Clever Storage Ideas for Small Spaces

Every square foot matters, especially in small houses, condominiums, and apartments . As much as we may want to keep all our belongings in our homes, the space can become disorganized and cluttered. Creating multi-functional areas is essential to both living and working spaces. While organization and decluttering has   it takes some clever and creative thinking.

If you are short on square footage, here are some storage ideas:

• Use Vertical Spaces – There are several up-and-down spaces in your home that can be put to good use. For example; you can purchase slim wire baskets and place them on the back of your bedroom door. This keeps contents in view and easily accessible. Shelving units are also useful — both in the home and if you rent space in a storage facility.

• Install Small or Rectangular Cube Shelves – Use this storage idea to stash or display essentials and “tchotchke” (e.g. books, boxes, vases, small curios and collectibles). It gives the room a cleaner and calmer feel. You can install a light on the wall to highlight your items.

• Built-In Drawers – Beds with built-in drawers provide a good storage solution for toys, linens, and clothes.

• Recessed Pantry – A cramped and cluttered kitchen can be unsightly, and make cooking difficult. For additional storage space, you can do a kitchen renovation and install adjustable shelves and sliding doors for an efficient, versatile pantry.

• Scale-Down Shelves – Large shelves can be cumbersome in small living spaces. That is why “scale-down” shelf units can yield unexpected rewards. In addition to providing a pretty display, they offer enough space to store towels and toiletries.

• Shelf Dividers – If you live in a , using shelf dividers is an inventive way to separate the bedroom from the living room without putting up a wall. Stack crates or use open shelving units, but make sure they are stable and don’t pose a hazard to you, guests, or pets.

• Floor Cabinets – Who says you can’t store items under your floor? Floor cabinets are a modern storage solution in today’s small houses. By boosting the functionality of your floor, you can easily compartmentalize and access clothes and other supplies.

• Under-the-Stair Storage – You can install glamourous, built-in storage beneath stairs to hide and organize items you rarely use. This underutilized nook is a treasure trove of unexplored space.

If these storage solutions don’t work for your budget or you still have plenty of items (holiday decorations, gardening pots and tools, outdoor furniture and cushions) that need seasonal storage, contact a reliable, safe storage facility to inquire about renting a unit.

For storage space in North York , call Centron Self Storage at (416) 739-0000. We can help you protect your valuables and furniture during a move, or when you simply don’t have enough space for them at home. Use our contact form to inquire about our clean, modern, and secure facilities

Smart Tips to Store Your Vehicle This Winter

Winter storage for cars and motorcycles means that in fall many vehicle owners have to say a temporary goodbye to their motorized friend. This can be especially true if you don’t have a garage — or other items like ice melt, lawnmowers, and snowblowers are competing for room in your at-home storage space. Although winter is still a short time away, it is never too early to look for a reliable self-storage unit to free up the area and protect your vehicle.

Why Use Storage? 

Storing  your vehicle in a a safe, cost-effective, and dry place is good for the machine. Also, slick, icy winter roads increase the risk of accident and injury. It might be a good time to retire your hot rod and take public transportation (or carpool).

Although some of us have the advantage of parking in an indoor garage or outdoor driveway, many of us must put our vehicle on the street. This poses a problem when snow and ice make it impossible to move our car or motorcycle, or they suffer damage from snow plows or other cars attempting to skid and slide down the block.

Also, snow removal treatments like salt increase the risk of corrosion, and damage the exterior and engine. If your vehicle is not designed for harsh driving conditions, park it someplace safe.

Tips for Winter Car and Motorcycle Storage 

• Cleanliness – Choose a facility that is clean and free from rodents. Mice and small animals can potentially damage the engine and interior of the car. Make sure the storage space looks clean and watertight to avoid damage from moisture.

• Detailing Your Car – Give your vehicle a thorough detailing, both inside and out before bringing it into storage. Bring it to a reliable car detailing service for professional washing, waxing, and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Have the undercarriage of a car sprayed with a rubberized coating to protect from rusting. When spring comes, you know you’ll be ready to hit the road.

• Check the Fluids – Check fluid levels before parking your vehicle for the winter. Change the engine oil and filter, if needed. Your car should have enough antifreeze, especially as sub-zero temperatures approach. Adding fuel stabilizer to an almost-full gas tank can prevent corrosion in the engine block and fuel lines.

