Maximize Your Space: Expert Tips for Organizing Your Self Storage Unit

Self Storage Facility


When you rent a self storage unit, it’s essential to make the most of the space. Doing so will not only make it easier to organize, find, and access your items but also help you save money by choosing the right-sized unit. Making smart self-storage choices means avoiding common mistakes, and these tips, along with a packing plan and organizational solutions, will help you keep everything in order. Facility Storage Unit Tips Start by determining which items you need to store and for how long. Will everything be in storage for the same amount of time? If not, place the items you’ll need to access first at the back of the unit. This way, you won’t have to sift through everything else to retrieve them. Determine Your Storage Space Requirements The more effort you put into packing at this stage, the more accurate your storage needs calculation will be. Packing storage units efficiently is a skill. To get it right, follow these tips: Disassemble items when possible and place all parts in one container. Group similar items together in containers (books with books, dishes with dishes, etc.). Maximize the use of mobile shelving units by packing boxes inside them. Clearly label each container, ensuring the labels are easily visible for easy identification while stored. Gather all your items in one area of your home, then measure the total space needed by width, depth, and height. This will give you the storage unit size you require. Packing Your Possessions Efficiently The more organized your packing, the more compact your load will be, making it easier to find and retrieve specific items. Group similar items together into categories, such as: Clothes Tools Appliances Furnishings Ensure everything you’re storing is thoroughly cleaned. Clear plastic containers are ideal, while cardboard boxes work well for short-term storage. Heavier Items Always Go on the Bottom To prevent damage, always place heavier items at the bottom. This helps avoid the pressure from heavier objects crushing lighter ones, like clothing. For large, non-dismantled items like tables, use them as a dual surface to stack heavier items below ...



July 22nd, 2025


Climate-Controlled Storage - A Guide to Protecting Your Belongings


Climate-Controlled Storage – A Guide to Protecting Your Belongings

Not all items can handle extreme temperatures or humidity. If you’re considering self-storage, you might wonder whether climate-controlled storage is necessary for your belongings. This guide explores when climate-controlled storage is essential and how Maple Leaf Self Storage provides secure solutions in Calgary and the Lower Mainland to protect your valuables. What is Climate-Controlled Storage? Climate-controlled storage units help regulate the temperature and humidity levels inside the lockers, ensuring that your belongings are protected from extreme weather conditions. While these units maintain a stable environment, they are not the same as wine cellars or humidors, which are specifically designed for precise temperature control. Climate-controlled units keep your items in a consistent, comfortable range, like the conditions you’d expect in your home, shielding them from the harmful effects of both hot summers and cold winters.At Maple Leaf Self Storage, our climate-controlled units are designed to provide reliable storage solutions, keeping your valuables safe from environmental damage year-round. The Benefits of Climate-Controlled Storage 1. Protection from Extreme Temperatures and Humidity Fluctuating temperatures and excessive humidity can cause warping, cracking, or mold growth. Climate-controlled storage ensures that your belongings, whether electronics, antiques, or documents—stay in their original condition. 2. Ideal for Long-Term Storage If you plan to store items for months or years, climate-controlled storage prevents deterioration over time. Protect your valuables from seasonal weather shifts and maintain their integrity with a stable storage environment. 3. Enhanced Cleanliness and Security Climate-controlled storage units at Maple Leaf Self Storage are in secure indoor facilities, reducing exposure to dust, pests, and moisture. The added protection ensures that your belongings stay clean and well-preserved. What Items Require Climate-Controlled Storage? Certain items are highly sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. If you’re storing any of the following, you should opt for climate-controlled storage: Electronics: Computers, televisions, and gaming consoles are prone to heat damage. Artwork and Antiques: Paintings, sculptures, and antique furniture can warp or crack. Musical Instruments: Guitars, violins, and pianos require stable humidity levels. Important Documents and Books: Paper items can degrade, yellow, or mold over time. Leather and Fabric Goods: ...



