Handy tips for safely storing seasonal items
As the seasons change, so do your storage needs. Seasonal storage is more than just a convenience — it's a smart solution for managing your space efficiently throughout the year, especially if you are strapped for room. Whether you're packing away summer gear or finding a home for holiday decorations, a good seasonal storage strategy can make a world of difference.
From beach gear in winter to warm coats in summer, having a dedicated space for off-season items helps kick the clutter. We explore some key storage tips to help you maximise your space and keep your seasonal items in great shape year-round.
Let's get started on making your storage work for you!
Understanding seasonal storage needs
Winter storage often involves safeguarding items from cold, moisture and potential freeze damage. This might include storing patio furniture, gardening tools or summer sporting equipment.
Summer storage, on the other hand, typically focuses on protecting items from heat, humidity and sun damage. Think outdoor and wooden furniture, leather goods etc.
Certain items require special care during off-seasons to keep them in good condition. For example, boats and caravans need proper winter storage to prevent damage to engines and plumbing systems when not in use. Likewise, delicate fabrics like winter coats need a controlled environment during hot summers to avoid moth damage or mildew.
Common items that often require seasonal storage include:
- Sports equipment (skis, surfboards, golf clubs)
- Camping gear
- Seasonal vehicles (e.g., convertibles, motorcycles)
- Seasonal clothing and footwear
- Holiday decorations
- Gardening tools and lawn care equipment
Effective seasonal storage isn't just about finding a place to put things — it's about preserving the quality and extending the life of your belongings. In the next sections, we'll explore specific tips to help you make the most of your seasonal storage solutions.
Tips for storing summer items in winter
Proper storage is key to maintain the condition of your boat, sporting goods, vehicle and summer wardrobes during the off-season. Taking the time to clean, protect, and store these items correctly will help ensure they're ready to use when the weather changes.
Here are detailed tips for properly storing winter items over the off-season.
Summer clothing storage
- Wash and thoroughly dry all summer clothing before storage.
- Use breathable garment bags, plastic bins or cardboard boxes to store.
- Add cedar chips, sachets or other natural moth/pest repellents to deter damage.
- Store clothing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Fold delicate fabrics like silk and satin to prevent creasing.
Summer sporting equipment
- Clean all dirt off equipment before storage. Thoroughly dry everything.
- Use plastic bins, cardboard boxes or breathable fabric storage bags to keep items organised and protected.
- For items like surfboards, and golf clubs, store them in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Inflate tyres on bikes, scooters and other equipment to the recommended PSI to prevent flats.
- Disassemble and store seasonal furniture like patio sets in a dry garage or shed.
Vehicle storage
- If storing a car, SUV, caravan or motorcycle long-term, fill the gas tank, check fluid levels, and add fuel stabiliser. Inflate tyres to the proper PSI.
- Disconnect the battery and store it on a trickle charger to keep the charge.
- For extra protection, you can place the vehicle on jack stands to prevent flat spots on the tyres.
Boat storage
- Thoroughly clean and dry the boat before storage. Remove any water, debris, or pests that may have accumulated.
- Use a breathable boat cover or tarp to protect the exterior.
- If storing the boat outdoors, elevate it off the ground on blocks or a trailer to prevent damage from moisture.
- Drain all water from the engine, fuel lines and other components. Top up the fuel tank and add a fuel stabiliser.
- Remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Charge it periodically during storage.
- For inboard/outboard motors, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate fresh fuel through the system.
Tips for storing winter items in summer
As the warmer months arrive, it's the ideal time to store your winter items and gear. Here are some self storage tips for storing your winter gear, clothing and accessories:
How to store winter clothing properly
- Make sure all winter clothing, such as coats, jackets and sweaters are washed and completely dry before storing. This helps avoid mould and mildew.
- Use breathable garment bags, plastic bins, or cardboard boxes to store your off-season clothing. These options allow the items to “breathe” and reduce the risk of moisture buildup.
- Place cedar chips, mothballs, or other natural repellents in the storage containers to keep pests away and protect delicate fabrics.
- Avoid storing winter clothing in areas with high humidity or direct sunlight. A cool, dry place like a closet or storage unit works best to prevent fading and damage.
- For materials like silk, satin or wool, fold them neatly to avoid creases or permanent damage.
Winter sporting equipment storage
- Thoroughly clean all winter sports equipment before storing. Remove any dirt, salt or debris to prevent corrosion or damage.
- Store smaller items like gloves in plastic bins, storage bags or breathable fabric containers to keep them organised and protected from dust.
Choosing the right storage solution
When selecting a storage unit, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you find the best solution for your needs. Here are some essential storage tips to guide you in selecting the perfect storage unit:
Size of the storage unit
One of the first things to consider when choosing a storage unit is its size. Storage units come in a range of sizes, from small lockers to large rooms that can hold the contents of a home or office.
First, assess your needs. Take inventory of the items you plan to store and estimate the space needed. If you’re unsure, many storage providers offer size guides or expert advice to help you choose the right unit. Read more on how to choose the right storage unit for your needs.
While it may seem tempting to opt for a larger unit, it’s better to select a unit that meets your needs to avoid unnecessary costs. Conversely, don’t opt for a unit that’s too small either — ensure you have enough space to easily access your items when needed.
Check out our storage unit sizes here!
Accessibility
The convenience of accessing your storage unit is another key factor to consider. Think about how often you’ll need to access your belongings and at what times.
Do you need drive-up access? If you need to store larger items, such as furniture, vehicles or business inventory, a unit with drive-up access will make loading and unloading much easier.
If you’re storing a car, boat or caravan, make sure the facility has wide driveways, easy access points, and possibly even vehicle-specific spaces.
Security features
Security is crucial when choosing a storage unit. You want to be sure that your belongings are safe and protected from theft, damage, and environmental risks.
Look for a storage provider that offers 24/7 video surveillance and well-lit areas for added security.
Many self storage facilities have gated entry points with access codes or biometric entry, which adds an extra layer of security.
Some facilities have on-site staff during office hours, which can help address any concerns immediately.
Proximity to your location
The location of your storage unit is another important factor to consider. The closer the unit is to your home, office or the items you're storing, the easier and quicker it will be to access your belongings when needed.
Choose a storage unit that’s conveniently located near you, whether that’s in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg or another area in South Africa. This will save you time and travel costs.
Also consider your long-term storage needs. If you plan to use the storage unit for a long period, consider how your access needs might change over time.
Trust Stor-Age with your seasonal items
With locations across the country, Stor-Age provides reliable storage solutions from Cape Town to Johannesburg for all your winter and summer storage needs.
Stor-Age offers a wide range of unit sizes, excellent security features and convenient access hours. If you’re looking for a place to store your seasonal items safely, try a Stor-Age near you.