Moving? Here's How Self-Storage Can Save Your Sanity

Wood items—whether furniture, antiques, or unfinished materials—are beautiful and durable, but they require special care when stored for long periods. At American Self Storage, we often get questions about the best way to store wooden furniture and belongings safely. If you're planning to put wood items into storage, this guide will help you protect them from warping, cracking, or moisture damage. Whether you're storing a wooden dining table, bed frame, chairs, or even hardwood planks, a little preparation goes a long way. Why Proper Storage Matters for Wood Wood is a natural, porous material that responds to changes in temperature and humidity. If exposed to moisture, it can swell or rot. In dry conditions, it may crack or shrink. That’s why protecting your wooden items in a storage unit requires some extra steps to preserve their shape and integrity. Here’s how to do it right: 1. Clean Thoroughly Before Storing Dust and dirt can scratch wood surfaces over time, especially when items are stacked or covered. Before moving your items into storage: Dust all surfaces with a soft cloth Wipe down with a wood-safe cleaner Remove any metal hardware (if possible) to prevent rust stains Let the items dry completely before wrapping or storing If you're storing furniture like tables, desks, or cabinets, empty all drawers and remove shelves to prevent shifting and damage during transport. 2. Apply a Protective Wax or Polish Once the wood is clean and dry, applying a light layer of furniture wax or polish can help protect the surface from drying out or absorbing moisture. This also helps reduce the risk of cracking or warping in less-than-ideal humidity levels. Be sure to choose a product designed for wood and test it on a small area before applying it to the entire item. 3. Disassemble Large Furniture When Possible Taking apart large furniture pieces not only makes them easier to move but also reduces the stress placed on joints and connections while in storage. This includes: Removing table legs Taking headboards and bed frames apart Separating shelves from bookcases Be sure to label and bag all screws, bolts, and hardware so reassembly is simple later. 4. Use Protective Covers—But Skip Plastic It’s important to cover your wood furniture to protect it from dust, scratches, and light exposure, but plastic is not your friend here. Plastic can trap moisture, which increases the risk of mold and mildew. Instead, use breathable materials such as: Cotton sheets Moving blankets Furniture pads These materials allow air to circulate while keeping surfaces safe from abrasion and light exposure. 5. Elevate Items Off the Ground Even in clean, well-maintained storage units, it’s smart to raise your furniture and wood items off the floor. This adds a layer of protection in the rare event of condensation or water intrusion and also keeps your items away from dust and debris. Use wooden pallets, cinder blocks, or furniture sliders to elevate your pieces and promote airflow beneath them. 6. Choose the Right Type of Storage Unit While our storage units are clean and built for general use, some items—like antique or high-value wood furniture—may benefit from extra environmental control. If available at your American Self Storage location, consider asking about options that limit exposure to temperature extremes. At the very least, choose an interior unit that’s shielded from direct sunlight and fluctuating outdoor temperatures. 7. Stack Carefully to Avoid Pressure Damage If you’re storing multiple items, avoid stacking heavy objects on top of wooden surfaces. Wood can dent, warp, or split under uneven pressure. Store items vertically when possible or place lighter items on top using padding to separate layers. Maintain a little space between furniture and the walls of the unit to encourage airflow. 8. Don’t Forget About Maintenance Even when your items are in storage, it’s a good idea to check on them periodically—especially if you're storing them long-term. Inspect for signs of moisture, pests, or shifting, and adjust your coverings or placement as needed. Safely Store Your Wood Items with American Self Storage American Self Storage is here to help you store your belongings with confidence. Our storage units are great for both short-term and long-term needs, and we take pride in keeping our facilities clean, well-maintained, and easy to access. If you’re storing furniture, wooden décor, or construction materials, be sure to follow the tips above to keep your items in great condition. And if you’re unsure about which unit is right for you, our friendly team is always happy to help. Visit our website to find a location near you and reserve your unit today—it’s the smart, stress-free way to make space while protecting the things you value most.