• Remove the Battery – The battery will eventually discharge if it is not used and recharged. A fully discharged battery can slowly freeze and become unstable if a car is kept in an unheated storage unit. Remove the battery and keep it charged elsewhere. Use a battery maintainer to keep it recharged. If you have a vehicle that requires an electric charge, inquire if the storage facility has access to an outlet in the unit — or make other plans for your battery.

• Inflate Your Tires – Tires lose pressure over time, especially in extreme temperatures. Fill your tires with slightly more than the average air pressure, but do not exceed the manufacturer’s recommended maximum. This step reduces the risk of tire deflation and protects your vehicle from resting on its rims.

With all the money, time, and energy we invest in our vehicles,

For clean, modern, and secure storage in North York, call Centron Self Storage at (416) 739-0000. Protect your car or motorcycle from the threats that winter offers. We’re happy to help you with your other storage needs as well; contact us today.

Storage Solutions for Camping Equipment

Camping requires a lot of preparation. This, however, should not be limited to watching weather forecasts to avoid camping in the rain. You also need to pay attention to the state of your camping equipment.

If your camping equipment is in less-than-stellar condition, it can take the fun out of a trip. Take proper care of your camping gear and equipment to make your outdoor adventures infinitely more fun and exciting. Always store equipment properly during camping excursions and in-between trips.

Packing for a Trip

• Use transportable storage bins. If hiking and trekking isn’t on the itinerary, you won’t need to carry large bags. Pack items in large storage bins, preferably those with wheels. It’s easier to take them out of storage, load them onto your vehicle, and roll them towards the campsite. Durable and resistant to weather, they provide ample protection.
• Categorize. Place cooking utensils in one bin, tents and sleeping bags in another, and food and drinks in separate coolers. Label each container to make packing and unpacking easier.

• Reserve bags for clothes and personal items. It’s easier to keep track of your belongings if objects like clothes, gadgets, or kids’ toys are inside the owners’ bags. Save space and pack only what is necessary. Roll your clothes (instead of folding them), or pack them in bundles for easy access.

• Keep things dry. Place toilet paper, dry snacks, and electronics in zip-lock bags or sealed plastic containers. If you prefer the eco-friendly approach, you can repurpose appropriately-sized cans (like those for coffee or coffee creamer) for the job.

Storing Equipment In-Between Trips

Dirt and moisture are the enemies of safe storage. They can attract mould, mildew, and rot which will degrade your camping equipment before your next trip. To protect gear from deterioration, clean them thoroughly and make sure that they are completely dry.

• Sleeping Bags – Before you throw them in the washing machine, give them a shake to dislodge loose items. Place them in the dryer (with a piece of terry cloth if you want them to dry faster). Shake them to realign the insulation before rolling them and placing them back into their bags.

• Tent – If your tent is not too dirty, use a damp cloth to clean the inside, outside, and the tent poles. Otherwise, hose the tent down. Make sure all pieces are completely dry before you place them back into storage. Having a clean tent will make preparing for the next camping trip smoother.

• Clothing – Wash clothes thoroughly and place them in the dryer in high heat to kill any bugs (like blacklegged ticks) that may have nested in your clothes. Seasonal items, like hiking boots, should be air-dried after washing.

Store camping equipment and gear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep them together for easy unpacking by dedicating one section of a closet to camping items. If your residence has limited storage space, rent a self-storage unit. It will protect your items from the elements while keeping it out of sight when not in use.

The facilities of Centron Self-Storage are equipped with the latest security technology. We provide you with 24/7 access to your unit with the assistance of our fully trained staff. Call (416) 739-0000 for storage rentals in North York.

“Smooth Moves” — Tips for a Job Relocation

Taking up a new job can be stressful, but the stress can increase if it involves moving to a new city.

The following tips can make the transition smoother for both you and your family.

Do your research

Before you commit to relocating, educate yourself about your new town or city. Take the time to visit and talk to people who live and work in the area. Spend at least a week trying to take in the sights and sounds of the area, experiencing the area firsthand. Interacting with residents will also give you a deeper and more realistic insight into your new community.

Assess the following aspects:

• Living Arrangements – Go house hunting. Explore the property options in different neighbourhoods. If you do not find a living space to your liking, you can opt for a short-term lease. This gives you more time to search for the optimal living arrangements for you and your family.

