• Why Should You Use Self-Storage During a Home Renovation?

    Self Storage Units in Capitola, CA

    Renovating your home can be a thrilling experience as you create a space that reflects your personal style and meets your functional needs. Have you thought about how you’ll manage your belongings during the project? Many Capitola, CA, homeowners find that storage units for home use are the way to go.

    Benefits of Self-Storage During a Home Renovation

    The primary focus during a renovation is on designing and executing the project. However, you must also give attention to safeguarding your personal belongings. Consider several compelling reasons to use a self-storage facility in Capitola, CA, until the project is complete:

    • Clear the clutter: Renovation work requires space to store materials and operate tools. If your belongings are in the way, this may limit the workspace and hamper the renovation crew’s efficiency. Self-storage units allow you to clear the clutter and create a more conducive work environment.
    • Protect your belongings from dust and debris: Remodeling generates significant dust and construction debris. If allowed to spread throughout your home, these particles may damage sensitive belongings. By moving electronics and furnishings to a self-storage unit, you safeguard them from dusty conditions and maintain their original condition and cleanliness.
    • Avoid accidental damage: While construction crews are careful, accidents can still happen. Tools or materials may fall onto your furniture, and paint may splatter your decorations. Transferring your belongings to a secure storage unit reduces the risk of such incidents.
    • Secure your belongings: Self-storage units offer a secure space to keep your possessions while your home is under construction. These facilities often feature advanced security measures like surveillance cameras, coded access gates, and individual unit alarms. Such a robust security framework protects your items from unauthorized access.
    • Save money on temporary living expenses: Extensive home renovations may require you to relocate temporarily, adding significantly to the total project cost. An affordable self-storage unit lets you store your belongings safely and reduces your temporary living expenses by staying with friends or family.
    • Retain easy access: Choosing a self-storage facility with gate access 365 days a year ensures easy access to your items if you need to retrieve something before the renovation is complete.
    • Remain prepared for project delays: Sometimes, plans change, or unforeseen problems cause delays. In such cases, self-storage units offer a secure space to keep your items until your home is ready.
    • Enjoy peace of mind: Knowing your possessions are safely and securely tucked away lets you focus on the renovation. This peace of mind greatly enhances your home remodeling experience.

    Storage Unit Organization Tips

    Staying organized is the key to reaping the full benefits of a self-storage unit during a home renovation. Here are some insightful tips to help you organize your storage space:

    • Label everything: Label all boxes and containers with detailed descriptions of their contents. You may also want to use a color-coding system for different categories.
    • Create an inventory: Make a record of all your stored items, either on paper or in a mobile app, to help you manage your belongings effectively.
    • Utilize vertical space: Maximizing the vertical space in your storage unit drastically increases capacity. This may involve using sturdy shelving or stackable plastic containers.
    • Store like items together: Grouping similar belongings in the unit simplifies retrieval. For instance, all kitchenware should be stored in one section, while living room items go in another.
    • Prioritize accessibility: Place frequently used items near the front of the unit for easy access. Belongings you’re unlikely to need before your renovation project is complete can be stored further back.
    • Distribute weight properly: When stacking boxes, place the heavier ones at the bottom to maintain stability and prevent toppling.
    • Disassemble large items: Large furniture takes up a lot of space. If possible, disassemble desks, beds, and other items to make them easier to store.
    • Use protective covers: Guard your belongings against potential damage during transport with covers, plastic wrap, or moving blankets. This is especially useful for furniture, artwork, and other delicate items.
    • Leave an aisle for easy movement: Line the back and sides of your storage unit, retaining a passageway down the center. This allows access to the items stored in the back if you need to retrieve them.

    Your Trusted Partner for Home Renovation Self-Storage in Capitola, CA

    When renovating your home, choosing the right storage facility makes a big difference. JD Mini Storage has been offering safe and affordable storage solutions in Capitola, CA, for over 35 years.

    Our 10-foot-tall, ground-level storage units and advanced security measures ensure your belongings are safe and easily accessible. The gate to our self-storage facility is open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, 365 days a year, and our dedicated managers are on-site Monday through Saturday to assist with your storage needs. Contact us today at 831-440-7325 for storage unit availability, pricing, and answers to any questions you have.

