Storage Space For A Cozy Two-Room Apartment

If you're looking to rent a storage unit for a two-room apartment, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the right space for your needs. First, take an inventory of the items you plan to store, including furniture, appliances, and any irregularly-shaped items. Next, estimate the number of boxes you'll need. Then, consider the size of the unit itself. Storage units typically range from 5'x5' to 10'x30', with the most popular size being 10'x10', which offers 100 square feet of space, or enough room to store the contents of a two-bedroom apartment. This size unit can typically accommodate items from two bedrooms, such as mattress sets, dressers, and nightstands, as well as an entire family room, including a sofa, chairs, and a coffee table. If you're looking to store larger items or the contents of multiple rooms, you may need a larger unit, such as a 10'x15' or 10'x20'. It's important to measure your items and compare them to the dimensions of the unit to ensure they will fit. Additionally, keep in mind that storage units typically have a ceiling height of 8 feet, so you can utilize vertical space for stacking boxes or storing taller items. By taking the time to assess your storage needs and choosing the right unit size, you can save time and money and make the most of your storage space.

How to measure the space you need

To work out how much storage space you need for a two-room apartment, there are several steps you can take.

Firstly, take an inventory of your belongings. Count all of your boxes and identify larger items of furniture. You can do this by room, making a written list of everything you plan to put in storage.

Next, double-check your home storage options. Make sure you've used all of your home's available storage space, including closets and the garage.

Then, calculate your space. Measure your belongings by length, width, and height to get the volume. You can then work out the total volume of your belongings and the square footage you will need.

Now you can pick a small, medium, or large storage unit size. A 10'x10' storage unit is often recommended for a two-bedroom apartment. This is around 100 square feet and is similar to a small room or half the space of a one-car garage. This size unit can hold the contents of a one-bedroom apartment with room to spare for some appliances or up to the contents of a two-bedroom apartment.

Finally, research specific measurements by checking with storage facilities to pick an exact size.

How to pick the right size storage unit

Take stock of your items

Make a list of all the items you plan to store, including furniture, appliances, and any irregular-shaped items that won't be packed in boxes. Estimate the number of boxes you will need and consider whether you have any large items that may require a bigger unit.

Measure your belongings

Calculate the amount of space your items will take up by measuring their length, width, and height. This will give you an estimate of the cubic feet of space needed. You can also put all your items in a pile and measure the dimensions of the pile.

Choose a small, medium, or large unit

Based on your measurements, decide whether you need a small, medium, or large unit. Small units hold up to 50 square feet, medium units hold up to 150 square feet, and large units can accommodate up to 300 square feet.

Research specific measurements

Check with storage companies to get specific measurements of their units and see what they recommend will fit inside. Compare these measurements with your own to ensure you choose a unit that is the right size.

Visit a storage facility

If possible, take some time to visit a storage facility and go inside the units to get a feel for the space. This will help you visualize your items in the unit and determine if it is the right size for your needs.

Understand storage unit dimensions

Most storage units have a standard ceiling height of 8 feet. Units are typically sized by length times width, giving you the estimated floor space in square footage. Remember that you can stack boxes and place furniture sideways to maximize space.

When in doubt, go bigger

If you are unsure between two sizes, it is often better to choose the larger option. This will give you some extra space to move around and access your items easily. It is also more cost-effective than renting an additional unit if you run out of space.

By following these steps, you can make an informed decision about the right size storage unit for your two-room apartment, ensuring you have sufficient space without paying for more than you need.

What to consider when storing furniture

When it comes to storing furniture, there are several factors to consider to ensure your items remain in good condition. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Storage Space Requirements

Firstly, it's important to determine the amount of space you'll need. This will depend on the number of rooms you're storing furniture for and the size of the furniture pieces. A good rule of thumb is to opt for a storage unit that is slightly larger than you think you need to avoid cramming and damaging your belongings. For a two-room apartment, a 10'x10' or 10'x15' storage unit should suffice.

Climate Control

It is highly recommended to choose a climate-controlled storage unit, especially if you're storing wooden or upholstered furniture. Extreme temperatures and high humidity can cause cracking, warping, or mould growth. Climate control helps maintain consistent temperatures and protect your furniture from moisture.

Proper Cleaning and Preparation

Before placing your furniture in storage, ensure it is thoroughly cleaned and dried. For wooden furniture, use mild soap and water, or a specialised wood cleaner. Upholstered items should be vacuumed and steam-cleaned, and treated with fabric-safe stain removers if necessary. Metal sections can be polished with a metal cleaner to remove oxidation.

Disassembly and Wrapping

Disassemble furniture where possible to make it more manageable and to save space. Remove drawers, take off legs, and detach TVs from stands. Keep small parts like screws and bolts in labelled bags attached to the corresponding furniture piece. Wrap furniture with breathable materials like cloths, blankets, or sheets to protect them from dust and moisture. Avoid using plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture and create condensation.