July 21st, 2025


Clutter-Free Guide: Be Ready for the Holiday Season Part 1 of 5 – Family Room

Tips & Tricks


While we may not share the same weather in Vancouver and Calgary, we do share one common problem as we approach the Holiday Season:  how to get your space looking clutter-free as painlessly as possible.  Our time is limited and our families are busy. Decluttering is often on your mind, but it can be difficult to get started. When you have piles of belongings, collectibles and life literally blocking your vision, it’s hard to know where to begin and what to do.Here at Maple Leaf Self Storage, we hope to help you ease this pain. We believe our five-part clutter-free guide will assist you in conquering your clutter and taking back your space.  Wouldn’t you rather be enjoying your life with friends and family? With one dedicated afternoon for each of the parts, your home will be in showcase-ready condition.In part one of this clutter-free guide, we will help you declutter your family room. Space out your family room From tranquil space to entertaining space, your living/family room is often the busiest area of your home. It is also a space where your friends and relatives will gather and get that important first impression. That’s why keeping this space clutter-free is crucial. Now let’s get started. Banish the Halloween decorations. Now that the Halloween festivities are over, it’s time to put away those ghoulish greetings and ghastly decorations. Carefully place them in boxes and store them in your attic or garage. Say goodbye to them until next October. Removal of excess items. These items include books, vases, and even furniture. Place books into medium-size boxes (large boxes full of books are heavy to move) and recycle/donate if they are not needed anymore. For those of you who have small children, place toys into labeled plastic bins. Extraction of sentimental value items. If you have excess furniture that has sentimental value, carefully move it to the garage. If space is limited, there are self storage facilities like ours available for rent. Furniture with easy access. Sectional/chaise or ottoman ...



July 18th, 2025


7 Furniture Storing Tips for Safeguarding Your Items

Tips & Tricks


Clean Your Furniture Thoroughly

Storing your furniture isn’t just about tossing old chairs and tables into a garage until further notice. It’s an art that, done correctly, can save you a heavy heart and an even heavier expense down the line.Whether you’re moving, downsizing, or renovating your treasures—yes, that squishy couch and the dining table where you’ve celebrated countless birthdays—deserve to be protected and preserved.Thus, it’s important to prepare and place them with care, so that when the time comes to reunite, they’re just as you remember themFollow these 7 essential furniture storing tips to ensure your furniture stays in top-notch condition during its hibernation. 1. Clean Your Furniture Thoroughly Before you tuck your furniture away for storage, give it a thorough clean. Why? It’s not just about making it look nice, it’s about safeguarding your beloved pieces from mold, mildew, and uninvited pests. Moisture is the enemy here; it can lead to a musty memory of what once was a splendid sofa or chair. By ensuring everything is bone-dry, you’ll be keeping those spore-slinging fiends at bay. Cleaning Wooden Furniture For each material, there’s a smart way to clean. Wooden furniture benefits from a gentle wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap, but don’t let it swim—too much water is a no-no. Condition it afterward to keep it from getting thirsty and cracking. Cleaning Upholstered Items When it comes to upholstered items, vacuuming is your first step. Spot-clean any blemishes with an upholstery-safe cleaner and let them dry completely, as dampness is a breeding ground for mold and odors. And those metal accents? A mild soap and water solution does the trick, followed by a thorough dry and maybe a touch of polish for extra protection.Think of cleaning as a pre-storage pampering session that not only prevents any present damage from getting worse but also protects your furniture’s integrity during its hibernation period. 2. Disassemble Large Furniture Pieces When you’re gearing up to store your hefty dressers and bookshelves, breaking them down into parts can be a game-changer. It’s like ...



June 25th, 2025


How Can Self Storage Make My Summer Move Worry-Free?

Tips & Tricks


How Can Self Storage Make My Summer Move Worry-Free?

While moving is never without its challenges, self storage can remove risk and anxiety. Circumstances surrounding the decision to change addresses vary. These can be professional, financial, or personal. Unexpected challenges arise. Agreed-upon destinations can suddenly become unavailable. Or perhaps you may be obliged to vacate a residence before having a new home. These problems can translate into logistical nightmares without a holding place for your belongings. Making arrangements for your safekeeping during your move is a solid strategy against unforeseen issues. There’s much to consider. What is Moving in the Summer Like? Canadians have more opportunities during the summer to take time off work to move. School’s out and the weather’s good. Also, leases expire at a greater rate in Canada during this season, and more homes go on the market.With more competition for the best places to live, it’s best to make careful plans. If you’re driving, start early: the roads may be more congested than usual. Make arrangements for pets and plants coming with you. If you have kids, ensure they’ll be hydrated and cool. The more forethought you devote to your travels, the less likely you’ll be caught off guard by a bad situation. How Else can I Ensure a Safe and Successful Move? Whether you’re moving across the country or across your city, it’s always best to be looking ahead. Make sure you’re not setting yourself up for unnecessary headaches. Your new residence must be in a practical place with the right amenities being close to home. Identify Your Family Needs If you have children, knowing their new school is crucial. Is it close? Does it have a good reputation? What is the bussing situation? Easing your kids into a new environment successfully can make the difference between a happy home or a chaotic one. Ensure Your Move Is Practical If your new job will be outside your home, how far away will it be? Will your commute be long or short? If you’ll be living in an apartment, what’s the parking situation? Conversely, ...



