It's not hard to put off a big job like decluttering your home, but this is a project that's actually good for you. Nearby storage units in Philadelphia, PA, make it easy to stay motivated, clean up the house, and enjoy these 10 healthy benefits

10 Benefits of Keeping Your Home Free of Clutter

You're Less Anxious

When things pile up all around you, it feels overwhelming. Decluttering your space creates a calming sense of order. Eliminating visual noise eliminates anxiety.

It Increases Creativity

All the rooms in your cluttered home look like overcrowded storage units. It makes you step back, think, and figure out creative ways to establish control and stay on track.

You Build Confidence

You're making decisions and solving problems. Cleaning up the house puts you in charge of the situation. The work teaches you that you can handle tough jobs.

You Save Time

Imagine not digging through messy drawers for that one important thing. Picture breezing through closets as you reorganize clothes. A decluttered house is a big time-saver.

It's Easier to Concentrate

You don't realize how badly clutter creeps into your peripheral senses until it's gone. A clean home sets you free to concentrate on things you care about.

You Set a Good Example

When you clean up clutter, you're showing the kids how it's done. When you get them involved in the process, you're helping them develop organizational skills.

Everyone Is Safer

Too many boxes on closet shelves turn into avalanches. Kids' toys all over the floor turn into tripping hazards. Decluttering helps your family stay safe.

Everyone Breathes Easier

Clutter collects dust, dander, pet hair, and insect debris. Getting rid of it keeps airborne pathogens out of your HVAC system. You and your family breathe easier.

You Can Do Good for Others

Not all clutter belongs in the trash. Donate items you don't need or want any longer to local charities. Area organizations are always grateful for items like clothes, books, and even old knickknacks.

Feeling Positive Feels Great

You've taken control. You've made a huge difference. Clutter doesn't rule your home anymore. Enjoy the sense of accomplishment. You deserve every ounce of pride you feel for taking care of a very big job.

We're Happy to Help

When you're ready to conquer clutter, our Safeguard Self Storage team in Philadelphia, PA, is happy to help. We're always here for you with storage units sized for every type of clutter cleanup project.

You daydream about power walks across Ben Franklin Bridge and speed biking along Cobbs Creek. You imagine sunny yoga sessions under blue skies on the Schuylkill Banks.

Once the weather warms up, you can exercise outdoors and stash excess equipment in self storage. Our Philadelphia, PA winters don't last forever, so start planning now for packing up the home gym and taking your workouts outside.

Prep and Store Like a Pro

Break out the microfiber cloth, give everything a good cleaning, and size up how much storage space you'll need. Check out square footage options online to determine which storage units are the best fit for your fitness gear. Use these six power tips to prep and store workout equipment like a pro.

Follow Your Treadmill Manual

Reference your owner's manual for details on cleaning the treadmill motor and lubricating parts. Keep it covered in storage, and resist the temptation to stack boxes on its walking belt.

Detail Your Stationary Bike

A little detailing keeps stationary bike parts stable in self storage. Apply spray lubricant to the chain, handlebars, seat posts, pop-pins, and pivots. Don't forget the flywheel where it makes contact with brake pads.

Clean Weights Carefully

Clean metal weights with warm water and dish soap. Polish chrome surfaces with WD-40, and let everything thoroughly dry. Climate-controlled storage is always best for metal weights.

Balance Heavy Kettlebells

Their heavy weight and round shape can make kettlebells unstable in storage. Keep them safely balanced on racks and trees designed specifically for this type of strength-training gear.

Stabilize Balance Balls

Climate-controlled storage units protect balance balls from temperature fluctuations and high humidity. Keep them stable by nesting them in piles of old sheets away from other items with sharp edges or corners.

Round Up the Small Stuff

Ab wheels, pull-up bars, jump ropes, and resistance bands don't take up much room, but why leave them underfoot? You're finally recovering floor space, so round up the small stuff and stash it in storage. Use freestanding hat racks to organize ropes and bands.

We're Here Regardless of the Season

While you wait for warm weather, keep on working out and daydreaming. You'll get to move your gear and reclaim your home turf before you know it. We're here to make it happen with seven locations and the best storage units in Philadelphia, PA. Regardless of the season, you can always count on us here at Safeguard Self Storage. Reserve a unit online today!

It's time to dash into the excitement of another wonderful Yuletide season. Every year, Philly gifts us with incredible shopping opportunities. As you make plans for stuffing stockings, remember these four awesome things about holiday shopping in Philadelphia, PA.