Affordable, secure, and flexible space designed with local businesses in mind. American Self Storage in Sanford, NC, offers more than just space—it offers peace of mind for local business owners and contractors. Whether you’re storing valuable inventory, sensitive documents, or heavy-duty tools and equipment, our facility is designed to meet the unique needs of working professionals. With temperature-controlled units, extended access hours, and contractor-specific features like fully enclosed garages and concierge-style amenities, American Self Storage helps keep your business organized, secure, and running efficiently. Plus, with flexible leases and competitive pricing, you get the room you need without the high cost of traditional commercial space.

PROTECTION PLAN VS. INSURANCE POLICIES

As the days grow longer and the temperatures start to rise, spring cleaning is on everyone’s to-do list. It’s the perfect time to refresh your home, declutter your space, and create a more organized environment. However, tackling a deep clean can feel overwhelming—especially when you don’t know what to do with all the items you aren’t ready to part with. That’s where self-storage comes in! Using a self-storage unit can help you maximize your spring cleaning efforts by giving you extra space to store seasonal items, sentimental belongings, and household clutter. Here’s how renting a storage unit can make your spring cleaning easier and more effective.

Managing Your Storage Unit Over Time: Simple Tips to Stay Organized

Storing important documents and files requires careful planning to ensure they remain safe, secure, and easy to access. Whether you’re organizing personal records, business documents, or family heirlooms, American Self Storage is here to help. Follow these tips to store your documents and files properly: 1. Use Durable Storage Containers Invest in sturdy, waterproof containers to protect your documents from potential moisture, pests, and dust. Plastic bins with tight-fitting lids are a great option for added security. 2. Label Everything Clearly Organize your files into categories such as financial records, medical documents, legal papers, and personal keepsakes. Label each container and folder clearly to save time when searching for specific items. 3. Avoid Folding or Rolling Documents Store documents flat to prevent creases or damage. Use file folders or archival-quality storage sleeves to keep papers in pristine condition. 4. Place Frequently Used Documents in Accessible Locations If you need to access certain files regularly, keep them in a labeled box near the front of your storage unit for convenience. 5. Use Filing Cabinets or Shelving Maximize your storage unit’s vertical space by using filing cabinets or shelving units. This helps keep your documents organized and off the ground. 6. Add a Layer of Protection for Valuables For extra important items like passports, wills, or original certificates, consider using a fireproof and waterproof safe. Place the safe in your storage unit for added peace of mind. 7. Keep an Inventory Create a detailed list of all stored documents and their locations within the unit. This inventory will make it easier to find what you need without rummaging through boxes. 8. Ensure Proper Ventilation in Your Unit Proper airflow in your storage unit can help prevent moisture buildup. Avoid stacking boxes too closely against walls to allow for ventilation. 9. Check Your Documents Periodically Visit your storage unit occasionally to ensure your documents remain in good condition. This also provides an opportunity to update your inventory and reorganize as needed. 10. Ask for Assistance if Needed At American Self Storage, our team is always ready to help. Whether you need advice on packing supplies or assistance choosing the right-sized unit, we’re here for you. Storing important documents and files doesn’t have to be complicated. With these tips and the secure solutions offered by American Self Storage, you can keep your valuable records safe and well-organized for years to come. Contact us today to find the perfect storage unit for your needs!

