Blog | Arcadia Self Storage

Do You Need Climate-Controlled Storage? Here’s How to Tell

When it comes to choosing a storage unit, one of the most common questions people ask is: “Do I really need climate-controlled storage?” At first, it might seem like just an extra feature, but for many belongings, climate control can be the difference between keeping your items in excellent condition, or finding them damaged when you return. What is Climate-Controlled Storage? Climate-controlled storage units are designed to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level year-round. While traditional storage units protect your belongings from the outside elements, they can still get hot in the summer or chilly in the winter. Climate-controlled units, on the other hand, keep the environment stable, helping protect sensitive items from heat, cold, and moisture.Think of it like keeping your belongings in a cozy, indoor room rather than in a garage or shed that feels the effects of the weather. Why Climate Control Matters Extreme temperatures and high humidity can cause serious damage to certain belongings. In Arcadia, CA, summers can get warm and dry, while seasonal changes still bring fluctuations in temperature. Over time, these changes can lead to: Warping or cracking in wood furniture. Rust or corrosion on electronics, appliances, or metal items. Mold and mildew growth on fabrics, paper, or leather. Fading, yellowing, or deterioration of important documents, photos, or books. If you’re planning on storing items that are sensitive to these conditions, climate-controlled storage provides an added layer of protection and peace of mind. Signs You Might Need a Climate-Controlled Unit So how do you know if climate-controlled storage is right for you? Here are some clear signs and examples to help you decide: 1. You’re Storing Electronics or Appliances Televisions, computers, sound systems, microwaves, and refrigerators are all vulnerable to heat and moisture. Even a little bit of humidity can cause internal damage or rust, shortening their lifespan. 2. You Own Wood or Leather Furniture Wood is particularly sensitive to temperature changes, which can cause it to swell, warp, or crack. Leather furniture can dry out, fade, or develop mildew if exposed to humidity. 3. You Have Important ...

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August 29th, 2025

What Size Storage Unit Do I Need? A Simple Guide to Finding the Right Fit

If you’ve ever packed for a trip and realized halfway through that your suitcase is too small (or way too big), you already know how tricky it can be to estimate space. The same goes for choosing the right size storage unit. Whether you're moving, decluttering, or just need extra space, picking a unit that fits your needs, without overpaying for unused space, is key. Here’s a simple guide to help you figure it out, no measuring tape required. Why Storage Unit Size Matters Choosing the right size storage unit can save you money, reduce stress, and protect your belongings. Too small, and you’ll end up frustrated (or renting a second unit). Too big, and you’re paying for empty space you don’t need. Our goal is to help you find the right size. The Most Common Storage Unit Sizes (And What Fits Inside) Here’s a breakdown of the most popular storage unit sizes and what you can typically fit in each: 5x5 (25 sq. ft.) – “Hall Closet” Perfect for: A few boxes Seasonal items (holiday decorations, winter coats, etc.) Small furniture (end tables, lamps) Office supplies or small file cabinets This is ideal if you’re just looking to declutter or need a little extra space for personal items. 5x10 (50 sq. ft.) – “Walk-in Closet” Great for: Studio apartment or dorm room contents A mattress set, dresser, and several boxes Sporting gear, bikes, or tools This is a common choice for students or anyone downsizing for a short time. 10x10 (100 sq. ft.) – “Half a Garage” Fits: Contents of a 1-bedroom apartment Large appliances like a refrigerator or washer/dryer Furniture (couch, dining table, mattress sets) One of our most popular sizes, great for both short-term and long-term use. 10x15 (150 sq. ft.) – “Large Bedroom” Perfect for: 2–3 rooms worth of furniture Large appliances and boxes Business inventory or equipment Ideal for families in transition or small business owners needing extra inventory space. 10x20 (200 sq. ft.) – “Standard Garage” Fits: Contents of a 2–3 bedroom home A vehicle, or large equipment Furniture, outdoor gear, and more Moving homes or remodeling? This is your go-to. How Do You Know What Size You Need? Here are ...

