Kitchen cabinets can be a major source of frustration if they are not properly organized, but on the other hand, a kitchen with sensible storage solutions can be a highly efficient machine. There are a number of different kitchen cabinet storage solutions that can make getting organized easier, but the type of storage you can use depends on how your kitchen is built. Whether you are looking for new storage for existing cabinets, planning a remodel for your kitchen, or even building a house from the ground up, having the right solutions for kitchen storage is important. Here, we’ll go over a few of the different types of kitchen storage systems so you can decide which is right for you.

Kitchen cabinet storage systems can be built into virtually anything, from drawers to shelves to counters. Thus, knowing where you need additional storage and organization in your kitchen is a big help in deciding where to put these systems. For example, if you find that you need more space in cabinets, common solutions would include a lazy susan, door-mounted organizers, dividers, and base cabinet organizers. Lazy susans are essentially surfaces that rotate, allowing you to reach things in the back without moving objects out of the way.

Door mounted kitchen cabinet storage organizers are hung from the back of cabinet doors, so that when the door is opened they are facing out. While they do take up space in the cabinet’s interior, having an additional shelving system on the door allows you to reach twice the number of objects inside the cabinet. Base cabinet organizers are basically sliding racks that come out of the cabinet, with different levels available for varying sizes of pots, pans, and so on. Cabinets can also be converted into various other kitchen devices, such as pull-out waste disposal bins and baskets for storing large numbers of vegetables.

Kitchen cabinet storage devices can help make things a lot easier around the kitchen, and with a combination of helpful kitchen storage units you can turn a cluttered, inefficient kitchen into a chef’s best friend. Obviously, it is easier to put together kitchen cabinets and their corresponding storage units if you are building a fresh setup, but it is also possible to convert existing cabinets using everyday hardware supplies. Some types of storage are easier to install than others, however, so bear in mind the type of storage you are using.

A great infograph about the many characteristics of hoarders, and how the hoarding psychology works. If you have a lot of extra items don’t keep them, but put them in storage. If you have anymore questions, please check out our storage guide.

Via: Psychology Degree

When boating season is over and it’s time to store your boat, there are a variety of options you can choose from.  There are different levels of protection and different price points available to fit all sorts of needs.  We’ll review some of the boat storage options and the characteristics of each so you can make the right choice for storing your boat.

STORING BOATS AT YOUR RESIDENCE:

If you have space in a heated garage or building (above 50°F) where you live; use it.  Free and convenient win out over anything else.  You can also store your boat outside on your property (if your subdivision or village allows) but there are some different winterization rules that apply if you live in a colder climate.  Make sure you check with your boats manufacturer for winterization and engine prepping  directions.  If you don’t, something catastrophic like a cracked engine block can be the result.  If you can store your boat outside make sure you put a tarp on the boat to protect it from the elements.  There is also a new option for protection called “shrink wrapping” where plastic film is wrapped around the boat and form fitted to protect the boat from the elements.  (Since air circulation is important vents are cut into the film to enable air to circulate).  This option can be purchased at most boat dealerships and marinas.  If you do store on a trailer at your residence, make sure the tires are properly inflated, covered, and the trailer is moved slightly from time to time to avoid flat spots on tires. It is even better if the boat can be put on blocks.  The outside option is good for smaller fishing or pleasure boats without lots of balls and whistles, the inside type of boat storage is good for any boats that will fit.

RACK STORAGE FOR BOATS:

Rack storage at a boat storage facility is a good option for security because the boats are suspended in racks.  The racks are underneath a roof and either tarped or shrink wrapped for protection from the elements.  This option is a little less convenient than other boat storage options because you have to work around the storage facilities schedule and the travel to and from the facility has to be taken into account.  This option is usually the one of the cheapest forms of storage that’s not at your home.  People with ski boats, have limited space on their property and neighborhood restrictions often use this type of boat storage. 