Self-storage is a convenient way to keep your belongings safe, but maximizing the space in your unit ensures you get the most value for your money. Here are some practical tips to help you efficiently organize and utilize every inch of your storage unit.  1. Choose the Right Size Unit Before anything else, start by selecting a unit that fits your needs. If you’re unsure, use a storage size guide or speak with our team to determine the best fit for your items. 2. Use Uniform Boxes Invest in same-sized boxes to make stacking easier and safer. Uniform boxes create a stable base and allow you to maximize vertical space. Label each box clearly on multiple sides for quick identification. 3. Stack Vertically Think of your storage unit as a vertical space, not just horizontal. Use heavy items as a base and lighter items on top. Consider investing in shelving units if your storage facility allows it. 4. Pack Strategically Use every corner by placing bulky items like furniture or mattresses along the walls. Store items you may need to access frequently closer to the entrance. Disassemble tables, chairs, and bed frames to save space. 5. Take Advantage of Empty Spaces Use drawers, bins, and baskets for smaller items. Fill hollow furniture like dressers or filing cabinets with additional belongings. 6. Use Vacuum-Sealed Bags for Clothing and Linens Compressing soft items like clothing, blankets, and linens saves significant space. Vacuum-sealed bags are also great for protecting items from dust and moisture. 7. Label and Create an Inventory Label all boxes with detailed descriptions. Create an inventory list to track everything you’ve stored. Keep a map of your storage unit layout for easy access. 8. Keep a Clear Path Leave a small walkway down the center or along one side of the unit. This allows you to move around without having to unpack and repack items. 9. Store Vertically-Friendly Items Upright Large items like mattresses, mirrors, and sofas can be stored upright to save floor space. Use protective padding to prevent scratches or damage. 10. Reevaluate Periodically As your needs change, revisit your unit and reorganize. You might find items you no longer need to store, freeing up even more space. Maximize Your Storage with American Self Storage At American Self Storage, we’re here to help you make the most of your space. Our clean, secure, and well-maintained facilities are perfect for all your storage needs. Need more tips or assistance? Contact us today or stop by one of our locations!

As a business owner, managing inventory efficiently is crucial for your success. Whether you run a retail shop, an e-commerce business, or a service-based company, having the right amount of inventory on hand without overwhelming your workspace is essential. One solution that many business owners overlook is self-storage. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to utilize self-storage for effective inventory management. 1. Assess Your Inventory Needs Evaluate Current Inventory Levels Analyze Sales Trends: Start by reviewing your sales data to understand peak seasons and trends. This will help you gauge how much inventory you need to keep on hand. Identify Storage Gaps: Determine if you have enough space to store your inventory without sacrificing your operational efficiency. Choose the Right Size Unit Determine Storage Requirements: Based on your analysis, decide on the size of the storage unit you need. Consider both current inventory and any future inventory you plan to acquire. Plan for Growth: Select a unit that allows for some flexibility in case your inventory needs increase. 2. Organizing Your Storage Unit Efficient Layout Create a Floor Plan: Design a layout for your storage unit that maximizes space and makes items easy to access. Place frequently used items near the entrance for convenience. Use Shelving and Bins: Invest in shelving units and bins to keep your inventory organized. Label everything clearly to facilitate quick retrieval. Inventory Tracking Implement a System: Utilize inventory management software or spreadsheets to track what you have in storage. Regularly update this system to reflect any changes in stock levels. Regular Audits: Schedule periodic checks of your storage unit to ensure that your inventory matches your records. This helps to avoid discrepancies and manage stock levels effectively. 3. Seasonal Inventory Management Storing Seasonal Products Identify Seasonal Items: If your business has products that are seasonal (like holiday decorations or summer gear), consider using self-storage to house these items when they’re not in demand. Organize by Season: Use separate sections of your storage unit for different seasons. This way, when the season arrives, you can easily access the necessary items. Streamline Transitions Efficient Turnaround: As seasons change, promptly transition your inventory in and out of storage. This ensures you always have the right products available for your customers. 4. Cost-Effective Solution Reduce Overhead Lower Rent Costs: Renting a self-storage unit can be more affordable than expanding your retail space. This helps you keep overhead costs low while maintaining flexibility in inventory management. Minimize Wasted Space: By utilizing a storage unit, you can keep your primary business location uncluttered, allowing you to focus on sales and customer service. Flexible Leasing Options Short-Term and Long-Term Leases: Many self-storage facilities offer flexible leasing options, allowing you to rent for as long or as short a period as you need. This can be particularly beneficial during peak seasons.  5. Final Thoughts Using self-storage for inventory management can be a game-changer for your business. It provides a cost-effective, flexible solution that allows you to keep your inventory organized and accessible without cluttering your main workspace. At American Self Storage, we offer a variety of storage unit sizes to fit your inventory management needs. Whether you’re looking to store seasonal items or need a dedicated space for overflow inventory, we have the right solution for you. If you’re ready to take control of your inventory management with self-storage, contact American Self Storage today!

Don’t get stuck! Here's what you should (and definitely shouldn't) leave in storage.