1. Philly-Centric Favorites Are Classics

Our favorite Philly shopping traditions are true retail classics. The players may change, but the holiday magic always stays the same in these venerable venues. 

• Love Park's Christmas Village: Immerse yourself in the Old World charm of one of the city's best outdoor markets.
• Rittenhouse Row's Holiday Fashion Crawl: Shop with upscale swagger, and mingle with local fashionistas.
• Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market: Connect with local crafters, artists, designers, and even confectionaries.

2. Acres of Retail Offer Everything

Get all of your holiday shopping done under one brightly decorated roof and still have time to visit with Santa. It's fun to join the holiday crowds at Philly's merriest malls. 

• Shops at Liberty Place: This dome-topped landmark is home to more than 60 shops and lots of festive events.
• Macy's Center City: Fulfill your retail dreams surrounded by city history and stunning architecture.
• King of Prussia Mall: Conquer your gift list while browsing 400 fabulous stores north of downtown.

3. Artisan Shopping Always Rocks

Venture beyond boutiques on a quest for the unique. Explore these indie outlets for one-of-a-kind gifts, and discover holiday shopping that really channels your originality. 

• Midtown Village: Indulge your love for everything vintage in the incredible shops on Antique Row.
• Reading Terminal Market: Take care of your gift list and your grocery list at the country's oldest farmers market.
• South Philly Handmade Brigade: Cool rules in this warehouse dedicated to handcrafted originals.

4. Self Storage Wraps It All Up 

Self storage is the perfect place to hide packages. Gift boxes, ribbons, and bows don't clutter closets. Set up a small table, and you even have a staging area for wrapping presents like a real Secret Santa. Storage units belong on everyone's holiday shopping list, and they're great for staying organized year-round too.

We're Here With Holiday Cheer 

If you shop until you merrily drop, we understand. When you need space for tinsel, toys, and tree stands, we can help. With several Safeguard locations in Philadelphia, PA, we're here for you with plenty of storage units and lots of holiday cheer.

It seems like winter break only began yesterday, and now students must, again, focus on classes. For those attending Temple or other surrounding colleges in Philadelphia, PA, now's the time to start the new semester off right. Safeguard Self Storage wants to help students get off on the right foot this school season.

10 Ways to Getting Better Grades

1. Get Up, and Show Up

It's hard to get up after sleeping in during the break. The best way to learn the material and score better grades is to get up and go to class. If you can sacrifice your nightlife a few days a week, waking up early will be much easier.

2. Take It Head On

College is difficult. If you slack off, your grades will fall much quicker. Take charge, and put forth the effort – it will be worth it.

3. Know Your Limits

Overloading is never a good idea. Only take the hours you need. Otherwise, you might take on too much and get overwhelmed.

4. Research Correctly

Thank goodness for the internet. Learn some Google search tips to find what you’re looking for more efficiently. And skip out on the Wikipedia reference.

5. Invest In a Planner

With so much going on at college, it's easy to forget prior commitments or specific details of events. Get a calendar, and keep track of everything.

6. Choose Your Priorities

It's fun to hang out with friends, but if you have an important test the next day, skip the party. Figure out which parties you can go to and which you’ll have to give a rain check for.

7. Take Notes

Whether you work best on paper or on your computer, take notes to retain information. While writing notes is important, it’s not important to write down every word. Figure out how you learn best and only write down what you need to jog your memory. Class will be a lot less stressful, and you’ll actually remember more than you think.

8. Stay Positive

Having a positive attitude goes a long way. If you believe in yourself and your ability, you'll have the confidence to make better grades.

9. Use Your Textbook

Textbooks are dense with information and hard to read. But often, your professor chooses the textbook because it will actually help you grasp the concepts. Studying really does help.

10. Declutter your dorm.

A messy room causes distractions, and for many, causes environmental anxiety. Clean up your room and designate a specific place for studying. You’ll learn better in a fresh space.

Become the Best Student You Can Be

One of the best ways to start off the semester right is to organize your space. Consider moving your clutter to local storage units, where your items will be easily accessible. Our storage units in Philadelphia, PA come in a variety of sizes for packing away your clutter and helping to reduce your distractions this semester, so you can focus on getting your schoolwork done. 

 In Philadelphia, you never really know what kind of winter you are going to get. Some years it’s milder, but still others bring severe snowstorms. If you're making a move in the winter season, you need to be properly prepared. Use these moving tips from Safeguard Self Storage to ensure a safe and efficient move into your new Philadelphia home – and use storage units when unpredictable winter weather threatens to ruin your move. 