SELF STORAGE FACILITIES

Self storae facilities can offer both inside and outside storage ranging from open air to inside climate controlled boat storage.  Obviously, the higher level of security and climate control, the higher the price.

MARINA BOAT STORAGE:

Storing your boat at the marina your boat out of is a very convenient option but it’s definitely more expensive than most other options.  Charges are generally based on the size of the boat or slip and directly proportional to the location and popularity of the marina.  Services like winterization, mechanical services, electric connections, TV and computer access, fuel, and restrooms are often provided, so it’s really a one stop shop.  From a price standpoint though, this option is usually for more expensive boats with deeper pocketed owners, but if you can afford a $75,000 and up boat, you can (and should) take the best care of it.

These storage options give some direction on types of boat storage.  As always, look at your needs and your budget and match it up to what’s available for boat storage in your area.

This article isn’t going to delve into the technical side of prepping a gun for short or long term storage, it’s going to cover some of the different options for gun storage and some basic gun storage safety tips.

The 4 major types of gun storage are gun racks, gun cases, gun cabinets and gun safes.  Each type of gun storage has different characteristics and price points.  We’ll cover each with an ascending level of safety and security.

GUN RACKS:

Gun racks are mainly for display purposes and offer the least amount of security.  Some do have a feature to lock the weapons but wouldn’t be the choice to protect children from the guns or guns from a burglar.  Most of these are less than $75.00.  This application could be good for a serious sportsman and gun handler with the weapons stored in a secure locked room.  Not the best choice for a household with young children or teenagers.

GUN CASES:

Gun cases are small and portable for transporting or storing either handguns or rifles.  Most are locking and made of durable materials like aluminum or hard plastic.  The security challenge with cases is that a burglar could easily load up gun cases and work on unlocking them somewhere other than your residence.  Prices usually range from under $50.00 to over $200.00 depending on how secure the case is and how many guns its designed to store.

GUN CABINETS:

Gun cabinets are what most people think of when they think of gun storage.  A gun cabinet is usually wood (but can be made of metal) and is as much of a piece of furniture as it is a secure gun storage system.  Most have a locking door on the front of the cabinet, but also have glass in the door to display the guns.  This looks good but unfortunately makes the cabinet less secure.  Many gun cabinets are under $300.00 but depending on size and level of custom detail they can be hundreds more.  These also might not be a he best for a household with children or teenagers.

GUN SAFES:

Gun Safes are the most widely accepted method of gun storage because they offer the most security by far.  They can be purchased fireproof (filled with concrete) and/or water proof and like any other safe are very heavy (up to 800lbs) with a steel doors and locking systems (combination or electronic key pad).  They can be purchased to hold many guns (36 or more) and often have adjustable internal shelves for handgun cases, ammo, cleaning supplies, or other gun related equipment.  With this level of security though, comes a price tag. Gun safes can cost up around $2000.00 and can be a challenge to move and set if going up or down any stairs.  This is the best level of security to keep out of kids and burglars. 

Hopefully one of these gun storage options has the right application for you, just look at your security needs (kids etc, budget and space to be dedicated for your gun storage) and choose the best fit.

When it comes to safety tips there are 3 that really stick out as the most important when it comes to safety. 

Don’t leave guns around the house like in a night stand, under a mattress, in a desk, etc.  This is an accident waiting to happen. 

Don’t store ammunition in the same place that you store your guns.  Make sure both are separate and both and locked.

If you choose to store your gun with a full magazine of ammunition, do not store it with a round in the chamber. This can help avoid accidents as well.

Like with everything else, use caution, and do research when making a gun storage choice.

When placing your items into a storage unit or storage facility, you want to make sure you will be able to come back to your items in the condition you left them, and not have to worry that they are in a safe place.  Depending on what region you are in or what type of storage unit you are looking at, storage security options will vary.

Remember, no alarm system or security system is 100% secure, but there are different options your facility may offer, and certain things you can do to protect yourself.  For instance, it’s always a good idea to have an extra padlock or security lock on your actual unit. The facility’s security may be tight, but you want to make sure you goods are extra protected.