  • Get Your Home Roommate-Ready

    Living on your own can be lonely and expensive, but a roommate can ease the burden on both fronts. However, there might also be drawbacks to living with a roommate if you’re not equally up for the task, which is why communication is important. Before you decide to move in with someone or let someone share your space, make sure you know the person well enough. You might also consider using a storage unit in Capitola, CA to free up some space so clutter doesn’t build up and stress you out. Everyone has their own boundaries, and you shouldn’t be afraid to make yours clear from the very beginning.

    Know Your Roommate

    Students Self Storage in Capitola, CAHaving a roommate can be a blast, especially if you’re living with someone whom you’ve been good friends with for a long time. This isn’t always the case though, and you might not know your roommate very well before moving in. If you’re looking for a roommate to make your living space more affordable, do your best to get to know your potential options before making anything official. Learn about the person’s preferences, allergies, and any other pertinent information that might come up when you share a living space.

    Create Space

    When you invite another person to live with you in your home, you have to be ready to deal with their belongings as well. You can free up some space and make your home a little more comfortable by using a storage unit. This is even more helpful if you don’t have an attic, basement, or garage where you can store the things you don’t use so often. Storage space will help cut down on clutter and the stress that comes with it, making your relationship with your roommate less challenging and more harmonious.

    Identify Your Boundaries

    Some people are relatively open, while others prefer their privacy and personal space. Talk to your potential roommate before moving in and make your boundaries clear from the start. Then you can organize the house in a way that meets both of your needs.

  • The Right Way to Store an Artificial Tree

    When the holiday season ends and it’s time to take down the decorations, remember to take care of them and store them properly so you can use them again and again over the years. If you don’t have storage options in Capitola, CA inside your house, you can always use a storage unit. Watch this video and learn about the right way to store an artificial tree.

    Artificial trees don’t require the same amount of care as live trees, and they can last for years if you care for them the right way. Don’t store your fake tree in its original box, as it can break down over time and let moisture, dust, and bugs inside. If you use a plastic container, make sure you use one that seals tightly so the air stays out. You can also use a storage bag, and many of these bags have wheels attached.

  • Benefits of Renting a Storage Unit For Your Business

    Storage rental in Capitola, CA can help a family start using their garage and closets again, and college storage is convenient for students who study far from home. Commercial storage rental can be a lifesaver for your business as well. If your business is growing and your demand for inventory increases, you’ll need somewhere to put it. Working from home is nice until your work starts to take over your home, but having a place to store your tools can take the burden off your family. Read on for signs that your business could benefit from renting a storage unit.

    You’re running out of room for your inventory.

    Storage Unit for Business in Capitola, CAMany businesses work hard over the span of years or decades to get to where they are now, but sometimes businesses explode overnight. If you’re suddenly hit with a huge demand for your products, you need somewhere to store your inventory. Your office space might not be huge, especially if you’re a young company, but a storage unit can clear up some room. You can keep your inventory in a storage space until you need it, so you won’t have to trip over it when you walk back to your desk from the water cooler.

    You work from home.

    Working from home has its advantages, but it has drawbacks as well. If your apartment doubles as your home office, you’ll probably have even less room to store your inventory, equipment, and necessary business supplies. This is a bigger problem if you live with other people. Not only do you have to worry about clutter getting in the way, but you also must protect your business equipment from damage. Consider turning your spare room into a legitimate home office and putting its contents in a storage unit.

    You need a place for your tools.

    If you work in an industry like plumbing or home improvement, you can be your own boss without having headquarters to work out of. You may not have too much paperwork or office equipment to worry about, but a storage unit can house your tools, so you don’t need to keep them at home.

  • Learn How You Can Access Your Storage Unit at JD Mini Storage

    If you decide that renting a storage unit in Capitola, CA could be the right choice for you, make sure you work with a storage facility that allows you to access your things when you need them. At JD Mini Storage, we make it as easy as possible for you to get to the belongings that you leave with us. Some people like to come back to their storage units on a monthly, weekly, or even daily basis—if that sounds like you, then you should know exactly how to get to your unit. Read on and learn how you can access your storage units at JD Mini Storage.

    No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, you should have no problem accessing your storage unit when you rent at JD Mini Storage. All our units are on the ground floor, and they are all 10 feet high. Getting into our facility requires keypad access. As long as you come by between 7:00 in the morning and 7:00 in the evening, you should have no problems getting to your belongings. We keep these hours open every single day of the year, so you’ll never be kept away from your things.