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July 31st, 2025

The Do’s and Don’ts of Self Storage

Renting a storage unit is a smart way to free up space and stay organized, but using it the right way can make all the difference. Whether you’re moving, downsizing, or just decluttering, here are some essential do’s and don’ts to help you get the most out of your unit at Arcadia Self Storage. DO: Label Everything Clearly Label boxes on multiple sides so you can easily find what you need later. This is especially helpful if you’ll be accessing your unit frequently or storing items long-term. DON’T: Store Prohibited or Hazardous Items Avoid storing anything flammable, corrosive, or perishable. Items like gasoline, paint, food, or live animals are not allowed and can create safety risks. DO: Use Sturdy, Stackable Boxes Strong boxes make stacking easier and protect your belongings. Try to keep boxes uniform in size to maximize vertical space and keep your unit organized. DON’T: Overpack Boxes An overfilled box can break or injure you when lifting. Distribute weight evenly and use multiple boxes if needed. DO: Create an Aisle for Easy Access Leave a walkway down the middle of your unit so you can reach items in the back without unpacking everything. DON’T: Store Items Directly on the Floor Place items on pallets or use shelving to improve air circulation and protect your belongings from potential moisture. DO: Disassemble Large Furniture Take apart bed frames, tables, and other bulky items to save space and prevent damage. Keep all hardware in labeled bags. DON’T: Forget to Lock Your Unit Even in a secure facility like Arcadia Self Storage, it’s important to use a quality lock to give your items an extra layer of protection. DO: Make a List of Stored Items Keep a simple inventory of what’s in your unit. It’ll save time when you need to retrieve something—or when tax season rolls around! At Arcadia Self Storage, we’re here to make self storage easy, safe, and stress-free. Following these simple do’s and don’ts will help you protect your items and keep your storage unit in tip-top shape. Need help choosing the right unit or ...

ADMIN
June 20th, 2025

How Small Business Owners Use Self Storage to Stay Organized

Running a small business means wearing many hats—and keeping everything organized can be one of the toughest tasks. When your workspace is overflowing with inventory, supplies, equipment, or documents, it’s hard to stay efficient and focused. That’s where self storage comes in. At Arcadia Self Storage, we help local business owners create the space they need to grow and stay productive. Here’s how small businesses are using storage units to stay organized and ahead of the game: 1. Inventory Management Retailers, e-commerce shops, and resellers often deal with fluctuating inventory. A storage unit provides the perfect space to store extra stock, seasonal items, or bulk purchases—keeping your storefront or home office clutter-free. 2. Equipment Storage Contractors, landscapers, and event planners all rely on specialized tools and equipment. Instead of cramming these into a garage or office, they use self storage to keep everything secure, accessible, and out of the way when not in use. 3. Document Archiving Even in a digital age, many businesses still have important paperwork to keep. Self storage is ideal for storing files, tax records, or client documents that you don’t need daily but want to keep safe and organized. 4. Seasonal Supplies From holiday decorations and marketing materials to seasonal inventory, storage units help small business owners rotate supplies as needed—without overwhelming their primary workspace. 5. Flexibility During Transitions Whether you're expanding, downsizing, or remodeling, storage units offer a flexible, short-term solution to manage your business assets without losing productivity. 6. Affordable Workspace Extension Renting a larger office or retail space can be costly. Self storage offers an affordable alternative for businesses that need just a bit more room—without the long-term lease. 7. Easy Access When You Need It At Arcadia Self Storage, our convenient access hours and variety of unit sizes mean you can store what you need—and retrieve it when it matters. You're not locked into a rigid setup. Local, Secure, and Business-Friendly Arcadia Self Storage is proud to support local entrepreneurs with clean, secure, and budget-friendly storage options. Whether you’re running a one-person startup or a growing operation, ...

ADMIN
May 27th, 2025

Should You Store Family Heirlooms in Self Storage?

Family heirlooms hold more than just monetary value—they carry memories, stories, and sentimental importance. Whether it’s your grandmother’s china set, an antique dresser, or a collection of old photographs, you want to make sure these treasured items are well cared for. So, the big question is: Should you store family heirlooms in a self storage unit? The answer is yes—when done thoughtfully. Why Self Storage Can Be a Good Option Self storage offers a secure, out-of-the-way space when you need to free up room at home. It's ideal for heirlooms that you want to keep but don't use every day. Whether you're downsizing, moving, or simply organizing, a storage unit can give you peace of mind knowing your items are safely tucked away. Tips for Storing Heirlooms Safely 1. Pack with Care Use high-quality packing materials like bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy boxes. Wrap fragile items individually and use dividers for dishes and glassware. Label boxes clearly so you know what’s inside without having to dig through everything. 2. Use Protective Covers For furniture, use fabric covers, moving blankets, or sheets to guard against dust and scratches. Avoid using plastic covers, as they can trap moisture and cause damage over time. 3. Elevate Items Place items on shelves, pallets, or boards to keep them off the ground. This helps reduce the risk of exposure to dirt or moisture from the floor and allows for better air circulation. 4. Organize Thoughtfully Don’t overcrowd your unit. Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier ones, and keep delicate items where they won’t get bumped or crushed. Leave space to walk through or access items if needed. 5. Check In Occasionally It’s a good idea to visit your storage unit periodically. This gives you a chance to make sure everything is still in good shape and catch any potential issues early. Trust Arcadia Self Storage With What Matters Most At Arcadia Self Storage, we understand that you're not just storing stuff—you’re storing memories. Our secure, convenient facility makes it easy to ...