Security Options To Check Out:

• Check to see if your storage facility is lighted.  A well lit storage unit is important, especially if you need access after hours or at night.
• Check to see if your facility is a fenced in storage facility, or if there is a code needed to get into the gate of the facility.  Some outdoor facilities will have a security guard or guard dogs.
• Check to see if there are surveillance cameras in the facility, and where they are located to make sure your storage space is secure, and that cameras are monitoring who is accessing the storage units.
• Check to see if the storage unit is open 24 hours, or if there are certain open and close times.
• Staff on Duty- Check to see if there is staff present at the time of accessing your storage unit.
• Manager on Site-Some storage companies will have a manager running their storage facility, in case of any questions or problems.
• Check to see, if an indoor storage facility if there is a burglar alarm.  Some facilities have door alarms, motion detectors, and even alarms on your individual storage unit door.

When It Comes To Deliveries:

• Do trucks have easy access to facility in the storage facility? Is someone present or is the site unsecured and unmanned?  Will an attendant be there to accept deliveries or does someone need to be present on your behalf?  Are deliveries limited to certain times of the day, and can they go directly to the storage unit, or do they need to check in with an employee or management?

Remember, when it comes to having a secured storage space there are many security questions you can check into.  You need to determine the value of your goods to be stored, the accessibility you need, and the level of service required.  You can also check with the facility to see what different types of security options are available.

Like everything else in the storage arena, do plenty of research on secured self storage facilities to get the right fit!

Depending on your region of where you live, one thing you must consider when storing your valuables is what kind of temperature or weather will there be while you are storing, how long you will need your storage space for, whether climate controlled storage is the best option for you.

Climate controlled storage facilities can protect artwork, documents, wood, leather, electronics, fabrics, and other personal and business possessions.  If you live in an area where humidity is high, too much moisture can cause mold, pathogens, bacteria, & rotting if the storage space is poorly ventilated or  storage temperatures are unregulated.  Just because your storage unit facility claims they have temperature controlled units does not mean your valuable items like artwork, wine, and antiques will be protected, you should know the variables the unit goes through and what temperatures and humidity levels your goods are stored at.  When renting a climate controlled storage space, there is usually an increased fee for these units as this is an additional expense your storage facility has to maintain.

Climate controlled facilities are usually in a finished building with indirect cooling and heating protection, and usually offer greater levels of protection against flood, dirt, and dust, than your average storage facility.  Temperature levels usually do not fall below freezing or rise above 90 degrees F.

If you live in extremely hot temperatures, or have items that need to be kept in cool temperatures, refrigerated cold storage units may be the best option for you.  Temperatures are usually kept between 50-80°F, with the average humidity about 50%.  These units are generally used to protect artifacts, paintings, food storage, and other cold storage items.  Some cold storage facilities are sometimes underground to keep better control of the climate and also assist with prevention of moisture and dew to your items.  Most cold storage units will offer additional security to prevent access to your storage space.  Underground cold storage can also protect from man-made or natural disasters and can also offer more protection from storms, fires, floods.  The security levels systems are usually maintained with video surveillance, security systems, fire alarms, and metal doors.  Another type of cold storage unit is a portable storage unit, which is used to provide good cooling systems with effective insulation.  Some portable storage units can be built to suit a custom size room, can be kept indoors or outdoors, or may be at an off site storage site.  Whether its food, or other items that need to be kept in the portable cold storage units, they are designed for needs which can range from -15°-75°F.  Security levels may vary for these types of storage units depending on where you have them, and if on personal property what type of security you have onsite.  Other items that should be considered for cold storage would be wine, you can reach storing wine to get more tips.

