If you’re feeling overwhelmed by leftover clutter from the holidays, you’re not alone. Whether it’s putting away holiday decorations, finding a spot for new household items, or simply decluttering your home, we have tips to help you get started. Decluttering your house can help you stay organized and stress-free. We’ll walk through how to declutter your home and organize it, and offer tips on how to keep it organized.

How To Declutter Your Home

Not sure where to start when it comes to decluttering your home? We have tips and tricks that can help make the process easier. For example, starting a list or sorting out items is a good place to start. A tip for avoiding overwhelm is to break up the process into pieces or stages. A lot of times looking at the big picture of a project can be intimidating. Whether it’s picking out a room to start in or setting goals, taking these steps can help you start the process.

Organization Tips and Tricks

Being organized can help you stay focused and it can promote productivity. While you may be organized in other areas of your life such as at work, it’s important to implement those habits at home, too. Having designated areas for personal belongings can help you in your daily routine. Whether it’s investing in storage containers and organizers, buying furniture that includes inside storage, or downsizing your items, organization can help you avoid clutter and piles of miscellaneous items.

Sort Out and Categorize Your Belongings

As you begin to clean out and organize your home, it can be helpful to group items together either by their designated room or category. The best part of organizing is that you have the freedom to go about the process as you wish. You can be creative throughout the process by adding in your personal style—for instance, picking out storage containers that have a design you like or furniture that doubles as storage.

Utilize Storage Organizers

Luckily, you have options when it comes to picking out storage organizers. There are many different types of storage organizers based on different storage needs. A common household storage organizer is the cube organizer. These organizers are square shelves that contain fabric cubes or boxes for storing items. The fabric cubes come in different colors and designs, so you can choose them based on your home décor. These organizers are available at stores including Target and Walmart that are affordable, which is a plus.

Another great way to store household items is with wire rack shelves. Whether you’ve run out of pantry space, need to organize items in your garage, or additional space for items in your closet, a wire rack can help. Wire racks are fairly versatile as many come with wheels and can be easily moved as needed. If you have plastic totes full of seasonal décor, or shoes and other miscellaneous items that need a home, you can easily stack them on a wire shelf.

Use Storage Furniture

Another option for storing personal belongings around the home is storage furniture. There are a variety of different types of furniture pieces that include hidden storage space. When you need a spot to store spare books or electronics when you aren’t using them, consider a couch or chair that has built-in storage space. Other common storage furniture pieces are benches or chests. Not only do benches add additional seating and style to your home, but they can also double as storage for shoes, purses, and more.

Get Creative With Your Space

As your collection of belongings may expand for a variety of reasons, you’re required to get creative with the space that you have. Whether you’re adjusting to a new lifestyle, are in the middle of a move, or simply have taken on new hobbies that require extra belongings, it’s important to make space in your home for the things most important to you.

Whether it’s getting crafty with dual-function storage spaces or investing in storage organizers, you can find the right fit for you. However, sometimes you may run out of new ways to get creative with your belongings. Utilizing self storage can help you free up space in your home and keep you organized.

Find Your Self Storage Unit at Safeguard Self Storage

Free up space in your home and find your storage unit at Safeguard Self Storage. We have a wide selection of storage units available to accommodate your storage needs. Additionally, you can take advantage of modern storage features that can make the storage process easier. Find a Safeguard Self Storage location near you to get started!

If you have looked into storing your items in a storage unit, you have likely heard of climate-controlled storage. While you may not know what it is and what it does, you are probably aware that it usually costs more than a regular storage unit. This additional cost is not without benefits, which is what we will discuss in this article. 

What is Climate-Controlled Storage?

Climate-controlled storage units are storage units that are temperature controlled to protect items from extreme temperatures.  If the temperature rises above or below what you set the unit at, a ventilation system will kick on, restoring your unit to the appropriate levels. 

What Needs to Be Stored in Climate-Controlled Storage?

Now that you know how climate-controlled storage works, you are probably wondering if you could benefit from a climate-controlled storage unit. We’ll walk through a list of common items that need to be stored in a specific climate.

