Category: Self Storage

One-bedroom apartments are great for economical-purposes and comfort, but they often don’t offer much storage space. Whether you’re downsizing or moving into your first apartment, you might find yourself struggling with too few storage options, leaving you with a choice between a cluttered home and your favorite belongings.

That’s where U-Lock Mini Storage comes in. We can help you reclaim your space without having to let go of what matters most to you. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right storage unit size for your needs.

Choosing the Right Storage Size for Your Apartment

At U-Lock Mini Storage, we offer a variety of storage unit sizes to fit your needs. To help you decide, here’s a look at some of our most popular options:

What Fits in a 5×10 Unit?

A 5×10 storage unit is about the size of a walk-in closet. It’s perfect for storing items from a small living space, like a mattress, bed frame, small appliances, and a few boxes of personal items.

How Big Is a 5×15 Storage Unit?

A 5×15 unit provides extra length for items like building supplies or sports equipment. It’s a great value, giving you more space than a 5×10 unit at a lower price. This size is ideal if you have slightly more to store and need a bit of extra room.

How Big Is a 10×10 Storage Unit?

Our 10×10 storage units offer extra space and convenience. With a larger roll-up door, you can easily move bulky items like appliances and pallets in and out. This size is popular for its additional width, allowing you to organize items on multiple shelves and manage your belongings more efficiently.

Everyone’s storage needs are unique and can change over time. Whether you need a small 5×5 locker for a few extra items or a larger unit for more storage, U-Lock Mini Storage has you covered.

Contact us today to find the ideal storage unit for your apartment and your budget. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect solution for your storage needs.

Paddle boarding is a great way to enjoy sunny days on the water, get a good workout, and soak in the beauty of nature. Veteran paddlers know that few things are more relaxing than basking in the sun on your board after a long paddle. The gentle rocking of the waves and the soothing sounds of water can feel like paradise.

However, after a fun day on the water, it’s important to store your paddle board properly to keep it in good condition.

How to Properly Store a Paddle Board

Daily paddle board storage can be as simple as leaning your board against a wall or placing it on an outdoor paddle board rack. This is convenient if you plan to go back out on the water the next day.

For long-term storage, especially during the off-season, it’s best to store your paddle board indoors such as in self storage. This is important if you live in an area with harsh or rainy winters.. Proper indoor storage such as a self storage facility helps preserve your board for years to come.

Tips for Storing Your Paddle Board

Where you store your paddle board depends on the space you have. You might have a spacious garage or live in a small apartment. Regardless of your situation, consider these factors:

• Sunlight: Long-term exposure to direct sunlight can damage your board. Store it indoors or away from UV rays to protect its exterior such as in a self storage facility.
• Moisture: Keep your board in a dry place to prevent mold and mildew.
• Temperature: Avoid extreme temperatures. Store your board in a place with moderate temperature to ensure its longevity.

Indoor Paddle Board Storage

Storing your paddle board indoors is often the best option. Here are some storage solutions:

• Paddle Board Storage Racks: Affordable and easy to use. Wall racks or free-standing racks with safety features like straps and padding keep your board safe.
• Paddle Board Storage Hooks: Great for limited wall space. Easy to install and often padded to prevent scratches.
• Decorative Storage: Use your board as a decoration by mounting it on a focal wall in your home.

Should You Clean Your Paddle Board Before Storing It?

Yes, always clean your paddle board before storing it. Rinse with fresh water to remove dirt, scrub with mild soap, and dry thoroughly to prevent mold.

Outdoor Paddle Board Storage

If indoor storage isn’t an option, you can store your paddle board outdoors, but follow these guidelines:

• Use a weather-resistant tarp: Protect your board from rain, snow, and moisture.
• Consider your climate: Outdoor storage is feasible in mild climates, but not in areas with harsh winters.

Storing a Paddle Board in a Storage Unit

If you don’t have indoor space, consider a storage unit. Ensure it’s climate-controlled to protect your board from extreme temperatures.

Finding a place to store your paddle board can be tricky, but don’t panic. Evaluate your available space and get creative. Hopefully, these tips help you find the best storage solution for your paddle board.