June 24th, 2025


Make Home Renovations Easier and Less Stressful


Home renovations can transform your living space, but they also bring a fair share of chaos and stress. Dust, debris, and clutter can make the process overwhelming, and protecting your belongings is crucial. Renovation storage solutions can help keep your home organized and stress-free. Here’s how self-storage makes home renovations easier while safeguarding your furniture, decluttering workspaces, and keeping your items safe. Protecting Your Belongings with Self Storage A home renovation means extra foot traffic, tools, and materials taking over your space. Short-term storage at a facility storage location ensures that your furniture and valuables stay clean and undamaged. Instead of cramming everything into spare rooms or the garage, placing items in a secure self storage unit protects them from potential damage.Climate-controlled storage is another excellent option, especially for delicate items like electronics, artwork, and wooden furniture. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause warping, cracking, or fading—something you won’t have to worry about with a properly maintained self storage unit. Decluttering for a Safer, More Efficient Workspace A cluttered workspace slows down progress and increases the risk of accidents. Renovation storage solutions provide extra space to move non-essential items out of the way. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen, bathroom, or entire home, having a facility storage option helps maintain an organized, hazard-free environment.Contractors and DIY renovators alike benefit from having a clear, open space to work in. Moving bulky furniture and personal items to short-term storage prevents them from being accidentally damaged and gives workers the room they need to get the job done efficiently. Flexible Storage Solutions for Short-Term and Long-Term Needs Not sure how long your renovation will take? Self storage facilities offer flexible rental terms, making short-term storage the perfect option for temporary projects. If your renovation takes longer than expected, you can easily extend your rental, ensuring your belongings stay safe until your home is ready.For major home makeovers, long-term storage can be beneficial. If your project is happening in phases or you plan to move out temporarily, having a facility storage solution ...



June 24th, 2025


Storing Seasonal Items in Your Self Storage Unit

Tips & Tricks


Seasonal Storage

What you need to know about storing seasonal items Storing seasonal items efficiently is crucial, especially after the holiday rush. With a bit of planning, you can keep your belongings safe, organized, and easily accessible for next year. Here are some top tips to help you store your seasonal items effectively. Choosing the Right Storage Unit Selecting the right type and size of storage unit is the first step in protecting your seasonal items. For those with temperature-sensitive belongings, such as electronics, delicate fabrics, or seasonal decorations, opting for a climate-controlled unit can make a significant difference. Climate-controlled units help regulate the environment inside. They mitigate extremes in temperature by employing heating and cooling systems, creating a more stable atmosphere. This is particularly important for preserving items that could be damaged by fluctuations in temperature, which can lead to warping, mildew, or other forms of deterioration. Additionally, be sure to assess factors such as accessibility, security, and the overall condition of the facility. By taking these considerations into account, you can ensure that your seasonal items are stored in an environment that maximizes their longevity and maintains their quality. Sorting and Decluttering Before packing anything away, take time to sort and declutter your seasonal items. Create three piles: items to keep, items to donate or sell, and items to discard. This sorting process not only reduces clutter but also allows you to identify what you truly need. Once you have your keep pile, you can focus on organizing these items in a suitable way. Packing for Protection Packing your items properly is key to ensuring they stay in good condition. Use high-quality sturdy boxes for fragile decorations and sports equipment. When packing, wrap each item in bubble wrap or packing paper for extra protection. Fill any empty spaces in boxes with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent shifting during transport. Remember to label each box clearly with its contents, making it easier to retrieve items when you need them. Organizing Your Storage Unit Once you’ve packed your items, ...