• Cost of Living – How affordable is the area? Is your new job sufficient enough to cover your living expenses? Ideally, your new salary should be competitive and cover the cost of living in your new location.
• Job Opportunities – Although it’s best to only accept a secure job offer in a new city, you should prepare for unforeseen circumstances that may cause your expectations to change. Understand the state of the economy and job market in your new area. Consider this as a preemptive measure in the event that you need to find other employment opportunities to protect you and your family’s income.

Besides the aforementioned factors, take into account:

• Weather conditions and seasonal patterns in the area
• Schools
• Entertainment options
• Shops and services
• Dining options and grocery stores
• Medical requirements (e.g. access to walk-in clinics)

Determine the relocation assistance program

Many companies offer a relocation assistance program for potential employees residing outside the area. The package may include:

• House hunting visits to the new location
• Temporary lodgings
• Assistance with the sale and purchase of a home
• Moving fees

If your new employer does not mention any assistance with the process of relocation, consider the possibility of negotiation.

Organize

• Downsize your home before you start packing. Hold a garage sale or sell any unnecessary items online. Take only what is necessary
• Categorize your items. Place similar things together to facilitate unpacking and redistributing the items into your new home
• Label boxes

Look for temporary storage

If house hunting does not go as smoothly as expected, you may need to settle for temporary accommodations. In case your transitory abode may be too small to fit all of your possessions, consider renting a self-storage unit. This is also a viable option if you do not want to go through the hassle of packing and unpacking everything a second time.

In order to find the best storage company, be sure that they offer the following:

• Ample unit size
• Security
• Accessibility
• Flexible lease options

If you’re relocating to North York turn to Centron Self Storage. Our self-storage facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art security measures, fully trained staff, and a variety of storage room sizes. For North York, call (416) 739-0000.

Bookworm Bliss: Assembling Your Own Library

For book-lovers and collectors alike, having a personal library may seem like a dream. It is a creative and fulfilling way to express yourself and an affinity for books and reading. Assembling your own library allows you to effectively store a collection while giving you easy access to it.

Setting up a library requires thought and careful consideration. Consider: location, organization, shelving materials, and design. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Choose the right space.

Though most rooms in your home might provide adequate space for a library, there are a few areas to avoid. Do not store books in the attic or basement. These areas can be humid and make ideal nesting grounds for mould, insects, and rodents.

Another thing to consider is that natural light can damage books. If you plan to store them in a room with large windows and plenty of natural light, choose an area that is as far away from direct sunlight as possible. For those with limited space at home, self-storage units are also great places to keep a book collection.

Select the proper shelving system.

Whether you’re setting up a library in your home or self-storage unit, consider how best to display (or store) your books. With a home library, you have some creative freedom. You can remodel the space to accommodate built-in bookshelves or mount shelves and cases on the wall. If you’re leaning towards the modern look, install hanging shelves or clear acrylic bookcases.

For self-storage, classic bookshelves and display cases will serve your purpose. If you’re working on a tight budget, you can opt for sturdy crates. Stack them (safely) on top of each other for a rustic but stylish display.

Organize your collection.

You may not need the Dewey Decimal system to organize your library, but you still need a way to sort your collection to help you find certain books quickly. Organize your collection in one of the following ways:

• alphabetically
• chronologically (in the order you acquired them)
• by colour
• by need (read or unread)

Set up your reading space.

If your library is in your home, you’ll likely want a nearby space to read. Include a sofa or a chair, a writing table or coffee table, and maybe a lamp or two for adequate lighting. Ascertain how much space you have to work with and select furniture that’s the appropriate size. If you are left only with a small corner, a comfy chair or some large pillows propped against the wall can create a nice “reading nook.”

Enjoy your books by creating a library for your collection in your home — or off-site. For storage of your books elsewhere, choose a facility that is secure, dry, and has 24/7 access.

If you choose to build your library in a self-storage unit in the North York, Centron Self Storage can help. Call us at (416) 739-0000.

Space-Saving Hacks for Dorm Rooms

University students can attest that dorm rooms are anything but spacious. Finding the appropriate space to stash your belongings can be challenging, especially when you have books, papers, computers, and other academic materials to handle. To make it easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of affordable ways to help save space and organize, avoid clutter, and live more comfortably while studying at university.