Clothing and Linens

While clothing may not seem like a storage item that’d require climate-control, certain fabrics such as lace and linens can be susceptible to extreme temperatures. If you have clothing made out of sensitive material or that you want to be sure remains in good condition - store them in a self storage unit.

Electronics, Plastics, and Vinyl

Electronics are a common item to be stored in a climate-controlled unit, as they especially are sensitive to drastic weather change and extreme weather conditions. Freezing temperatures can cause electronics and vinyls to crack or break. Avoid the heartbreak of pulling your Xbox gaming system out of storage and discovering it won’t turn on due to weather damage and find your climate-controlled storage unit today at Safeguard Self Storage!

Furniture

Just like clothing and linen, upholstered furniture can mold or mildew in high heat and humidity. Wooden and metal parts to furniture may rust, warp, crack, or break due to adverse weather exposure. By the time you go to use that spare bed or couch, you may find it isn’t stable enough to be used. Protect your furniture from the elements and choose climate-controlled storage.

Medical Supplies and Cosmetics

Medical supplies and cosmetics are another popular storage item. Damaged cosmetics and other related items can cause infections and other nasty things if they aren’t stored in a proper environment. Whether it's for personal or business use, Safeguard Self Storage is here to keep your business inventory or personal belongings protected.

Musical Instruments

If you find that you aren’t using your piano or guitar as much anymore or need a place to store it temporarily, self storage is a great solution. However, many musical instruments require a specific temperature to avoid wear and tear or potential damage caused by the elements. Luckily, Safeguard Self Storage offers climate-controlled storage units to provide additional protection from inclement weather or wear and tear through every season.

Benefits of Climate Controlled Storage

Whether your items weren’t on our list above or you’re still debating whether or not climate-controlled storage is right for you, we are here to provide additional information that will help you make your decision.

1. Protection from Adverse Climates

Since climate-controlled storage keeps the environment of the storage unit constant, you reap the benefit of having protection from heat and humidity. You should especially consider climate-controlled storage if you live in places with extreme heat, intense humidity, or both. Even if you don’t, extreme cold or dryness can also affect the items you have in storage.

2. Superior Air Quality

In addition to air circulation, climate-controlled storage units are typically sealed tight to help regulate the inside temperature. Avoid having to come around every so often and open your unit up to get fresh air. The combination of regulated temperature and frequent air circulation can help prevent risks such as mold or dust and debris. 

3. Better Longevity

Another great advantage of a climate-controlled storage unit is that the protection from drastic temperatures can help keep your items in their best condition. When your items are exposed to extreme heat or freezing temperatures, it can cause wear and tear and potential damage. WIth climate-controlled storage units, you can have peace of mind while storing your items for the long term knowing they are protected. 

4. Additional Protection from Dust and Debris

When storing your items for the long term, dust and debris can have an effect on your items. Certain items such as electronics can be damaged from dust or debris by settling into small holes or crevices and affecting how it operates.

5. Avoid Humidity

Humidity and moisture can cause damage to items while they are stored for the long-term. For items such as important documents, furniture, or appliances, it can cause rust and major damage. If you live in an area with high humidity or in a tropical climate, consider climate-controlled storage and protect your belongings from water damage.

6. Peace of Mind

All of these things considered, the most important thing climate-controlled storage can give you is peace of mind. Knowing that your items are stored appropriately will take one more item off your list of daily stressors, which is priceless.

Find Your Climate-Controlled Storage Unit at Safeguard Self Storage

When you’re ready to rent your climate-controlled storage unit,  find a local climate-controlled storage unit at Safeguard Self Storage! If nothing else, climate-controlled storage will give you peace of mind by knowing your items are safe even if you weren’t sure how to store them for only a few dollars more a month.

When a storage unit is abandoned, the company that owns the storage unit will put it up for auction. These auctions are open to the public. Anyone who comes has the opportunity to walk away with everything from the storage unit, including anything with value. This article will talk about how to make money at storage unit auctions because you can make unbelievable profits from these auctions.

What is a Storage Unit Auction?