Feel free to share your paddle board storage tips in the comments to keep the conversation going!

What is Self-Storage?

Self storage is a convenient solution for managing extra belongings when space is limited. Whether you’re traveling, moving, or simply need extra space, renting a storage unit can be a practical option. Here’s how it works and what you need to know to get started.

Why Consider Self-Storage?

Imagine you’re about to embark on a year-long journey around the world, working remotely and living out of a suitcase. Where do you put your furniture and other belongings? Self storage offers a perfect solution. Here are some other common reasons people use self storage:

• Major life changes requiring temporary moves.
• Living in a small apartment with limited storage.
• Business owners needing additional inventory space.
• How Does Self-Storage Work?

Self-storage involves renting a storage unit at a facility near you. These units are typically leased on a month-to-month basis, allowing flexibility and easy access.

Advantages of Self-Storage

• Flexible rental agreements
• Affordable pricing
• Various unit sizes
• Convenient locations
• Secure and reliable facilities

Steps to Rent a Storage Unit

Choose a Storage Facility

• Research facilities in your area.
• Consider convenience, security features, and available unit sizes.
• Decide if you need climate-controlled storage or 24-hour access.
• Determine the Right Unit Size

Avoid wasting money on a unit that’s too large or dealing with the hassle of one that’s too small.

Use size guides and space estimators to find the perfect fit.

Decide on Online or In-Person Rental

• Online rentals save time and can be done anytime.
• In-person rentals allow you to see the unit before committing.

Complete Your Rental Agreement

• This contract outlines the terms and conditions of your lease.
• Make sure to review and understand all the terms before signing.

Make Payment

• Pay for the storage unit
• Set up future payments online or through auto-pay to avoid late fees.

Access Your Unit and Move In

• Follow the facility’s procedures to access your unit.
• Use a secure lock to keep your belongings safe.

Renting a self-storage unit can greatly simplify your life during transitions or when extra space is needed. Take your time to choose the right facility and unit size, and you’ll have a safe and convenient place for your belongings. If you have any questions, please contact us!

Happy storing!

As the school year wraps up, college students often face the challenge of moving out of dorms or rentals and finding a place for their belongings during summer break. Self storage facilities offer a practical solution to this problem. In this blog, we’ll explore how self storage can make summer break easier and more enjoyable for college students.

Why Self Storage is Important During Summer Break

When dorms close and leases end, students need a safe place to store their stuff. Self storage facilities provide a reliable option for keeping belongings secure while students travel, do internships, or go home for the summer. This means students can enjoy their break without worrying about their possessions.

Going into Summer Break with Ease

Moving out at the end of the school year can be stressful, especially with lots of items to pack and move. Self storage helps students manage this process by allowing them to store nonessential items temporarily. This reduces clutter and makes packing easier, ensuring that valuable items are safe and accessible throughout the summer.

Keep Your Belongings Safe

Self storage facilities are equipped with advanced security features like surveillance systems, access control systems, and on-site staff. This means students can enjoy their summer knowing their belongings are well-protected.

Save Money with Self Storage

Renting larger apartments or storage spaces can be expensive. Self storage offers an economical alternative. Monthly rental plans mean students pay only for the space they need, without long-term commitments or high fees. This also avoids the cost and hassle of transporting belongings back and forth between home and school.

Flexible Rental Plans to Suit Your Needs

Self storage facilities understand that students have different needs. Whether you need storage for a few weeks or the entire summer, there are rental plans to fit your schedule and budget. You can also choose the size of the storage unit that best fits your belongings, avoiding the cost of unused space.

Enjoy the Convenience of Self Storage

Moving out of dorms or rentals can be chaotic. Self storage makes this easier by providing a nearby place to store your items. This reduces the stress of transporting large or bulky items and eliminates the need for rushed moves. With convenient storage, students can focus on enjoying their break without logistical headaches. If you have any questions about self storage, please contact U-Lock Mini Storage and our team will be more than happy to help!

Winter is finally gone so it’s the perfect time to store your boots. Whether you want to store your ankle boots, knee-highs, or anything in between, taking care of your footwear is key to making them last. Here are some simple tips for storing your boots and keeping them in top condition until the next chilly season rolls around.