Maximizing the Space

If your university residence rules allow it, installing a “loft” can expand the small space. One roommate can sleep on the top, leaving room for additional storage, a mini-fridge, desk, and/or a small seating area/futon underneath. Ask your resident director before building anything inside the room, and make sure it doesn’t damage walls or other already-installed furniture. Get help from an experienced builder to guarantee you and your friends are safe in the room.

Under-the-Bed Storage

Beds with the standard height usually allow for some storage space on the floor below. Do not haphazardly shove random items underneath the bed; this makes it time consuming and inconvenient to locate things. Instead, organize your belongings in plastic containers, flat bins, baskets, or repurposed drawers. You can also use the space to store luggage, out-of-season clothes, or shoes you don’t often wear.

Wall Space

Vertical storage is a practical space-saving solution for dorm rooms. There are various ways you can take advantage of an empty wall. Rather than losing the space to a large, unattractive poster, use small storage solutions and place smaller posters around them for a look that’s functional and pleasing to the eye.

• Floating Shelves – Floating shelves provide an additional place for items like books, notebooks, school supplies, and other personal effects. They are easy to install and remove at the end of the year when you move. Again, first check dormitory rules about affixing items to the walls.

• Command Hooks – One way to make great use of your wall space is to attach “command” hooks. These hooks (made by 3M) adhere to walls securely and support weight, but can easily be removed without causing damage to the wall or paint. Use them to hang bags, towels, or headphones.

• Hanging Wall Pockets – These storage solutions allow you to maximize wall space by providing an additional way to organize various items. Use hanging wall pockets to store shoes, jewelry, cosmetics, toiletries, and electronics.

Doors

When you run out of room in your drawers, under the bed, and on the walls, your door can give you an added bit of storage space. You can use door racks, hanging wall pockets, or Command hooks to hold bags, toiletry pouches, school supplies, or hoodies and robes.

If you need a place to store items between terms or over the summer, consider renting a self-storage unit. There are many affordable options that can safely secure your belongings while you travel or visit family.

Centron Self Storage in North York offers different-sized units for various needs and budgets. Call us at (416) 739-0000.

Minimalist Living with Self-Storage

As more people begin to see value in the “less is more” principle, they may also consider living a minimalist lifestyle. Contrary to what some believe, minimalism does not mean you live with nothing. Its true pursuit is prioritizing possessions so we end up with only what we need.

By adopting a minimalist lifestyle, you can:

• Reduce both physical and mental stress by removing excess stimuli.
• Prioritize experiences over material possessions.
• Focus more on self, what you love, and what brings you satisfaction.

You don’t necessarily have to get rid of a lot all at once. You can start slowly and work your way from there. Here are some approaches to de-clutter your space and begin a journey to a minimalist lifestyle.

KonMari Method

Popularized by Marie Kondo, author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, the KonMari Method is centred on keeping only what “sparks joy” and disposing of the rest. You start by gathering every item in one category and deciding which to keep. As you see the items side by side, you can compare and more easily spot duplicates to discard.

Play the 30-Day Minimalism Game (#MinsGame)

Created by two bloggers who call themselves “The Minimalists,” the Mins Game was designed to help those seeking to remove clutter from their homes. You start by getting rid of (or giving away) one item on the first day of the month, two items the second day, three items the third day, and so on until you donate or dispose of 30 (or 31) items on the last day of the month. In a typical 30-day month, you will have rid yourself of 465 items.

Clean your closets by implementing Project 333.

Project 333 challenges you to wear only 33 items (or less) in the span of three months. The 33 items include clothes, accessories, and footwear — but not the ones you wear all the time (e.g. wedding ring, undergarments, sleep/lounge wear, and workout clothes). Box the rest of the items and keep them out of sight till three months are past. Then, create a new list and get rid of items you didn’t wear or miss.

For items that are seasonal, have sentimental value, or need to be stored for future use, turn to self-storage units to preserve space in your home. Keep your possessions in an area where the safety and security of your possessions are a priority.

Centron Self Storage allows you to enjoy the advantages of a simple and clutter-free minimalist home, without having to give away items of value or emotional attachment. Call our North York facility at (416) 739-0000.

How Self-Storage Can Benefit Millennials

If you were born between the years 1982 and 2004, you are considered a member of the “Millennial generation” — the largest age group since the Baby Boomers. Your age group hails from backgrounds and values markedly different from those of older generations. Millennials are endowed with a familiarity of technology and are the most educated generation to date. However, yours is also an age group plagued by high student debt and unemployment rates in North America.