ADMIN
April 24th, 2025

Maximizing Your Storage Space: Tips for Organizing Your Unit at Arcadia Self Storage

Renting a self-storage unit is a great way to create extra space at home or work, but maximizing that space efficiently requires some planning. Whether you're storing seasonal items, moving, or simply decluttering, here are some top tips to help you get the most out of your storage unit at Arcadia Self Storage. 1. Choose the Right Storage Unit Size Before moving your belongings into a storage unit, assess how much space you’ll need. Arcadia Self Storage offers a variety of unit sizes, so selecting the right one ensures you’re not paying for unnecessary space while also preventing overcrowding. 2. Use Sturdy Boxes and Containers To keep your items safe and organized, use strong, stackable boxes or plastic bins. Label each box clearly to make retrieving items easier. Sturdy containers also help prevent damage and keep your storage unit looking neat. 3. Create an Aisle for Easy Access When loading your storage unit, arrange items strategically by placing frequently accessed items near the front. Leave a small aisle down the middle of the unit so you can reach items in the back without having to move everything around. 4. Utilize Vertical Space Stacking boxes and using shelves can help maximize your unit’s capacity. Heavier boxes should go on the bottom, with lighter ones on top. Shelving units can also be a great way to keep smaller items easily accessible. 5. Disassemble Large Furniture If you’re storing furniture, take apart pieces when possible. Remove legs from tables, take apart bed frames, and store headboards upright to save space. Use protective covers to keep furniture in good condition. 6. Protect Fragile Items Wrap breakable items in bubble wrap or packing paper and store them securely in marked boxes. Keep fragile items on top of heavier boxes to avoid damage. 7. Avoid Overpacking Boxes Overloaded boxes can become difficult to move and may break under pressure. Keep them at a manageable weight so they can be lifted safely when needed. 8. Keep a Storage Inventory List Maintaining a list of what’s inside your storage unit can save you time ...

ADMIN
March 20th, 2025

How a Storage Unit Can Make Moving Easier

Moving can be a stressful and time-consuming process, but renting a storage unit can help make it more manageable. At Arcadia Self Storage, we offer convenient and secure storage solutions to help streamline your move. Whether you’re downsizing, in between homes, or just need extra space, here’s how a storage unit can make your move easier. 1. Declutter Before Packing A storage unit gives you a place to temporarily store items you don’t need right away. By decluttering before packing, you can: Make your home more appealing if you’re selling it. Reduce the number of items you need to move on moving day. Stay organized by sorting through your belongings at your own pace. 2. Store Items During Transition Periods If there’s a gap between moving out of your old home and into your new one, a storage unit provides a secure space for your belongings. Instead of rushing to find temporary housing for your furniture and boxes, you can store them safely until you’re ready to move in. 3. Protect Valuable or Seasonal Items Certain items, like holiday decorations, extra furniture, or sports equipment, may not be needed immediately in your new home. A storage unit allows you to keep these items safe while focusing on unpacking essentials. 4. Make Unpacking More Manageable Rather than unloading everything at once, you can move items from your storage unit gradually. This allows you to set up your new home in an organized way without feeling overwhelmed by too many boxes. 5. Reduce Moving Day Stress With a storage unit, you have the flexibility to move items in stages. Whether you’re moving across town or to a new city, this approach: Helps avoid last-minute packing and rushing. Allows for a more organized and efficient move. Gives you extra time to settle into your new space. Make Your Move Easier with Arcadia Self Storage At Arcadia Self Storage, we provide clean, secure, and accessible storage solutions to help make your move as smooth as possible. Whether you need short-term or long-term storage, we have the space to fit your needs. Contact us ...

ADMIN
February 20th, 2025