• Find the Right Spot: Store your boots in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, such as in a self storage unit. Leather boots, especially, need a temperature-controlled environment to avoid damage.
• Prep Before Storage: Clean your boots before putting them away for a while. This prevents dirt buildup and keeps them looking fresh.
• Mind the Moisture: Leather needs some moisture to stay supple, but too much can lead to mold. Cedar shoe trees are a handy way to maintain the right balance.
• Maximize Space: If you’re short on floor space, line your boots up neatly in rows. This not only saves space but also keeps your boots organized and easy to find.
• Hang Them Up: For boots you don’t wear often, consider hanging them using boot or pant hangers. This frees up floor space and prevents creasing.
• Use Over-the-Door Hangers: Shorter boots, especially kids’ boots, can be stored in over-the-door shoe hangers. Look for ones with deeper pockets to accommodate different boot sizes.
• Keep Their Shape: Tall boots tend to slouch when stored on the floor. Prevent this by stuffing them with items like magazines, wrapping paper rolls, or even empty wine bottles.
• Bins for Short Boots: Shorter boots can be neatly stored in bins on the closet floor. This keeps them organized and prevents clutter.

Taking a little extra care when storing your boots can go a long way in preserving their quality and longevity. With these tips, you can ensure that your favorite pairs are ready to step out in style when winter comes back around.

Keeping your storage space free from rodents and pests is really important. Sometimes, without realizing it, the way we pack things into storage can attract these unwanted visitors. It’s crucial to learn how to keep them out.

Instead of rushing to buy traps or other sorts of deterrent, try some simple methods first. Being prepared can make a big difference in keeping your stuff clean and safe.

Here are some tips to keep rats and pests out of your self storage:

• Pack things in sealed containers: Use plastic containers with tight lids, especially for things like clothes and fabrics. New cardboard boxes are better because they’re stronger and less likely to have holes where pests can get in. Avoid using old boxes from grocery stores or restaurants.
• Don’t store food: It might seem obvious, but many people make this mistake. Check everywhere for food crumbs, even in furniture and kitchen items. Also, avoid eating in your storage space as the smell can attract pests.
• Keep items off the ground: Elevate your belongings using shelves or pallets. This not only makes it harder for pests to get to your stuff but also protects it from moisture.
• Cover mattresses and furniture: Use plastic covers to prevent bed bugs and other pests from getting into mattresses. Make sure any upholstered furniture is also covered.
• Use natural repellents: Instead of using harmful chemicals, try things like cedar blocks, lavender oil, or peppermint oil to keep pests away.
• Visit your storage unit regularly: Check for signs of pests or damage every couple of months. If you spot any issues, let the management know right away.

When choosing a storage facility, make sure it’s well-maintained and has good pest control measures in place. Look for clean surroundings, regular pest control services, and well-kept doors and access areas.

Lastly, make sure your insurance policy covers damage from pests or rodents. Keeping a detailed inventory of your stored items can also help if you ever need to make a claim.

By following these tips, you can keep your storage space free from pests and rodents.

Embracing a well-thought-out approach to moving can transform the entire experience into a smooth and stress-free endeavor. Whether you’re relocating all your possessions to a new home or stowing away some items in a self storage unit, these expert packing and self storage tips are designed to streamline your moving day.

Packing Hacks

1. Organize Your Packing Supplies

Collect an ample supply of boxes, tape (in diverse colors), markers, labels, and protective packing materials (e.g., foam shipping noodles, bubble wrap, packing paper, or towels).

2. Uniform Box Sizes

Opt for uniformly sized boxes to facilitate easy stacking. Ensure the boxes are sturdy enough to support 25-30 pounds without overpacking.

3. Label and Number Strategically

List box contents on all sides, number each box, and seal with tape. Create a detailed inventory for quick reference.

4. Color Code by Room

Assign a specific color to each room and apply corresponding color codes to the boxes. Label room doors with matching colored stickers for easy identification.

5. Priority Items in Clear Bins

Pack essential items in clear plastic bins for easy access after the move. This may include paper towels, trash bags, box cutter, cleaning supplies, tools, kitchen utensils, cookware, power bars, and toilet paper.