In cases of severe freezing temperatures, or extreme cold, you may want to consider a heated storage facility.  This can help insure your items will not get damp, or collect mold/mildew.  When humidity is too high liquid droplets can form in your storage items, and cause them to get warped or get filled with mildew.  You also want to make sure your furniture items stay dry.  Some heated storage facilities will offer indirect heat instead of heating units in each unit, and may include using radiant floors or radiant heat which can be useful for storing antique furniture and other valuables.  Heated storage facilities generally maintain a consistent temperature so your items do not go below 50-55°F.  This can be useful for storing books, records, electronics, leather, wood, music, clothing, pharmaceuticals, vehicles, boats, motorcycles, and other valuable items.  When looking for climate controlled storage, know what your belongings need to maintain their value and condition, if unsure, you can always check with an expert to see how an individual piece would best be stored.

When it comes to choosing your storage, you must first determine which option is the best choice for you for storing your goods.  We have provided some general information on outdoor storage units, indoor storage units, and drive up storage units so you can figure out which best suits your needs.

OUTDOOR STORAGE UNIT:

• Usually the cheapest option for storage.
• Generally the size of a parking space.
• This is generally used to store RV’s, work trucks, boats, seasonal items.
• There may be electrical hookups for recreational vehicles available, as well as sanitary stations for toilets.
• Only good if your items are not temperature sensitive, and don’t need to be stored in a climate controlled storage facility.
• Security is minimal, fences, gates, but anyone inside the storage can have access to your items.

INDOOR STORAGE UNIT:

• Generally the most expensive option, but you do get the highest level of service with this option.
• Stored inside a building structure, so not outdoor storage unit.
• Sometimes are inside elevator units if not all on main level.
• Can be climate controlled storage unit, or non-climate controlled storage unit.
• Usually a variety of sizes to choose from, can range from 10x5x8, 10x10x8, 10x15x8, 10x20x8, or 10x30x8 is generally standard size units.
• Usually need dollies for easiest access inside and outside of unit (most storage facilities will have carts to use).
• Good for electronics, antiques, artwork, furniture, other household goods, etc.
• Most secure option, and well lit up areas to access units.
• May have restrictions on access-hours, and days depending on facility.

DRIVE UP STORAGE UNIT:

• Usually mid range on pricing, not the cheapest, not the most expensive option to choose from.
• Most feature roll up door.
• Can pull the vehicle right up to, this is very convenient for loading and unloading vehicles.
• Can come with climate controlled storage options depending on the storage facility.
• Most commonly used amongst customers.
• Can store equipment, cars, household goods, tools, appliances, supplies, business stock or inventory, etc.
• Companies that need stock but have no warehouse can utilize this type of storage and expand and contract as needed (flexible).

Remember when choosing your storage facility, there are a few options you can choose from, depending on what your needs are.  Check with your facility, see what their legal terms are, access times in and out, security measures, insurance options, and liability of the facility.  Get everything in writing, and if you’re not sure if an item should or should not be stored, don’t forget to check with the United States Department of Transportation, Hazardous Material Information Center (HMIX) at 1-800-467-4922.

If you live in an area where temperatures are extreme, from freezing to excessive heat, or if you have items that are valuable and are temperature sensitive, climate controlled storage may be the best option for you when it comes to storing your business or household goods.  Remember items like electronics, wines, furs, documents, wood, leather, and much more can be destroyed if not kept in the proper temperature setting.  If you live in a geographical area that is generally humid, your items can warp, crack, or split from moisture if the temperature is too hot or cold.  Bacteria, mold, and other species can grow on your items over certain lengths of time if not properly stored.  Bees, Wasps, Mice, etc can also be attracted to areas that are not a climate controlled storage environment. 

Many self storage facilities offer climate controlled storage units, that also have humidity control, this is also very important.   Temperatures should generally range between 58-80 degrees,  avoiding freezing levels, and anything in excess of 80 degrees Fahrenheit.  It’s best to check with the storage facility to make sure temperatures are constant and not fluctuating more than 5-10 degrees at a time.  The temperature in most climate controlled storage facilities is generally maintained by indirect heat, rather than heaters, or air conditioners in each unit.   The big thing in any climate controlled self storage unit is that the temperature and humidity is consistent.

