How to Store Summer Items During Winter

Adam Jarrell • November 25, 2025

Winter is here, and that means it’s time to put away your summer essentials safely until the warm weather returns. From patio furniture to sports gear, storing your summer items correctly can prevent damage and make springtime setup a breeze. At American Self Storage, we offer secure, convenient storage solutions to protect your belongings all year long.


1. Sort and Declutter Before Storing


Before packing anything away, go through your summer items and decide what to keep, donate, or toss. Broken pool toys, worn-out beach gear, or outdated patio furniture can be recycled or donated. This step ensures your storage unit only contains items you truly need.


2. Clean Everything Thoroughly


Dirt, sand, and moisture left on items can cause stains, rust, or mold over time. Wash and dry beach chairs, umbrellas, pool toys, and sports equipment. For clothing, make sure swimsuits and towels are completely dry before packing to avoid mildew.


3. Protect Your Items


Patio Furniture: Consider using furniture covers or wrapping with blankets to prevent scratches.

Sports Equipment: Store in boxes or bins, especially smaller items like tennis rackets or baseball gloves.

Beach Gear & Toys: Keep in labeled, plastic storage bins to avoid damage and make them easy to find in spring.


Proper storage helps extend the life of your gear, especially when it will be sitting unused for months, which is why storing sports equipment year-round with the right setup matters.


4. Choose the Right Storage Space


At American Self Storage, we offer a variety of unit sizes with drive-up access for easy loading. If you’re storing items sensitive to temperature or humidity, like inflatables or wooden furniture, ask about climate-controlled units. This will protect your belongings from extreme cold, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.


For convenient seasonal storage close to home, American Self Storage in Fuquay-Varina offers easy access units designed to handle everything from patio furniture to summer sports gear.



5. Organize Your Unit for Easy Access


Stack heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top. Keep boxes labeled and place frequently used items near the front. Creating an inventory list can save you time searching for things later.


Planning how items are stacked and labeled makes a big difference when you want to make the most of every inch of your unit, especially during seasonal storage transitions like this. How to maximize space in your storage unit can help you pack smarter from day one.


6. Check on Your Items Periodically


Even in winter, it’s smart to stop by your storage unit occasionally to ensure everything is in good condition. Make sure nothing has shifted, and there are no signs of moisture or pests.


Storing your summer items doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and a secure storage unit at American Self Storage, your beach gear, patio furniture, and sports equipment will be ready for fun as soon as the weather warms up.


Ready to reserve your storage unit today? Contact American Self Storage to find the perfect size for your needs.

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