June 23rd, 2025


Zen of Moving Part 1 – 7 Tips to Keep it Under Control

Tips & Tricks


Zen of Moving Part 1 – 7 Tips to Keep it Under Control

Tracy McEvoy, Maple Leaf Self Storage Director, sat down with Soraiya Kaya, professional organizer, to discuss helpful tips for surviving your move. With the help of these seven tips, discover how to maintain a ‘zen’ state of mind amidst the chaos!When you think of moving, the last thing you think of is an easy, calming and masterful process. Most often, the words complicated, stressful and disorganized are much more suitable. Being the daughter of a retired branch banker, I have done my share of packing and moving over the years and, while I am not an expert, I have certainly earned some merit points.Even so, I thought that there must be some things that we can do to make the process a little less stressful and perhaps even enjoyable. With this goal in mind, I recently sat down with Soraiya Kara, the owner of POSabilities Personal Organizing and Chair of The Professional Organizers of Canada to get some expert tips. So, what can you do to foster a little Zen in your moving process? 1. Start early and have a plan If you know that you are going to be moving in the future, start early and tackle things step by step. Some families find it useful to create a moving plan on Excel that lists the various tasks that need to be done and when they should be done by. Get the entire family involved by assigning tasks to each person. Even young children can help by putting toys into bins and towels into boxes. 2. Relax and get comfortable Why sit in the den or garage and go through boxes when you can do the same thing in front of your cozy fireplace. Put on some nice music or a favourite movie that you know by heart. Light some candles and pour yourself a glass of wine. Don’t overcomplicate things and start with three boxes: Keep, Recycle and Donate. This is an excellent start. 3. Use the Mirror Test We often keep things because ...



June 17th, 2025


Zen of Moving Part 2 – 5 Strategies for Surviving the Arrival at Your New Home

Tips & Tricks


Zen of Moving Part 2

In the ‘Zen of Moving: 7 Tips to Keep it Under Control’ we shared some great ideas on how to make your moving experience a little less stressful.  Our readers loved the ideas, so we sat down with Soraiya Kara, the owner of POSabilities Personal Organizing, to gather a few more creative tips.So here’s the scenario.  You have your movers organized and the packing has started.  You are diligently using some of the great ideas from ‘Zen of Moving – Part 1’ to keep the process moving forward with minimal stress.  But in the back of your mind, you know that moving day is quickly approaching and there is no way to avoid it.  So, what other things can you do to keep the Zen alive?1.  Plan a space for everythingNo one likes moving big, heavy furniture around.  By making a floor plan, you can save yourself the heavy lifting, and leave that to the pros – your movers.  Start with a floor plan or use graph paper and map out how your existing furniture is going to fit in your new space.  You may realize that some of your items may not fit in the way that you imagined.  Consider donating these items to a local charity or passing them on to a friend.  By getting rid of unwanted or unnecessary furniture before moving day, there will be less items to transport and less cost.  Print a copy of the floor plan for your movers so that they will know exactly where to place the large items, decreasing their work load and yours.2.  Empty the pantryGetting rid of as many items as possible before a move is always a good idea and this includes food items.  Take a look in your pantry, cupboards and fridge and throw out items that have dubious ‘best before’ dates or that you are likely to never use.  With the remaining items, build some meals for the days leading up to the move.  By ...



June 16th, 2025


Maple Leaf Self Storage Holiday Food Drive. More Food. Less Hunger.

Community


Many families find it very difficult to feed their families throughout the year. It can be even more difficult during the holiday season when there are more bills to pay and greater expectations. We wanted to find a way to help. Starting today, we will be conducting a food drive at each of our 12 Maple Leaf Self Storage locations. Our goal is to collect as many non-perishable food items as possible to help support local food banks.Food bank use across Canada continues to rise according to HungerCount 2014 (a report published by Food Banks Canada). In March of this year, 841,191 people in Canada used food banks. In British Columbia alone, 97,369 people used food banks, with children making up 30.8% of the total. Only Ontario and Quebec saw more usage, with 374,698 and 156,895 respectively. Unfortunately, food bank usage has increased by 25% across Canada since 2008. With the number on the rise, it’s important for us to come together to help the families in our communities. Please help us help others. Source: Food Banks Canada annual HungerCount 2014 Report: http://buff.ly/1oZwfPiThe most needed items are: Meat/Fish/Beans Peanut and Almond Butters Whole Wheat Pasta Pasta Sauces Canned Fruits and Vegetables 100% Fruit Juices Low-sugar Cereal Rice Infant Formula Canned or Jarred Baby Food Diapers Please avoid: Homemade Items Expired Food Products Containing Alcohol Open Packages of Food We will be collecting food until the end of the year at all of our Maple Leaf Self Storage locations. Please spread the word to your family and friends and drop by one of our locations between 9 am and 5 pm with your donation. All of our stores are open seven days a week.We would also like to thank Brown’s Moving and Storage for generously volunteering to pick up all of the food collected from our 10 B.C. Self Storage locations. We couldn’t do it without you!Please give generously. Together we can reduce hunger! More Food. Less Hunger.Please donate at a location near you: Vancouver Self Storage locations:Maple Leaf Self Storage Vancouver – Commercial Dr. 33 Commercial Drive Vancouver, BC V5L ...



April 28th, 2025


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