6. “Open Me First” Boxes

Seal boxes that require immediate attention with red duct tape.

7. Wrap and Stack Delicately

Wrap dishes and glasses in paper and pack them in sturdy boxes. Stack fragile items on top.

8. Utilize Stretch Wrap

Group items together with stretch wrap and protect furniture from scratches. Keep a roll handy during the move.

9. Drawer Efficiency

Keep dresser drawers intact by covering them with stretch wrap. Remove drawers during the move and reinstall them later.

10. Strategic Storage

Stack heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top.

Self-Storage Tips

If you plan to utilize a self storage unit, consider these tips:

1. Optimal Unit Size

Rent the smallest storage unit that meets your needs, maximizing space usage.

2. Preparation is Key

Protect your belongings by covering the storage unit floor with a protective layer.

3. Guard Against Dampness

Elevate storage items on 2×4 boards or pallets to prevent contact with damp concrete floors.

4. Strategic Placement

Plan the layout of your storage space, keeping frequently accessed items near the front and leaving an aisle for easy navigation.

Self storage units can vary in cost due to a number of factors. These can include size, features and location. Location is also a primary reason for variations in cost. A storage unit in areas such as Burnaby will cost more than a storage unit in Mission, and self storage in a downtown area will be more than that on the outskirts.

Features such as temperature-control, indoor facilities, drive-up units, and hours of access will all affect pricing. Here are a five things to keep in mind when calculating the cost of a unit beyond location:

Storage Unit Size

Storage units typically range from 5’ x 5’ to 10’ x 30’.

• Smaller units are great for storing boxes, files, and holding the contents of a bachelor-sized apartment,
• Medium sized units are large enough to store the contents of a one or two bedroom apartment. They are also great for storing extra office furniture
• Larger units can store  the belongings of multi-bedroom homes. You can find a storage calculator at applestorage.com or contact any location to find what size unit would work best for you.

Generally speaking, the larger the unit the higher the price.

Temperature-Controlled Storage Units

Controlled storage units cost more than a non-heated storage. If temperature changes could affect the items you’re storing, paying extra for a temperature-controlled storage unit makes sense to protect those items. We recommend a temperature-controlled storage unit if you are storing:

• Electronics
• Glass items
• Valuable furniture or artwork
• Certain documents
• Medical Supplies

Drive-up and Indoor Storage Units

Drive up units are great for quick and easy access. They are on the ground floor and have a roll-up door so you can drive up and easily move items in and out of your vehicle. Drive up storage units are like a garage, great for small vehicles, sports equipment, and seasonal items. In contrast, indoor units can be temperature controlled so they are suited for antiques, electronics and other valuable items. Since the storage units are enclosed, they are also more resistant to pests, dust, humidity, and large temperature fluctuations.

Length of Stay

Most storage units are rented on a short term basis. However, if you know you’re going to need storage for the long term, special rates can be offered. Please feel free to contact us for details!

Miscellaneous Items and Insurance

Don’t forget to take into account costs that may come from extras that you need or insurance. Tenant’s insurance is important to protect belongings from unforeseen circumstances. There are different cost tiers depending on how much you want to insure your unit for. Also, there’s a small admin fee for renting a storage unit.

There are a million things on a new parent’s mind when the time finally comes to bring their baby home. As organized as you may think you were before the big day, there are so many unexpected challenges and changes that come up once you get into a routine at home. For example, maybe keeping your home clean and organized while caring for a newborn is more challenging than you had expected. Moreover, folding and organizing clothes may take up a longer time than anticipated. To help you keep your home organized, here are four tips you can use.

Keep daily used items close to the changing table

In the first few weeks, your baby grows so much. You may feel like they are constantly growing out of their clothes and onto the next size up. If your changing table is on your dresser, or close to it, keep those current sizes in the top drawer. If you change your baby in another room like the living room or your bedroom, keep a basket close by with all their current clothing and accessories for easy access. This way you won’t struggle to search for something that fits.

Use size organizers in the closet

Adding size labels to your closet is super helpful when organizing your baby’s clothing, especially after your baby shower, when you are overwhelmed with the amount of clothing your little one received. Additionally, hanging items are easier to see and grab rather than folded ones.