    Entrance Gate of JD Mini Storage in Capitola, CA

  • Packing and Storing Frames and Mirrors

    If you are preparing to place artwork or mirrors in a storage unit near Santa Cruz, CA, it is important to pack your items carefully. In order to pack your picture frames, you will need brown packing paper, mirror boxes, a roll of packing tape, and a marker. When you are packing your mirrors or picture frames, you can start by folding your packing paper around your item. With the paper carefully folded, you can tape your frame securely. For a look at how to store frames and mirrors, watch this video.

    A company offering portable storage units will be able to provide you with handy tips on how to pack, move, and store your belongings. With services from a top-rated storage rental company, you can ensure that your personal items are fully secured when they are not in use.

  • 8 Fun Facts About Storage

    Fun Facts on Self Storage in Capitola, CA
    Have you ever wondered about the origins of the self-storage industry or the fascinating usage trends surrounding it? With these eight fun facts about self-storage, you’ll know a little more about who uses this service and why.

    1. The concept of self-storage dates way back.

    The earliest version of self-storage began in the 1850s. The British banking industry invented the concept of securely storing valuables for clients taking an extended leave of absence. Fast forward 50 years, and the first reinforced steel and concrete warehouse for storing household goods appeared in Los Angeles, CA, in 1906.

    However, the industry as we know it today was born in Fort Lauderdale, FL, in 1958. That’s when the idea of a privately rented storage space was first put to the test. The 1960s fostered further industry growth, propelling self-storage from a fledgling concept to a recognized commercial service.

    2. Americans store more stuff than anyone else.

    Americans lead the world in the use of self-storage. There are an estimated 50,000 self-storage facilities in the United States and more than 23 million individual storage units. That’s one for every 14 Americans. Good thing, too, because 11 million US households currently rent a unit.

    In terms of sheer volume, America has approximately 2.3 billion square feet of self-storage space, which is over 82 square miles. To put this in perspective, that’s like filling almost four Manhattan Islands solely with storage units!

    3. Homeowners and apartment dwellers use self-storage at different rates.

    While most storage unit renters (68 percent) live in single-family homes, a significant number (27 percent) reside in apartments. This indicates that both homeowners and apartment dwellers value the extra space storage units provide. Intriguingly, two-thirds of storage space renters already have access to a garage, attic, or basement, indicating the ever-growing need for additional storage.

    4. Long-term storage units are more common than short-term rentals.

    The popularity of self-storage has been steadily increasing, with more and more renters committing to long-term leases. Surveys indicate that many people who initially intended on a short-term rental ended up leasing for over a year. This suggests a shift in consumer opinions, viewing self-storage as an extended convenience rather than a temporary solution.

    5. The demand for self-storage isn’t limited to metropolitan areas.

    Contrary to popular belief, some of the busiest self-storage facilities aren’t located within bustling city centers. For instance, Wichita, KS, has a substantial demand for storage units owing to its active air force base. Military personnel and contractors needing a secure place for their belongings while on assignment frequently utilize self-storage units.

    6.  Storage units are used for diverse reasons.

    Self-storage is flexible and versatile, meeting an array of storage needs. Individuals and families rent units for various reasons, including moving and downsizing, and storing anything from extra clothes and books to heirloom furniture and musical instruments. Business owners also often utilize these spaces to stock excess inventory or secure important documents, transforming the humble storage unit into a convenient, on-demand warehouse.

    7. Security and self-storage go hand-in-hand.

    Secure self-storage has become a top priority for those who use this service. Luckily, modern storage facilities offer advanced security measures, including surveillance cameras, individual unit alarms, and keypad access. Having a manager on-site is another way to ensure your belongings are well-protected.

    8.  Self-storage is on the rise.

    The self-storage industry shows no signs of slowing down. With evolving consumer lifestyles and space becoming a luxury in urban areas, self-storage has proven to be an indispensable solution. It’s even considered recession-resistant because of its continued success over the past several decades. The future promises continued innovation and growth in this sector, so enjoy the ride!

    Choose JD Mini Storage for Self-Storage in Capitola, CA

    When considering a self-storage facility, you want a trusted provider that offers excellent customer service and secure self-storage solutions. JD Mini Storage has been serving the Capitola, CA, community for over 35 years. We provide a safe, affordable way to store your belongings, whether you’re moving, renovating, spring cleaning, or heading off to school.