If a storage unit renter misses their payment for any reason, the company that owns the storage unit is allowed to put the unit up for sale. Typically, this will happen when a family member passes and the family didn’t know about the storage unit. Low incomes or lack of money to pay are different stories, and facilities tend to offer payment plans to help.

There is always a clause in the storage unit lease saying that after a certain time without payment, the company has the right to put the storage unit up for sale. This helps the company get back the money they lost with the missed payment and clear out the space for a new renter.

How do Storage Auctions Work?

Once they have the missed payment, companies usually wait 30 to 90 days to send the storage unit to auction. Once the time period they designate is up, they will buy advertisements to announce the auction and begin looking for auctioneers to host the auction. They do nothing to the unit before it goes to public auction, so all the valuable items remain in the unit.

There are three main phases to a storage auction: before the auction, the auction, and after the auction. Here is what you can expect in each of the stages.

Before the Auction

The main thing you need to do before an auction takes place is to find the auction and register for it. Though auctions are open to the public, they need to verify that you are at least 18 years of age to participate. Check the ads to know if this will be done online, at the facility before the auction, or at the storage facility on the day of the auction.

It can also be good to verse yourself with common items you may find in a storage unit. There is always something valuable in storage unit auctions, so you will most likely find something that you can use or sell. If you do choose to sell some of the items, you may want to research routes to sell them, including online places like eBay and Craigslist or in-person avenues like flea markets or garage sales.

You will want to set a spending limit based on the number of boxes in the unit and how much you think each box is worth. For example, if there are eight boxes and you think they are worth $15 each, your spending limit should be $120. It’s also a good idea to rent a moving truck as you typically have so much time to move your items if you win the storage unit.

The Auction

You are going to want to arrive early at the storage unit facility to make sure you are prepared for the day. You will not be able to look through the items before or during the auction, so arriving early just provides you time to get prepared. The facility will cut the lock and open the unit so you and the rest of the bidders can look at the unit then the auction will begin.

Here are the rules for most storage unit auctions:

• Bidders bid on the whole unit not on an item-by-item basis.
• There are no sealed bids.
• The unit goes to the highest bidder.
• You must pay cash to the facility upon winning.
• The facility may ask for a deposit until you have the unit cleared.
• Most facilities give you 24 to 48 hours to clean out the unit.

Remember that bids can range anywhere from $100 to over $1,000 depending on how valuable people think the storage unit items are.

After the Auction

There are also rules to what can and cannot be taken from the storage unit. Some of the rules may change based on facility, but some constant rules are as follows:

• All vehicles are sold for parts as no title can be obtained
• Personal items like photos and important documents must be turned over to the facility to return to the previous renter
• Any firearms found in the unit must be surrendered to local law enforcement

How to Make a Profit from Storage Auctions

The first thing you are going to want to do on the occasion that you win a storage unit is to make plans for how to move the items out. If you already scheduled a rental van or moving truck, you should be able to start taking things out. It can be helpful to rent a self-storage unit to keep your items until you decide what to do with them. At Safeguard Self Storage, we have month-to-month leasing options so you can rent a storage unit for the long or short term.

Once you have everything out, begin sorting through everything by dividing them into “trash”, “keep”, and “sell” items. There will likely be stuff you do not want, but some items may be worth more than you could imagine.

People have all kinds of habits that can lead you to a profit. Some people collect film memorabilia or other collectible items like Beanie Babies and comics that can sell for way more than you bought the unit for. Have items you know are valuable appraised to make sure you know the true value. Be sure to check the current price of things you aren’t sure about so you don’t throw away anything that could give you a profit. Some of the most valuable storage locker finds are items that people think are junk.

How to Find Storage Auctions in Your Area

Most storage facilities will take out advertising to spread the word that there is an auction happening. Check local newspapers to find out if there is an auction in your area. Some websites are massive compilations of storage unit auctions all around the world. If you aren’t sure, you can always reach out to local storage facilities and see if they have any auctions coming up or go online to auction sites such as storageauctions.com and storagetreasures.com.