Most baby clothes already come on plastic hangers that are marked with their sizes, so all you need to do is hang them right up in the closet with the corresponding size organizer. Unfortunately, a lot of those cute clothes you got as gifts will end up unworn, with the tags still attached, if the size or season was wrong. Organizing clothing this way allows you to pinpoint which items they didn’t end up wearing so that you can make some returns if necessary. A trick for easy returns is to keep all of the gift receipts in the pockets or attached to the hanger.

These little plastic discs may not seem like much but can make a huge difference. They are inexpensive, fit most standard closet racks and can be found on most shopping websites.

Organize by item type

Keep socks with socks. Dedicate a section of the baby’s dresser to short-sleeve clothing and another to long-sleeve clothing. This way, If it’s a warm day, you’ll know exactly where to grab something with short sleeves; if it’s chilly out, you’ll easily be able to reach for the long-sleeve onesies. With a child that needs your attention, every second counts.

Keep a hamper close to your changing table

With a hamper within range, you can take the dirty clothes off the baby and toss them directly into it easily. As a new parent, your hands are always full – literally. You’ll realize it’s amazing what  you can accomplish with one hand while the other holds the baby. Keeping everything you need close by makes navigating through the day that much easier.

Use a storage unit

To keep your home organized and clean, you can first declutter and remove all the unnecessary items from your home and move them into a storage unit. You can rent a storage unit for the long-term and access items in the storage unit whenever you need them.

If you have a lot of stuff that needs to be stored, you can choose a storage unit size that’s a bit bigger, such as a 5×10 storage unit. If you only have a few items to store, go with a closet-sized storage unit, such as a 5×5 storage unit.
At U-Lock Mini Storage, we have storage facilities across Greater Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Our facilities include self storage Victoria, self storage Parksville, self storage Nanaimo, self storage Burnaby, self storage White Rock and Surrey, and self storage Chilliwack. Contact us if you have any questions!

Is your clothes closet as clean, organized and streamlined as you’d like it to be? Do you find yourself repeatedly wearing only two or three items from your overstuffed closet? If you are like most people, your closet contains things that no longer fit or items you no longer like to wear. When your closet is disorganized it makes finding what you actually like to wear a frustrating task. As seasons change, it’s a great time to learn how to clean a closet and organize your storage space from top to bottom!

So set aside a long afternoon, grab the following supplies, put on your tunes and let’s get started!

1. Take out everything from your closet first

It might seem like a drastic measure, but the best way to do the job right and be happy with the end result is to actually remove everything from the closet. If it’s been a while since you’ve cleaned your closet, you’ll want to wear a dust mask to avoid headaches or allergies. It’s amazing how much dust accumulates in a closet!

2. Donate your clothes

Don’t second guess yourself – remove everything you haven’t worn in the past year and take it to the car to be dropped off the next day at your favorite charity. While there is a possibility you’ll give away something you wish you had down the road, in the long run it will have been worth it. Cleaning out a closet will make future decisions much easier. Chaotic closets end up costing us money! Being more organized will help you know what you actually need to buy going forward and you’ll make less clothing mistakes.

3. Rent a storage unit

If you have some outfits that you LOVE but only wear seldomly for special occasions, you can rent a self storage for either short-term or long-term to store these outfits. There are a variety of storage unit sizes for a person to choose from. If you’re looking to store a couple of clothing items, you can go with a 5×5 storage unit which is approximately the size of a walk-in closet.

At U-Lock Mini Storage, we offer storage units across Greater Vancouver and Greater Vancouver Island. We offer self storage Burnaby, self storage South Surrey and White Rock, self storage Chilliwack, self storage Nanaimo, self storage Parksville, and self storage Victoria. Book a storage unit today! Contact us if you have any questions.

4. Hang up the clothes you actually wear

Only hang up clothes you wear so that your closet is occupied with outfits that you actually wear. Doing this helps you deter hoarding outfits that you rarely wear and making a huge mess in your closet! If you have some outfits that you’re on the fence about whether you’ll wear them on the regular, we’d recommend storing these items in a storage unit to avoid clustering your closet with outfits that you seldomly wear.