    All our units are 10 feet tall and located at ground level for your convenience. We pride ourselves on our advanced security features and convenient gate access from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, 365 days a year. With no minimum rental period and prorated options after the first month, JD Mini Storage provides flexible, customer-friendly billing and payment options. For a secure self-storage solution that suits your needs, contact us at 831-440-7325 to learn about storage unit availability and pricing. We’re also happy to answer any questions you have.

  • Safety Tips for Lifting Boxes and Heavy Objects

    You’ve found a storage unit in Capitola, CA and you’ve packed up all the belongings you plan to leave there, but now you have to figure out how to transport them. It’s easy to hurt yourself if you try lifting heavy things without the right techniques, and you might even lose time at work. Watch this video for safety tips for lifting boxes and heavy objects.

    Don’t try to lift something that’s too heavy for you to handle by yourself. Try to lift one corner of the object to determine how heavy it is, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Look for handles or another good place to grip before lifting. Standing next to the object, bend your knees and spread your feet to about shoulder width. Keep your back straight as you slowly lift the object, and keep it close to your torso.

  • Common Pests Found in Storage Units

    When you rent a storage unit, you will trust your storage rental facility to protect and preserve your stuff when it is under their care. Before you choose a storage facility, it is a good idea to ask about any pest prevention methods that they have in place. A quality storage rental facility will have methods in place that are designed to keep rodents, insects, and other unwanted pests away. Let’s take a closer look at some common pests that are found in storage units, and how they can be prevented. Preventing Pest in Storage Units in Capitola, CA

    Rodents

    Rodents are among the most notorious pests that can invade a storage unit. Rats and mice like to build their nests in the dark, out-of-the-way spaces that are located throughout an untouched storage unit. If a storage facility has signs of droppings or unused nesting materials, this may indicate a rodent problem. By implementing rodent exclusion methods, a properly equipped storage unit facility will be able to keep these nasty pests away.

    Cockroaches

    Cockroaches are familiar with pests that can be found in storage units around the world. When cockroaches invade a storage facility, they can bring nasty diseases and pathogens, such as salmonella, E. coli, and more. To keep cockroaches away, it may be necessary to treat the interior and exterior surfaces of a storage unit with a special repellant. Traps and other physical methods can also be used to control and eliminate a cockroach population.

    Bed Bugs

    Bed bug infestations are on the rise around the country, and storage units are not immune to these dreaded insects. A bed bug colony can make its home on mattresses, furnishings, and in any other carbon-based materials. In the unfortunate event that a bed bug infestation breaks out in a storage facility, it may be necessary to treat each individual unit. If you have concerns about pests and your stored items, your storage rental company will be happy to answer your questions.

  • Storage Tips For Cleaning Up After Christmas

    If you’re the type of person who likes to go all out during the holidays, you’ll probably have quite a bit of cleaning up to do when the season ends. Since you won’t be needing your holiday decorations until next year, a storage unit rental in Capitola, CA can be a safe way to store your seasonal decor until you need it again. A storage unit rental will keep your things safe and protected, but you still need to pack everything properly. Be extra careful with your fragile ornaments and decorative lights, and use a bag or a box for your tree. Here are some storage tips to know when you’re cleaning up after Christmas.

    Use a Storage Unit Storage Tips for Christmas in Capitola, CA

    Not all homes come with an ample amount of storage space, but a storage unit can solve the problem. Christmas only comes once a year, so there’s no real reason to keep your wreaths, trees, lights, and other decorations in your house during the rest of it. Instead, you can keep your festive decorations safe in your storage rental unit. Even though you’ll still have access to everything in your storage unit throughout the year, you probably won’t need to check up on your Christmas decorations for a long time.

    Be Careful with Ornaments and Lights

    Using your holiday ornaments and lights responsibly and storing them properly will help them last year after year, but you must be careful. Ornaments and lights are both easy to break if you don’t pack them up the right way before bringing them to the storage unit. Try wrapping fragile Christmas ornaments in newspaper or bubble wrap to give them some extra cushioning. You can also fill in any extra space in the box with packing peanuts, so your things don’t slide around.