Check the Weather

Because of the inconsistency of Philadelphia winters, you’ll want to stay updated on the weather forecast. Check the days that you plan to move, and make sure there aren’t any impending storms on the horizon. You’ll want to avoid winter storms at all costs. Also, check the road conditions and traffic reports. Choose a safe route that has low traffic to ensure your safety.

Make Sure You Have Help

Recruit some friends and family to help you with the move. The more people you have, the less time you’ll spend moving out of your old home and into your new one. Whether they owe you a favor or you bribe them with payment, you’ll want to round up any able participants – and you’ll want to do it early so there’s time to plan and arrange schedules.

Clear a Path

Snow and ice covered paths are already a danger during regular transit. When carrying and moving belongings, this equation can lead to injuries. Clear the driveway and walkway at both your present home and your new one. Get rid of any and all potential tripping hazards to ensure a safe and efficient move.

Find a Temporary Home for Pets

Pets can get underfoot, so it’s best to find a temporary home for them during move in day. Either find a place to board them or send them to a friend’s house. If you can’t find a temporary home away from home for them, try locking them in a room of your new house. We’d suggest a bathroom since tile and linoleum floors make it easy to clean up any mishaps.

Pack Winter Gear Last and Unload it First

Don’t pack any winter gear that you’ll need for move-in day. Any winter gear you do pack – that you won’t be using on that day – should be packed last and unpacked first. You’ll most likely be making use of these belongings sooner rather than later, so you’ll want to have them readily on hand in your new home.

Be Careful With Temperature-Sensitive Items

Any temperature-sensitive items can be damaged in the extreme cold. This includes items like house plants and china pieces that can crack or get fine lines in extreme cold. Take special precautions with these items, such as packing them last or transporting them in your car rather than the back of a moving truck.

Dress in Layers

Keep yourself warm by dressing in layers. You’re likely to work up a sweat while moving, so having layers that are easy to remove helps you regulate your body temperature.

Protect Your New Home

Trekking in and out of your new home all day can lead to tracking dirt and grime in with you. Place towels and rugs down on the floors to keep them clean. You can also keep towels and rags on hand to wipe down your shoes before going inside your new home.

Prepare for Emergencies

Winter weather can be unpredictable and you’ll want to have some emergency supplies on hand in case your move in day gets ruined by a winter storm. If your new home is a long distance from your current home, consider investing in nearby storage unit to make the transition an easy one. You can move your belongings to a nearby Philadelphia storage unit and unpack periodically rather than taking it on in one day.

Turn – or Keep – Utilities On

Leave the utilities on in your current home until move out day, and make sure to have the utilities turned on in your new home before move in day. You won’t want to be stuck in either home without your utilities in winter – especially heat.

Self Storage Amenities You Will Need

When storing during the winter month’s you will want to select a storage facility that offers Climate Controlled Units. These spaces are heated during the cold winter and air conditioned during the warn summer and designed to protect items from temperature fluctuations while in storage. Also look for storage locations with drive-in loading areas to keep you and your items safe from the elements while loading and unloading. Security items such as computer controlled access, unit door alarms and digital video recording will provide you with peace of mind while your items are in storage.

Moving in winter might not be ideal, but for those looking to get a good deal in the slower season for home sales, it can be a great option. Make sure your move is a good experience by utilizing these tips and Safeguard storage units to ease your transition. Find a unit near you today and start making your move!

As people gather throughout the United States to celebrate the birth of American independence, Safeguard Self Storage wants to reflect on the events that led up to this great day, and the city where it all started. Whether you're grilling out with family or enjoying the local fireworks show, let us take some time to remember the day the U.S. declared independence from Great Britain – and why Philadelphia, PA is one very important city.

The Birth of a Nation

The Revolutionary War started in April 1775, at which time few colonists wanted complete independence from Great Britain. Any colonist who wanted complete independence where considered radical. By mid-1776, many colonists favored independence due to growing hostility. The Second Continental Congress met on June 7 at the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia and Richard Henry Lee made a motion calling for independence. While the consideration of Lee's resolution was postponed on June 11, a five-man committee was appointed to draft a formal statement declaring independence from Great Britain. This team consisted of: Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Roger Sherman, Benjamin Franklin and Robert. R. Livingston.

The Declaration of Independence

Lee's resolution of independence was voted in by a near-unanimous vote on July 2. The Second Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, which was written mainly by Jefferson. Even though the vote for independence took place on July 2, the birth of American independence was celebrated on the 4th of July. John Adams believed that the birth American independence should be celebrated on July 2, and even declined invitations to attend July 4th events as protest.