Because of this, millennials are less likely to settle down early and commit to long-term liabilities (like purchasing a house) leading to concerns regarding storage. For this reason, millennials just about to start their careers need to consider the potential benefits of self-storage.

No Space, No Problem

Financial constraints make it difficult to purchase property. Most millennials opt to rent small studio apartments, share rent space with friends, or stay (or move back in) with parents. Those who do purchase houses choose budget friendly, small-scale homes. Unfortunately, these options come with limited storage space.

The good news is that you don’t need to completely do away with all your possessions — you can turn to self-storage units for the safekeeping of your property.

For the Transient Lifestyle

Millennials understand the significance of job satisfaction and growth. Unlike previous generations, they are less likely to remain in the employ of one location for more than five years. Switching jobs may also entail the need to move, making storage a consideration when making career choices.

Technology affords millennials the ability to work “remotely” so you can hold your job anywhere — whether at home or while travelling. But where do you place your belongings in the meantime?

Self-storage supports this (more transient) lifestyle by offering a safe and secure place to keep property when you move or when you travel.

Convenient, Accessible, Short-Term

Tech-savvy millennials find the convenience of self-storage to their advantage. Many storage facilities make their services accessible through the Internet. You can inquire about rates and unit size online, read reviews and client testimonials on websites, review their social media accounts, and peruse various business directories. You have the ability to make reservations through website forms, and pay bills online.

With 24/7 access, state-of-the-art security features, and a short-term lease, self-storage is a strong match for the generation that values convenience, accessibility, and flexibility.

Centron Self Storage provides quality storage services at affordable rates — a great solution for the value-conscious Millennial. Rent online by visiting our home page or fill in our reservation request form . You can also dial (416) 739-0000 to reach our storage facility in North York.

How Small Businesses Can Benefit from Self-Storage

Although self-storage is commonly associated with personal use (individuals needing temporary storage or collectors needing a location to house valuable keepsakes), it can also benefit small business owners. Whether you’ve been running a small business for years or are on the verge of launching a startup, finding ample storage space can be a challenge. It’s a problem easily solved by renting a self-storage unit.

Businesses that take advantage of commercial storage include:

• Retailers or eCommerce Businesses
• Caterers or Small Restaurant Owners
• Contractors (Housing, Landscaping, Construction)
• Publishing Companies

Benefits of Self-Storage for Small Businesses

• Storage for Merchandise

For retail, overstock of seasonal items can be particularly problematic. Without ample storage space, you may experience:

• difficulty keeping track of inventory
• disorganized merchandise (off-season items mixing with in-season ones)
• holding old stock (limited space for new items)

Whether you’re a retailer with a brick-and-mortar store or an online shop, it is easier to manage inventory with a storage unit. With additional space to store excess merchandise, you can easily move around items, locate what you want, and take out only what you need.

• Storage for Documents and Tools

Some businesses may be required to keep hard copies for the purpose of backing up important documents (that may also be stored digitally). These may include:

• corporate bylaws
• contracts
• articles or press releases
• government forms and correspondence
• financial records
• papers, magazines, or books

Trades or businesses that require the use of tools and equipment too large for a home office or garage can safely stow them in self-storage facilities. Climate-controlled units provide additional protection if you are storing papers for the long-term.

• Minimal Overhead Costs

Small businesses do not require as much storage space as a large enterprise. Self-storage units are a cost-effective solution, rather than renting an oversized warehouse. Short-term contracts are available for seasonal businesses that do not need a storage unit year-round.

With self-storage, you pay only for what you need when you need it.

• Convenience and Flexibility

Self-storage facilities offer various benefits:

• 24/7 access to the facility
• assistance of trained staff
• storage materials and supplies for purchase
• dollies for easier move-in and move-out

You can choose your unit size and contract term based upon your individual business needs. As your company expands, increase your storage space.

• Safety and Security

Business owners enjoy feeling that our products, tools, and/or documents are secure. Reputable self-storage companies offer state-of-the-art security to guard your investment from theft. Climate-controlled facilities offer protection from humidity, extreme temperatures, and other environmental factors that can damage your belongings.

Centron Self Storage provides value: a cost-effective and secure solution for storage space needs. For self-storage space in North York, call (416) 739-0000. Our request form will put you directly in touch with Centron.