    Get a Bag for Your Tree

    Natural trees should be thrown out after the holiday, but artificial trees can be preserved for years. Instead of using the box, the tree came in, buy a bag specifically designed for storing Christmas trees to avoid moisture and pests.

  • Renting a Storage Unit to Remove Clutter

    Some people like to have all the space they can afford, while others are more comfortable with a smaller living space. The drawback to smaller homes is that they get filled up with clutter more easily. If you love your small house but the clutter is getting hard to control, you might consider working with a storage rental company in Capitola, CA. You’ll have multiple storage options to choose from, and you can clear up your clutter without having to get rid of anything permanently. If you’re tired of all the clutter, read on and see how renting a storage unit can help.

    Clutter can be an annoyance, and for some people, it may be a source of anxiety. If you want to take back some of the space in your home but you don’t want to give your stuff away, then a storage unit may be the answer. You can take the things you don’t need on a regular basis to the storage rental unit and leave them there until you do need them again. This really comes in handy around the holidays, when you have seasonal decorations that only go up for a few weeks.

    Things for Christmas decoration in Capitola, CA

  • Dont’s for Moving Your Belonging into Storage

    You might be excited to get your things into your own storage unit in Capitola, CA so you can free up some space around the house, but don’t rush into the process and make thoughtless mistakes. People often put themselves at risk for injury, because they use improper lifting techniques that can hurt their backs. It’s also a good idea to research the storage rental company and make sure they’re right for you. Here’s more on what not to do so that you don’t make any common mistakes.

    Don’t Use the Wrong Moving Techniques Techniques to Lift heavy Objects in Capitola

    When it comes to the actual process of putting your things into your storage unit, you should know how to pack and lift your belongings correctly. It’s much easier to transport your belongings when they’re packed the right way, as they won’t shift around in their boxes or give you problems when you’re hauling stuff to and from the moving truck. Use boxes that were designed for moving, not old and broken boxes from your local grocery store. When you move a heavy piece of furniture, have a friend help you. If you can take on the load yourself, remember to keep your back straight and lift with your legs.

    Don’t Neglect to Research Your Storage Rental Company

    A storage unit could be exactly what you’re looking for, but the company you work with can make a big difference in your experience. There’s no reason to work with a company that you don’t trust. A small amount of research can go a long way, and simply checking out a storage rental company’s website can teach you a lot about them. Look at your options, and don’t work with a business that doesn’t make you comfortable.

    Don’t Stack Your Boxes Too Tall

    Your belongings should be just the way you left them when you come back to your storage unit. If you stack your boxes too high, they could crumble over time and end up falling over and destroying some of your stuff. Consider what’s in your boxes, and keep the stacking to a reasonable height.

  • JD Mini Storage: The Smart Choice for All Your Storage Needs

    Not all storage options in Capitola are the same. JD Mini Storage has distinguished itself during our three-plus decades of serving the community. When you choose our storage rental company, you’ll get superior customer service, and customized billing and payment options to suit your needs. Plus, there is no minimum stay required. We make it easy to save on your temporary storage needs. After your first month, we’ll give you a prorated refund if you move out before the end of the next month or any subsequent months.

    Our storage rentals are all ground units that are 10 feet tall, and are available in a range of sizes. You can access your unit 365 days per year, from seven in the morning to seven at night, every day. We secure your possessions with an electronic keypad access system, and our managers live onsite for your peace of mind. When you select your new storage rental, be sure to ask about our discounts for prepaying for long-term storage.

    Self-Storage Units in Capitola

  • Self-Storage Tips for College Students Heading Home for the Holidays

    College campuses can get pretty dull over long breaks. Most students prefer to go home for the holidays, but this can create some logistical challenges. College storage is a smart solution for students who prefer not to haul their belongings home for the winter break. If you’ll be switching dorm rooms after the break, you’re in off-campus housing and plan to sublet, or your dorm is being renovated over the break, consider renting a storage unit in Capitola.

    Sell some books.

    There are likely a few books you’ll keep from this past semester’s classes, but you probably don’t need to lug all of those heavy books into your storage rental. Plus, selling them back to the campus bookstore or to an online textbook hub will give you a little extra cash for books for the next semester.

