Storing outdoor equipment in a self storage unit in London makes sense because it keeps it secure, dry, organised and in good condition ready for when you want to get it out and use it. Usually, outdoor equipment that is commonly stored in self storage is gear you might use in summer, but store in winter. However, businesses may use self storage for outdoor catering gear and other accessories that are usable all year round.
Of course, even with cheap self storage, there is a right and a wrong way to pack things away, even strong and sturdy items that are designed for the outdoors need preparation and protection to keep them in the best possible shape. If you’re thinking of using handy self storage to keep your outdoor gear safe and in great condition, read on for some handy tips:
Different Types Of Outdoor Equipment You Can Store In Affordable Self Storage
Garden Furniture
Garden furniture like benches, tables and parasols are a great choice for budget self storage over the winter months because it can get damaged in the garden from wind, rain and extreme temperatures. This is particularly important when garden furniture is so expensive, especially on-trend rattan versions that can be hundreds or even thousands of pounds. Of course, they can be stored in a garage or shed, but they aren’t protected from extreme temperatures in those places as they would be in climate controlled storage. They may also be prone to pests nesting in them when you store them in the garage or shed.
Garden Tools
Garden tools are expensive and protecting them in self storage when they are not in use is a great way to avoid them getting stolen. Affordable self storage involves a lot of security you would not see at home, including CCTV, security guards, gating, lock points and 24/7 reception. Lastly, weather protection is provided in self storage, which is important when many garden tools will easily break, rust or degrade with any weather damage like flooding.
Camping Gear
Camping gear is a bit like the summer version of Christmas items, in that we only use them once or twice a year on average, and yet they take up so much storage space. Self storage is so perfect for camping gear because you avoid having to fill the loft, garage or spare room with camping gear and you can instead use them for better purposes. Camping gear can also be expensive, and it’s worth storing it in affordable self storage to help protect it against environmental damage, theft and pests. In self storage you can be sure you’ll remove your camping gear in great condition ready for your next adventure (as long as you store it right, which we’ll discuss below!).
Garden Toys
Toys in the garden like slides, swings, sandpits and more, are expensive and prone to fading over winter. The metal parts may also rust and degrade over time, rendering the item unsafe come spring and summer again. As well as larger items, inflatables, balls, sports sets and other smaller items for the outdoors can also degrade over the colder months. Instead, why not store garden toys in your self storage unit so that it can be protected and remain in great condition. This way, when it warms up again the kids can enjoy safe and attractive garden toys in great condition without you having to shell out for replacement.
Business Equipment
Some business equipment like outdoor catering gear, festival equipment and trade show setups are only necessary at very certain times and don’t warrant taking up precious office or warehouse space. Self storage is a great way to not only store these items, but other business items all year round. If you’re looking for a way to move away from office use and instead become a virtual outfit, it is certainly worth considering.
How To Store Outdoor Equipment In A Self Storage Unit
However you choose to use your self storage unit for outdoor equipment storage, the most important thing is to prepare it properly. Every type of outdoor equipment should be put through the following steps to ensure it stays in great shape in the unit:
Clean It
Your outdoor equipment needs to be free from dust, debris, mud and any other dirt before it goes into self storage. This ensures no creepy crawlies find their way into the unit, ensures no damage is done to the items whilst they are stored, and it means when you get it out again it is in great condition.
Dry It
Outdoor items are commonly wet or damp because they are used outside. However, that moisture is a problem in self storage because it rots, it creates mould and it causes a nasty smell. Of all the things your outdoor gear has to be when it is in self storage, dry is the top priority because moisture is so damaging.
Package It
Your outdoor items need to be organised well, and then packaged properly. This benefits you because you will be able to organise your self storage unit well, potentially using the smallest possible space because everything is packed up well. It is also incredibly helpful when it comes to getting it out again, because it isn’t just tossed inside without thought. For larger items like tables and chairs, benches and large toys, it is worth adding protective covers and possibly some padding around parts that could get bashed in transit. Any glass or pot items, especially, have to be protected properly to avoid them getting dropped or shattered as they are transported.
Which Outdoor Gear Will You Store This Year?
Whether you’re saving garage space by storing camping gear, or you’re keeping your new Rattan egg chair in great shape by storing it – affordable self storage is a great idea. With the right preparation, too, you can ensure it all comes out in just as fantastic shape as it went in, saving you storage space at home or at work, and protecting these precious items from the elements.