Storage auctions can be a lucrative endeavor if you are willing to put in a little leg work to understand how they function. If you can find a storage auction, you will likely find things you want or that others will want, so you get a profit. Check local advertisements or storage facilities to see if any auctions are coming up in your area.

Things To Do in Tampa, FL

Looking for things to do in Tampa? Whether you're a year-round resident or a snowbird settling down for the winter, Safeguard Self Storage has you covered. Known for its beautiful weather, scenic parks and beaches, and mouthwatering culinary scene, Tampa is the place to be when you’re ready for some weekend adventures.

Tailgate at a Tampa Bay Buccaneers Game

Win or lose, there’s nothing like tailgating at a Tampa Bay Bucs game. From beer-simmered bratwursts to perfectly grilled burgers, cheering on the Buccaneers at a tailgate is even better with the right recipes. Don’t feel like cooking? No problem! You can find plenty of spots to grab game day grub, from étouffée and po'boys at Walk On’s to a Cubano at La Teresita.

Attend a Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey Game

If you prefer the indoors to a tailgate, it’s time to head to Amalie Arena to cheer on the Tampa Bay Lightning. This team plays a heart-stopping, fast-paced game of hockey that’s always a crowd-pleaser. They’ve even won the Stanley Cup two years in a row, and just like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ fandom, supporters of the Bolts know how to have a good time. You can find plenty of food and beverage options around the arena in between periods.

Take a Class at the University of Tampa

Things to do in Tampa don’t always have to involve sports. If you’re looking to exercise your brain and have fun while doing it, try taking a class at the University of Tampa. They have plenty of options for non-degree-seeking students. Even if you’re not interested in taking courses, you can always explore the Spartans’ calendar to learn about performances, community events, and more.

Plan a Weekend Staycation in Tampa

Looking for things to do in Tampa this weekend? Make the most of your time off by planning a staycation. Do some crowdsourcing with your friends, coworkers, or neighbors to find out what they either enjoy doing around town or want to do around town and build a weekend itinerary from that.

It can be as simple as checking out the farmers market and trying a new restaurant or as structured as grabbing breakfast, exploring museums, and attending a local music show. The sky's the limit for your Tampa staycation!

If you are bitten by the travel bug, however, we have good news: Tampa International Airport is just down the road! From New York to Chicago and beyond, you always turn your staycation into a little jaunt across the country. It may just come with a higher price tag than sticking close to home.

Enjoy the Sunny Tampa Weather at the Beach

If planning isn’t your thing, just take advantage of the gorgeous Tampa weather and find yourself a beach to lounge on. Some of the prettiest beaches in and around Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Caladesi Island, Sand Key Beach, and more. Just remember to bring your sunscreen. Dealing with sunburns is the last thing you want to do in Tampa.

Additionally, whether you rent a boat or already own one, Tampa is the place to be when you’re ready to fish. You can fish for countless different species of fish around the bay, such as the Common Snook. You can fish for Snook all year long in Tampa, but March to November is the best time to catch one of these beauties. 

Explore the Local Museums and Gardens in Tampa

Tampa is home to countless museums that offer daily free admission, such as:

• The Ringling’s Museum of Art (free on Mondays)
• Henry B. Plant Museum (additional costs for some exhibits)
• Tampa Firefighters Museum
• The Florida Botanical Gardens 
• USF Botanical Gardens

Try Your Hand at Home Improvement With Some Thrifting

Two birds, one stone: if you’re looking for things to do in Tampa, and you’re ready to breathe some new life into your home decor, it’s time to go thrifting! Believe it or not, thrifting can be a great solution for redecorating your home. 

And we’re not talking about grabbing a questionable old couch at the secondhand shop. Tampa has a great antique shopping scene full of unique, vintage pieces that will look great in your house, apartment, or condo for an affordable price. You can even find collectible books at fun spots like Lighthouse Books, ABAA!

Give Yourself Space to Enjoy Tampa with Safeguard Self Storage

No matter what a fun day in Tampa Bay looks like for you, many activities in Tampa may require storage space. Whether you’re looking for a place to store your fishing gear (or even your boat itself) or your tailgating chairs are cluttering your garage, you can create the space you need for your hobbies in Tampa with Safeguard Self Storage.