    Store electronics carefully. Self-Storage Tips for College Students in Capitola, CA

    College storage units are an excellent way to keep your expensive electronics safe over the winter break. Even if you don’t plan to switch dorm rooms or sublet your off-campus apartment, it’s worth taking the extra precaution of storing electronics at a secure, off-campus location. Get some bubble wrap for your computer, monitor, printer, and music system to protect these items. Place these, along with all electrical cords, into a sturdy plastic bin before storing it.

    Keep clothes safe from moisture.

    Always launder your clothes before storing them. Make sure they are completely dry, and then wrap each item in acid-free tissue paper. Stack the clothing in plastic storage bins. You could add some mothballs to keep insects away, but some people prefer all-natural cedar.

    Clean out your mini-fridge.

    If you’re renting a mini-fridge with a two-semester rental agreement, it will need to be stored over the winter holidays. Unplug and defrost the fridge, and scrub it thoroughly. Remember to scrub the microwave, if you have a combination fridge/microwave unit. Slip a tray or towel underneath the entire unit, and leave the door open overnight. The next day, dump out any accumulated water underneath, and wipe down the unit to ensure it’s dry. Use heavy-duty tape to stick the coiled cord on the back of the unit. When you get the fridge to the storage unit, store it with the door open to allow air to circulate.

  • How to Pack Your Dishes, Glasses, and Stemware for Storage

    Temporary storage is a great solution for individuals who are downsizing or deploying overseas. After you find a storage rental company in Capitola, be sure to assemble the right sort of packing supplies for your items. You’ll need a dish box or two for breakable possessions, along with a few cell dividers and plenty of large sheets of packing paper.

    When you watch this featured video, you’ll see demonstrations of the best ways to pack your fragile items for self-storage. First, watch as this packing expert wraps three plates together, separated by a sleeve of packing paper. The same technique can be used for bowls. Wrap all of your glasses and mugs individually. For your stemware, use a folded, long piece of packing paper for the stem, and then another piece to wrap the entire item.

  • Advice for Moving Your Furniture into a Storage Unit

    The first step to making sure your furniture is well-preserved while in storage is to select a reputable storage rental company near Capitola. It should have clean, leak-free storage units, as water damage can be disastrous for furniture. After you rent the right size of storage space for your furniture, lay some thick plastic sheeting on the floor of the unit, and then start loading up the moving truck.

    Clean and repair the furniture.

    Slide each piece away from the wall, and wipe it down thoroughly. There could be mildew in areas where you don’t often clean, and one moldy piece of furniture in a storage rental will contaminate the rest of it. If any of your furniture needs repairs, this is a good time to take care of it.

    Take your furniture apart.

    There’s no point in throwing out your back and testing the goodwill of your friends by trying to move a huge credenza as is. Instead, take off everything that can be removed. Slide out drawers and take out shelves. On some pieces, you might even be able to remove doors and legs. Disassembling your furniture lightens the load, and it might be easier to grip while moving it. Be sure to label each disassembled piece so you can put it back together again later. You can use adhesive labels for this. Put nuts, bolts, and screws into a plastic bag, and tape the bag to the furniture. Use a separate bag for each piece of furniture.

    Protect your furniture in transit. Moving Furniture Into Storage Unit in Capitola, CA

    It’s inevitable that furniture will shift around inside a moving van. Wrap each item with padding, such as blankets. Do not stack furniture inside the moving van—if it topples over, it will sustain damage, and it will likely damage other pieces of furniture.

    Load the storage unit.

    When you arrive at your self-storage unit, position the largest, heaviest pieces of furniture toward the back. As you bring pieces in, try to leave space for one or two walking paths. This way, you’ll be able to access the items in the back of the unit if you’ve stored lighter boxes of possessions on top of the furniture.

  • Make More Space by Renting a Storage Unit

    The opportunity to spend some time with out-of-town relatives is one of the wonderful parts of the holiday season. Make the most of your time with your houseguests by eliminating the possibility of cramped conditions. There are affordable storage options available in Capitola, CA, and you can choose from self-storage rentals in a range of sizes to suit your needs .

    If your home is relatively roomy and uncluttered, rent a small self-storage unit. Or perhaps you’ve been using your guest bedroom as a catchall place to put random items. Don’t let your houseguest trip over odds and ends—make him or her feel welcome by clearing out the clutter and stowing it away in temporary storage. Consider how your guest plans to arrive at your home. If he or she is driving, it would be courteous to offer space in your garage for your guest’s car. This means it’s time to gather together your yard tools, bikes, and miscellaneous junk, and store them safely until your houseguest leaves.