Placement and Stacking

When placing your furniture in the storage unit, avoid stacking items on top of each other, as this can cause internal or external damage, especially to older pieces. Leave a few inches of space between each piece to allow for airflow and access. Consider raising furniture off the floor using pallets or cinder blocks to protect them from potential flooding or moisture seepage.

Security and Accessibility

Choose a secure storage facility with proper alarms, locks, and digital recording cameras. Additionally, ensure the storage unit has sealed and painted floors to prevent moisture and dirt buildup. Organise your furniture strategically, leaving enough space to easily access and retrieve items when needed.

By following these considerations, you can effectively store your furniture and protect it from potential damage, ensuring it remains in good condition during its time in storage.

How to save money on storage

To save money on storage, it's important to first determine what storage space will serve a two-room apartment. A 10'x10' or 10'x15' self-storage unit is typically recommended for a two-bedroom apartment. Now, here are some ways to save money on storage:

Declutter and Downsize:

Before renting a storage unit, go through your items and decide what you truly need. Get rid of items you no longer use or need by selling them or donating them to charity. This will reduce the amount of storage space you require and can even provide some extra cash if you choose to sell.

Choose the Right Storage Type and Size:

Storage units come in a variety of types and sizes. The most common types are indoor, outdoor, standard, heated, and climate-controlled. Choose the type that best suits your needs; for example, a climate-controlled unit is ideal for storing sensitive items like quilts, photos, and art. As for size, carefully assess how much space you will need by creating an inventory of your items and estimating the number of boxes. You can use online size estimators or visit the storage facility to get a better idea.

Negotiate and Ask for Discounts:

Don't be afraid to negotiate with the storage facility. If the unit offered doesn't meet your needs, ask for a better deal. You can also inquire about discounts, as many storage companies offer promotions and deals, especially for long-term rentals.

Pack Efficiently and Maximize Space:

When preparing items for storage, pack them carefully and efficiently. Make use of shelving units and stack boxes to maximize vertical space. By optimizing your packing, you may be able to rent a smaller, more affordable unit.

Store Bulky Items Elsewhere:

If you have large, bulky items, consider storing them elsewhere. Ask family or friends if they have extra space, or lend these items to someone who can make use of them. This will reduce the amount of rented storage space you need.

Compare Prices and Partner Up:

Shop around and compare prices from different storage facilities in your area. Take advantage of online tools that allow you to search for storage units by zip code. Additionally, consider sharing a larger storage unit with friends or family. This can result in a significant cost reduction for everyone involved.

Take Advantage of Free Services:

Many storage companies offer free services like the use of a moving truck, hand trucks, or discounted packing supplies. Plan ahead and take advantage of these perks to reduce your overall moving and storage costs.

By following these tips, you can save money on storage for your two-room apartment while ensuring your items are safely and efficiently stored.

How to calculate the space you need

Calculating the storage space you need for a two-room apartment involves several steps, from taking inventory to measuring your items and the storage unit itself. Here is a detailed guide to help you determine the right amount of storage space:

Take Inventory of Your Belongings:

Begin by making a list of all the items you plan to store. This includes furniture, appliances, and any irregularly-shaped items that won't fit into boxes. It's important to be as comprehensive as possible in this step.

Estimate the Number of Boxes:

Try to approximate how many boxes you will need for the items that can be packed. This will give you a sense of how much space you'll require for box storage.

Measure Your Items:

To determine the volume of your belongings, you can use two methods: square feet or cubic feet. For square feet, multiply the length and width of your items. For cubic feet, multiply the length, width, and height. You can measure individual items or create a pile of items and measure the entire stack.

Choose a Storage Unit Size:

Storage units typically come in small, medium, or large sizes. Small units accommodate up to 50 square feet, medium units up to 150 square feet, and large units can hold up to 300 square feet. For a two-bedroom apartment, a medium-sized unit is often recommended, ranging from 100 to 150 square feet.

Research Specific Measurements:

After deciding on a size category, research specific storage unit measurements offered by facilities. Compare these measurements with your inventory and measurements to ensure they align.

Visit a Storage Facility:

If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to visit a storage facility and get a sense of the unit sizes in person. This can help you visualize your items in the unit and make a more informed decision.

Understand Your Storage Needs:

Consider whether you have unique storage requirements, such as climate-controlled storage for sensitive items or vehicle storage. This will influence the type and size of the unit you choose.

Calculate Cost-Effectiveness:

Storage facilities usually charge by the cubic foot of space used. Therefore, it's essential to balance your storage needs with cost-effectiveness. Opting for a larger unit than necessary might result in wasted space and unnecessary expenses.

By following these steps and carefully measuring your items and storage unit options, you can make an informed decision about the amount of storage space needed for your two-room apartment.

Frequently asked questions