Door-mounted organizers are also great for keeping your toiletries within reach when you’re showering, shaving, or applying makeup. You can also install hooks or a rod to hang bathrobes or towels.

Visit Pouch Self Storage Today for All Your Storage Needs!

Storing toiletries is all about organization and getting creative with the space you have. If you’re dealing with clutter in your California home or business, we’re here to lend a hand. Our storage facilities are state-of-the-art and gated, perfect for all storage needs. No matter the size or duration, Pouch Self Storage has you covered. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance or have any questions.

How to Save Space in a Storage Unit

Whether you’re moving or reorganizing, a storage unit can be a very useful tool for keeping your belongings safe while you regroup. If you don’t organize it correctly, though, you can find that your storage unit fills up quickly. Unless you’re ready to upsize your unit, you’ll need some helpful tips for saving space in your storage unit.

• Be smart about renting the unit. Don’t just guess as to the size you need. Rather, have a clear idea of what you’re going to put into your storage unit before you decide on the size of the unit. Make a list of everything you need to store and you’ll not only know how much storage you’ll need but you’ll also have an inventory list to help you keep track of what you’re storing.
• Pack your things correctly before you put them in storage. Clean everything before you store it, washing clothes, wiping down furniture, and cleaning out appliances. Line the bottom of the storage unit with cardboard or wooden pallets. Choose the right containers for everything you’re packing, and know how to properly pack things.
  • Pack clothing, neatly folded, in plastic containers with clip-on lids.
  • Cover furniture and mattresses.
  • Don’t wrap things in plastic, unless it’s bubble wrap, or put tape directly on furniture.
  • Remove glass and fragile pieces from appliances or shelves before packing.
  • Choose climate controlled storage for appliances.
  • Pack electronics in original packaging when possible and take photos of wires before disconnecting them.
• Make stacks. Don’t discount the power of vertical storage! Starting at the bottom, put heavier items on the bottom of the storage unit and stack lighter items on top to get the most out of your unit.
• Disassemble furniture. Take bulky furniture pieces apart to maximize your space. With things that can’t be disassembled, like dressers, store smaller things inside the larger furniture.
• Use shelves to your advantage. Install shelves in your storage unit, either temporarily hanging them from the wall or using large freestanding metal or plastic shelves. Shelves make a good place to store things that are too large or oddly-shaped to fit into a box.
• Leave no space unfilled. Don’t leave any hollow spaces in your storage unit. Look for ways to fit things inside all of the empty spaces so that you can make the most of your space. One exception to the no empty space rule? Leave an aisle just large enough to walk through so that you can more easily access your things.

If you’re ready to store your things, choose Pouch Self Storage. We’ve been operating mini-storage facilities since 1979 and we’re committed to keeping our clients’ belongings safe. Founded by John Yelland, who hails from Australia, Pouch Self Storage is named in honor of the kangaroo’s pouch- nature’s safe and secure storage spot. We’re an industry leader in design, building, and maintenance of self-storage facilities, and we strive to give our occupants the most advanced security systems available. At our nine Southern California facilities, you’ll find state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems that allow our self-storage managers to monitor the opening and closing of every storage unit door, 24 hours a day. Currently, we’re abiding by CDC recommendations and implementing social distancing, but you can still reach us by calling (800) 378-4598 or contacting us through our website.

Quick Tips for Book Storage

Are you an avid reader with a personal library collection that has outgrown your apartment? Maybe you’ve inherited some rare first-edition prints that you can’t bring yourself to part with. Or perhaps you’re a book collector looking for a safe, secure place to store your most valuable pieces.

No matter your circumstances, self storage could be the solution you’re looking for. Before you store your books long-term, follow these tips to ensure they come out of storage looking as good as the day they went it.

Clean Your Books

It’s important to prepare anything you plan to put in storage. In the case of books, this means dusting them and letting the pages air out for a bit.

If it’s been a while since you read them, you may notice that a thick, grimy film of dust has gathered on the top edge of your books. Whatever you do, avoid using wet cleaning supplies that could damage the covers, dust jackets, or pages.

The brush attachment on your vacuum is probably the best method of cleaning your book collection. To help prevent debris from falling inside the binding, dust from the spine toward the opening of the book.

Take the time to flip through each book and look for any insect damage or moisture. Vacuum up any bugs or eggs and let damp pages dry out completely to prevent the books from deteriorating any further.

Catalog Your Collection

If you have so many books that you need to put some in storage, it’s wise to take inventory. Write down the titles on a piece of paper or create a spreadsheet for a digital record. This makes it easy to look up which books you kept and which ones you put in storage if you forget later on.

Select the Right Storage Containers

Plastic totes and acid-free storage boxes are your best options for storing books long-term. Plastic is beneficial because it keeps moisture out, and acid-free containers help prevent yellowing and fading of the pages over time. Whatever style of storage containers you choose, keep them small so they don’t get too heavy.

Pack Your Books Correctly

Group your collection by size and binding type (hardback or paperback) to make packing easier and more efficient. If you have any particularly fragile, valuable, or sentimental books, wrap them individually in packing paper or bubble wrap for extra protection.

There are three recommended ways to pack books for storage:

• Pack hardback books upright, as if the bottom of the box was a shelf in a bookcase. Two rows of books should sit spine to spine. If there’s a third row, separate them with crumpled packing paper so the pages don’t touch.
• Lay paperback books flat with packing paper between each one to prevent the covers from touching.
• Pack books with their spines face-down. Never pack books with the spines face-up because this could permanently damage the bindings, especially of hardback books.

Finish each box by filling any empty space with crumpled packing paper to prevent the books from shifting. To make it easier to find specific books in the future, label each box with its contents. Consider organizing your boxes by author or genre, and label them accordingly to avoid needing to list individual titles. You can write directly on the container or tape a printout to the outside.

Choose a Suitable Self Storage Facility

When storing books, climate control is the most important quality to look for in a self storage facility. Books are highly susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity. Climate-controlled storage prevents any extremes that could discolor or deteriorate your books.

Security is also essential to prevent break-ins. A storage facility with surveillance cameras, alarms, indoor access, perimeter fencing, and electronic gate entry provides the best level of protection for your prized book collection. Units locked with a secret digital code are also more secure than those that use a key.

Fill Your Storage Unit

After all your careful preparation, the final step is to load the storage unit properly. Start by laying down a plastic sheet or wooden pallet where you want to stack your boxes. Even in a climate-controlled setting, there’s still a risk of moisture accumulating on the floor. This simple precaution offers a little extra peace of mind.

Stack your boxes no higher than chest-height to reduce the risk of toppling over. Line the wall of the storage unit rather than filling a corner so you can see all the boxes easily if you need to access one later. If you’re putting other personal belongings in storage, keep the book boxes toward the bottom of each stack. They may be on the smaller side, but because they’re so heavy, it’s safer to set book boxes on or near the floor.

Enjoying a good book is one of life’s simple pleasures, and by following these quick tips for book storage, you can ensure your collection lives on for many years to come! To ask about reserving a storage unit for your books and other personal belongings, please contact Pouch Self Storage at (800) 378-4598. We have nine convenient locations around the Anaheim, CA area to better serve you.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Prepping Items for Storage [INFOGRAPHIC]

Determining the Right Storage Solution for Your Move

Packing Your Sofa for Storage

Tips for Preserving Family Documents

How to Maximize the Space in Your Home