    Self-Storage Unit in Capitola, CA

  • Top Ways to Streamline the Moving Process

    No matter what distance you’re traveling during your move, there are a few tricks you can use to make the process easier. First, give yourself more time to plan your move than you think you’ll need. Next, explore your storage options in Capitola, CA, deal with unnecessary clutter, and stock up on packing and moving supplies.

    Reserving a Self-Storage Rental Packing Materials For Moving in Capitola, CA

    A disorganized move is stressful and inefficient. An effective way to keep your family organized is to rent a temporary storage unit, especially if you’re a military family. Military families move often, and they don’t necessarily take all of their belongings with them each time they move. If you or your spouse is headed for an overseas deployment, start checking out the rates for self-storage. Talking to a storage rental company is also a smart idea if you’re a college student. You might not want to move all of the contents of your dorm room back home each summer. Rent a storage unit near your campus to streamline your move when the new school year starts.

    Dealing with Clutter

    The day of the move is the wrong time to deal with clutter. As soon as you decide to move, start sorting through your possessions. Get rid of items that you can discard, recycle, sell, or give away. Inevitably, there will be some items with sentimental value that you might not need any longer. If you can’t decide what to do with these items, you can put them into storage, and deal with them after you’ve settled into your new home.

    Stocking up on Moving Supplies

    It’s a waste of time to run out to the store for packing supplies in the middle of your move. Stock up on more supplies than you think you’ll need. Get plenty of:

    • Boxes of all sizes
    • Tape
    • Scissors
    • Markers
    • Packing peanuts

    Delegating Tasks

    Your move will go smoothly if you delegate tasks to each family member. For example, adults and older children can wrap and pack the breakable items. Younger kids can help by packing their own clothes and stuffed animals into plastic bins. When everyone pitches in, the move will go faster than you think.

  • The Right Way to Pack with Bubble Wrap®

    If you have ever needed to move or ship a fragile item, you probably used bubble wrap to ensure it arrived unscathed. This common packing material is loved for its unique structure—flat on one side with small, air-filled bubbles on the other, resulting in an insulating and cushioning material that protects goods during transit.

    Bubble Wrap has an interesting origin story. Engineers invented this material in 1957, intending it as a new form of wallpaper. When that idea didn’t take off, they considered marketing it as greenhouse insulation. However, in the late 1960s, IBM recognized the true potential of bubble wrap and started shipping its computers in this protective packaging material.

    Today, the bubble wrap you know and love is indispensable for packing, shipping, and storing fragile items. Its wide availability, affordability, and versatility make bubble wrap a staple in homes, businesses, and storage facilities. If you need a refresher on how to pack with bubble wrap, you’ve come to the right place.

    Bubble Wrap Packing in Capitola, CA

    When to Use Bubble Wrap

    Bubble wrap is ideal for protecting items prone to breakage, scratching, or damage, including:

    • Plates and bowls: China and ceramics can easily chip or crack. Wrapping each piece individually prevents such damage.
    • Glasses and stemware: These delicate items benefit from a cushioning wrap to protect their fragile rims, bases, and stems.
    • Vases: Whether made from ceramic, porcelain, or glass, bubble wrap protects vases from impacts.
    • Electronics: Laptops, televisions, cell phones, and other gadgets often require extra protection to prevent damage during transport.
    • Glass shelves and tabletops: These thin, delicate surfaces scratch easily. Bubble wrap provides a protective barrier.
    • Mirrors, paintings, and picture frames: To prevent these items from cracking, protect them with bubble wrap while moving.
    • Furniture: Cover vulnerable protruding parts and glass elements with bubble wrap.
    • Other fragile items: From collectibles to home decorations, any valuable or delicate belonging can be safely packed using bubble wrap.

    Sizes of Bubble Wrap

    Bubble wrap comes in different sizes, which impacts the level of protection it provides:

    • 1/16-inch bubble wrap is perfect for small, lightweight items like jewelry or tabletop figurines. The small bubbles offer just enough cushion without adding bulk.
    • 1/8-inch bubble wrap is intended for slightly larger but still relatively lightweight items, offering a balance of protection and compactness.
    • 3/16-inch bubble wrap is the most common bubble wrap size. Its versatility makes it good for small to medium-sized items needing a bit more cushioning.
    • 5/16-inch bubble wrap is designed to cover medium-to-large items and protect against drops.
    • 1/2-inch bubble wrap is the largest size available, ideal for covering hefty items and filling voids inside boxes.