We have convenient and affordable storage solutions for residents and business owners in the Tampa area. Rearranging furniture in your home or closing up your snowbird home until next winter? We’ve got the space you need when you need it. We have two new storage facilities in the Tampa metropolitan area, located in Seffner and Seminole Heights. If you’re looking for storage units in Citrus Park, FL, we have a storage location there as well to meet your self-storage needs.

Enjoy your favorite things to do in Tampa without worrying about the storage space you have at home. Find your storage unit in Tampa at Safeguard Self Storage today!

When winter rolls around and the temperature starts to drop, the time comes once again for the annual migration southward. Snowbirding is a long held tradition among Northerners who can’t, or don't want, to handle the ferocity of winter. While most snowbirds are retirees who can afford to split time between north and south, there has been an increase in younger snowbirds in recent years. With winter right around the corner, now’s the best time to highlight our top snowbirding locations.

Essentials of Snowbirding in Florida

Before we dive right into our top snowbirding locations, we should discuss the must-have elements of a good snowbirding spot. First and foremost, the weather needs to be warm year round. If you have to worry about snow and ice, what’s the point of snowbirding? Florida is the most popular state for snowbirds for exactly this reason. 

You’ll also need places to stay, such as rental communities or RV resorts, that fit with your personal lifestyle. For the extroverts out there, you’ll also want to make sure you have plenty of access to community activities near the place you’re staying. When you’ve settled on the way you want to stay, you can begin looking for the ideal locations for your snowbird adventure.

Bradenton, FL

On the Manatee River as it flows into Tampa Bay, Bradenton is one of Florida’s Gulf Coast communities. Bradenton has several rental communities and RV parks that give options of how you stay as well as having many different options for things to do. The South Florida Museum is a one stop destination for many different educational opportunities. In recent years, downtown Bradenton has become an art district with sites like the Village of the Arts. You can also easily visit the city of Tampa if you’re looking for big city thrills. For an excellent coastal city, Bradenton is a great place to stay for the winter.

Cortez, FL

Cortez is a village by Bradenton in prime position for beach access and fishing. Gulf Coast beaches are just a few minutes drive away from Cortez, and the marinas and fishing charters mean that you can easily find some great spots to cast a line. The Florida Maritime Museum is also in Cortez if you would like to learn more about maritime history. You can find great locations to stay right on the water or further inland.

Seffner, FL

Seffner is a quiet suburb of Tampa on the route to Plant City. It offers several rental options both in the village and in neighboring Mango. It borders Lake Weeks and Lake Hooker, with Lake Weeks in particular being well-known for its fishing and its Spanish Moss. While Seffner isn’t coastal, it is close to Tampa, so you’ll still have easy access to the beach and ocean. You can also find six public parks and a local animal conservation center. Seffner is an excellent choice for fishermen as well as snowbirds looking to be near a big city without being in the middle of things.

Tamarac, FL

Tamarac is located in the Miami metropolitan area near Fort Lauderdale. It features several RV parks as well as rental options for snowbirds. If you love golf, Tamarac is a great place to winter with multiple courses within the limits of the suburb. You can also easily access the rest of the Miami area and visit the beaches of Fort Lauderdale. For soccer fans, DRC PNK Stadium, home of Inter Miami CF, is also nearby down Commercial Boulevard. If you’re looking for a place to spend the winter near Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Tamarac is an ideal choice.

Largo, FL

Largo is another city in the Tampa Bay area with a wide range of various housing options. With RV parks and multiple housing communities in the area, you can find a location that fits your specific needs for proximity or amenities. Largo has been named the Arbor Day Tree city 32 times as of writing due to its sheer amount of urban vegetation. With golf courses, beaches, botanical gardens, and more, Largo is an excellent location to hole up for the winter. 