Copies of the Declaration of Independence were distributed on July 5, and The Pennsylvania Evening Post was the first newspaper to print the document on July 6. The first public readings of the Declaration were held on July 8 in Philadelphia's Independence Square – accompanied by band music and the ringing of the bells.

Early Celebrations of Independence Day

As the Declaration of Independence spread across the country, people celebrated with bonfires, firing of canons and muskets, and concerts. The first annual celebration of independence took place in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777; they adjourned Congress and celebrated with bells, fireworks and bonfires. These celebrations eventually spread throughout the country, and observations became more common when the War of 1812 ended. In 1781, Massachusetts became the first state to mark July 4th an official state holiday. Congress made July 4th a federal holiday in 1870; this was expanded in 1941 to be a paid holiday for all federal employees. 

Safeguard Celebrates Independence

While the political importance may have declined since the birth of Independence Day, this national holiday remains an important symbol of patriotism. As you fire up the grill this holiday and gather with friends and family, it's important to know what you're celebrating. When the fireworks die down and the parade route ends, remember that Safeguard Self Storage offers security, stability and independence from clutter all year. Celebrate your individual independence by using self storage to serve your needs. Find a storage facility near you and get ready to celebrate year-round.

People generally combine households for happy reasons, with marriage being the most common example. Even during such a happy time, however, there are logistical issues that must be addressed. Most notably, you need to figure out what to do with double the stuff.

There are often many duplicate items, from small stuff like cookware to big things like appliances and furniture. Instead of rushing to unload unneeded, redundant things, consider using Philadelphia, PA self storage as a temporary holding place for them. This will reduce stress and allow you to make more effective decisions, and enjoy the excitement of living with your significant other.

Assess the Situation

Consider the size and layout of the home before deciding what to do with duplicate items. If you're buying an entirely new, much larger place, you may not need to store quite as much stuff in Philadelphia storage units. On the other hand, if one person is moving in with the other, or if the new place is the same size or smaller than the previous two residences, odds are that you will need to unload considerable amounts of stuff. By finding the right Philadelphia, PA self storage facility, you won't feel pressured to make these decisions quickly, and you'll be able to lay out your new place more effectively.

What Stays? What Goes?

Deciding what to keep and what to unload when combining households can be tricky. Sometimes, it even becomes contentious. The process will be less stressful for all involved if Safeguard Self Storage Philadelphia storage units are used. You can make quick, initial decisions to simply get the ball rolling and store the unneeded stuff until the dust settles and you can make more rational choices about what should be sold, donated, thrown away or kept.

Simplify Your Life with Philadelphia PA Self Storage

The last thing you need when starting a new life with someone is to argue about inanimate objects. The best and most diplomatic approach is to temporarily keep duplicate or unneeded belongings at your neighborhood Safeguard Self Storage until more strategic decisions can be made. This lifts pressure from everyone's shoulders and allows you both to begin your new life together on the right foot. Safeguard Self Storage has seven conveniently located self storage facilities in Philadelphia to choose from. Get started on your self storage hunt today and ease the transition to cohabitation.

When your kids go back to school, organization is the key to managing the family. Once school starts, you'll have busy schedules to keep track of since most kids participate in numerous extracurricular activities. Parents must also deal with homework due dates, overflowing backpacks and making sure their child brings the class snack on the right day.

Schedule Organization Tips

Consider tracking everyone's schedules and responsibilities on a large whiteboard since you can hang it in your kitchen where each family member is likely to see it. Purchase one with a preprinted calendar or draw one on the board. List each person's name along with the days on which activities are held. The whiteboard allows you to add and eliminate activities when changes occur.

Homework Area

When you have more than one child in school, it can be challenging to track everyone's papers and extra school items. Organization cubes can help. Let your children select a cube color, and make it a rule that at the end of the day, each child's homework and school supplies must be placed in the cube. When your kids bring home special mementos that you want to keep, Safeguard storage units in Philadelphia can help you manage the paper clutter in your home.

Backpack Containment

To prevent backpacks from overwhelming your kitchen, set up a containment area. Place a coatrack or hooks near the location where your kids enter your home every day to make it easy for them to put their backpacks away. During the summer, you may wish to store the backpacks, fall clothing, sports equipment, and other school supplies in your Philadelphia self storage unit.

Storage Units in Philadelphia Can Help

Treasured schoolwork, beloved art projects, band instruments and sports equipment results can be stored in your Philadelphia self storage unit. With the extra space, you can keep your home organized and clutter-free while holding on to the memories of your children's schooldays.