    Estimating Your Bubble Wrap Needs

    When preparing for a move or packing items for storage, it’s important to gauge the amount of bubble wrap you’ll need. Consider the number and size of items you’re packing, and remember that it’s always better to have too much than not enough. In general, a 10-meter roll of bubble wrap should be enough to pack up one room.

    How to Use Bubble Wrap for Packing

    Here are some useful tips for packing different breakables correctly:

    • How to pack dishes with bubble wrap: Start from one corner of a 5/16-inch bubble wrap sheet and cover each plate or bowl diagonally, overlapping the edges and tucking them in. Secure with tape.
    • How to pack glasses with bubble wrap: Cover each piece individually in 1/8- or 3/16-inch bubble wrap, ensuring the wrap extends into the glass’s opening and completely covers the stem. Secure with tape.
    • How to pack flat-screen TVs with bubble wrap: Cover the entire surface with 5/16- or 1/2-inch bubble wrap, paying close attention to the corners, which are particularly vulnerable. Secure with tape.

    Additional Bubble Wrap Tips

    Keep these tricks in mind to get the most out of your bubble wrap:

    • Wrap items individually to ensure ample cushioning between each breakable and the box.
    • Double-wrap especially fragile or valuable items.
    • For maximum cushioning effect, wrap your items with the bubbles facing inward.
    • Cover sharp edges or protrusions with cardboard protectors in addition to bubble wrap.
    • Secure the bubble wrap with high-quality packing tape to prevent it from coming undone during transit or storage.
    • Don’t rely solely on bubble wrap to protect your items. Before sealing each box, fill the void with additional materials like packing peanuts, crumpled newspaper, or 1/2-inch bubble wrap to prevent shifting.

    The Importance of Quality Storage

    Clearly, bubble wrap is an invaluable tool for protecting your items during a move or while in storage. Of course, the effectiveness of your packing job also depends on the quality of your storage unit. JD Mini Storage in Capitola, CA, provides clean, dry, secure units to help safeguard your belongings. Contact us today at 831-440-7325 for storage unit availability, pricing, and answers to any questions you have.

  • Summer Is Over! Here’s What Should Go in Your Storage Unit

    A cluttered house can be a stressful home, especially if your at-home storage space is minimal or you have a large family. Take advantage of affordable self-storage to clear out your home of seasonal items at the end of the summer. A storage rental company in Capitola, CA can offer clean, secure units in a variety of sizes.

    Summer Clothing

    Gather together any hot weather clothing you don’t intend to wear until next summer. Make sure each item is clean and thoroughly dry to discourage mildew. One of the most effective ways to protect clothing in temporary storage is to place it in vacuum-sealed bags. Then, stack the bags in a sealable plastic bin. While you’re at the storage unit, take the opportunity to get your chilly weather clothing out of storage.

    Recreational Gear

    Californians are able to enjoy the great outdoors year-round, but there are still some recreational items you might not need once summer is over. Use your self-storage rental to put away tents, portable camping stoves, and coolers. Any other recreational gear you don’t plan to use for a while can also be stored away, such as rollerblades, kayaks, golf clubs, and mountain bikes.

    Storage For Toys in Capitola, CA Pool Accessories

    Once you’ve closed your pool for the season, there’s no need for all those accessories and cleaning equipment to take up space in your garage. Your storage unit can easily accommodate pool floats and cleaning chemicals. Or, perhaps you have a kiddie pool that your children won’t be using until next summer. Protect it from the elements by storing it.

    Holiday Gifts

    Did you know there’s a right time of year to buy certain things? By taking advantage of end-of-year sales during the fall, you can finish your holiday to-do list ahead of schedule. You can store bulky gifts in your self-storage rental so that prying eyes won’t find them prematurely. The fall is a great time of year for deals on toys, housewares, electronics, and BBQ grills.

    Harvest Wine

    Even if your home lacks a wine cellar, you can take advantage of the fall harvest deals on wine by storing extra bottles in your self-storage unit. Fall is one of the best times of the year to buy wine, as it’s when vineyards introduce new vintages.