Along with protection for you furniture, remember a climate controlled storage facility can ease the process of moving whether it is a scorcher outside, or freezing with below zero temperatures.  Climate controlled self storage can be a little more comfortable for whoever is doing the moving.  So to recap, check with the storage facility first, find out what options they have for climate control, humidity levels, and restrictions before you make your self storage decision.

• Few people have a building or garage large enough to house their boat or RV and outdoor storage somewhere else on your property can be a mess (if in the grass) or awkward (if the boat or RV is in the way).
• Many villages, associations, apartment complexes, condo buildings, etc  have restrictions against using your driveway for long term boat storage or long term RV storage.  Even if it is legally ok, for the sake of convenience, it’s a good idea to find a suitable storage facility to store your boat or RV.
• Security for your boat or RV is considerably better at a specialized RV or Boat Storage facility because of security fences and quite often the use of security cameras and key pad entry access.

Just like storage for trucks and cars, storage for your boat or RV comes in different price points and different levels of services offered.

 Open air Boat and RV Storage:

 This is the cheapest option for storage and gives, the least protection from elements.  A cover for the boat or RV is recommended and service (or “winterizing” in cold climates) is very important to prevent damage to water lines, waste system etc.  Check your manufacturer for exact instructions but water lines should always be drained back,  flushed, and special antifreeze (not car antifreeze) added to protect the system.  As for covers, there are also different types of covers like vented covers that help circulate air flow, Tyvek covers that repel 100% of the suns UV rays, or covers that are zippered and form fit to your boat or RV.  Tire covers are also highly recommended to protect RV tires and boat trailer tires from the sun and dry rot.

Covered Outside Boat and RV Storage:

This is very similar to open air but has the added protection of a cover over the top.  This option is more expensive usually than open air, but less expensive than an indoor storage facility, and still requires a cover for protection.

Inside Boat and RV Storage:

This is the most expensive option, and provides the highest level of protection from the elements.  Some storage units can be 10-15 feet longer than your boat or RV, so additional equipment can be stored at the same location.  Some storage facilities even offer electrical plug-ins and sanitary stations for portable toilets. 

Remember, depending on your budget, regional climate, and storage requirements, the use of one of these types of boat and RV storage can be tailored to fit your needs.

There are a few different types of vehicle storage; so the first thing you have to do is figure out what level of service and what price point you need.  There are substantial differences between the needs of a out of season landscaping vehicle, and a vintage muscle car.  The following are the different types of storage for vehicles and the aspects of each.

OUTDOOR VEHICLE STORAGE:

This can be either covered or uncovered and can be either paved or gravel.  This option is the least expensive, has the least security and usually is the best fit for short term storage or when condition of the vehicle isn’t a concern.  Many times people who choose this option purchase a cover to protect the vehicle. 

INDOOR GARAGE SPACE:

This is another option for storing a vehicle.  This option costs a little more, has more security, and the vehicle is inside out of the elements but not usually climate controlled.  There is generally garage door access.

CLIMATE CONTROLLED VEHICLE STORAGE:

This is the most expensive and most secure.  It’s an indoor storage facility, kept between 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit and is the best fit for vintage or expensive vehicles that need the highest level of service.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING VEHICLE STORAGE:

1.  Are there size restrictions in the facility that you choose?  Generally, the outside vehicle storage facilities don’t have the height or width restrictions that the 2 indoor options do.  Many times garage door height is a factor.
2.   How often do you need to take the vehicle in and out of the storage?  If the vehicle is to be stored and left for months it doesn’t matter, if you need to get at the vehicle regularly ease of in and out access and hours of operation of the facility are two important things to check.
3. See if the vehicle storage facility charges monthly or if charges can be prorated to the day or week.  Also, see what the facilitys’ liability is, if there is any damage to your vehicle.

Like other storage, storing a vehicle is a prospect that should be tailored to each individual need.  Due diligence and some shopping is a good idea.