Snowbird Storage with Safeguard Self Storage 

Bringing your belongings back and forth from north to south every year comes with the territory of being a snowbird. What if you could lessen the load by leaving behind some of the items you only use at your winter home? Safeguard Self Storage offers storage solutions in each of the best snowbird locations in Florida. When you pack up to return home, leave some of your belongings with us and save yourself the hassle of bringing them back every spring. We provide a wide selection of storage unit sizes and types, allowing you to find the right unit for you. Find a Safeguard storage facility near you today!

New Orleans may be Louisiana's largest city, but the Big Easy doesn't take itself too seriously. From throwing the country's best-known Mardi Gras celebration to hosting NFL and NBA teams, this charming city on the Mississippi River knows how to have a good time. There's a reason the phrase "Laissez le bon temps rouler" is associated with New Orleans. Translated to Cajun French, it means, "Let the good times roll." We’ll share some suggestions for fun things to do in New Orleans, from catching live music to watching the New Orleans Saints play in their hometown.

Culture in the Crescent City

From catching a musical at Saenger Theater or taking in an exhibit at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art to absorbing multidisciplinary works at the Contemporary Arts Center, New Orleans' cultural offerings alone can easily fill your leisure time. The arts are a big factor here, and you can spend a given day or night at the opera, a poetry reading, the theater, a photography exhibit, the ballet or a symphony. The city even hosted the country's first recorded opera in 1796. However, being a patron of the arts here doesn't require you to dress up; Jackson Square is home to talented artists drawing and painting in every style under the sun. Festivals like Art for Art's Sake are another great way to sample the city's vibrant arts scene.

Embrace the City's Spooky Side

Whether or not you buy the hype, many claim New Orleans is home to a hair-raising number of ghosts. While we can't guarantee that you'll catch a glimpse of one, you can boost your odds by visiting sites said to host visitors from the spirit world. Pay a visit to the Bourbon Orleans Hotel or the Haunted Hotel. The latter is said not only to be haunted, but to have hosted a serial killer called the Axeman. Enjoy a drink at Old Absinthe House or Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, where the customer at the next barstool may not be among the living. Here are some other spooky things to do in New Orleans:

• Stroll haunted Jackson Square
• Watch for tortured spirits at the LaLaurie Mansion
• Explore St. Louis Cemetery and other raised graveyards
• Spend some time at the delightfully morbid Museum of Death
• Work your way out of escape rooms at Mortuary Haunted House

Haunted New Orleans hotels and bars aren't the only places for a good scare. The Big Easy is also home to plenty of ghost-themed tours, making it easy to scope out the city's most chill-inducing locales. These tours aren't just for visitors; you can learn a lot of fun facts about your city while enjoying a good scare.

The Best New Orleans Food

In this pleasure-seeking city, dining takes center stage. New Orleans food options range from traditional Cajun and creole to ramen shops and Roman-style pizzerias, so you're sure to find something to please your palate. That said, here's our list of classic New Orleans foods to sample in the Big Easy:

• Gumbo
• Oysters
• Po boys
• Pralines
• Muffalettas
• Bananas Foster
• Crawfish etouffee

While eating beignets is practically a requirement in New Orleans, the city's best bakeries and chocolatiers also offer beautifully made sweets like Windowsill Pies' namesake dessert, whimsically designed morsels at Piety and Desire Chocolate, and gorgeous meringues from Lord of Meringues. And given the warm weather in New Orleans, it comes as no shock that al fresco dining and culinary tours are both popular activities.

Sports in the Big Easy

Sports fans will find plenty of exciting things to do in New Orleans. If you're lucky enough to score season tickets, you're in for an exciting fall packed with New Orleans Saints games at the Caesars Superdome. The Super Bowl XLIV winners aren't the only game in town, though. If you're into basketball, you'll love catching the Pelicans playing NBA home games at the Smoothie King Center. Tulane University's Green Wave plays NCAA football, and the city is represented by many college basketball teams. Professional baseball's first spring training sessions were held here, and the Big Easy originated the practices of issuing rain checks and protecting the field from rain with tarps.

A Musical Note

As the birthplace of jazz, it isn't surprising that New Orleans is an amazing city for live music. If you want to see up-and-comers playing alongside big-name musicians, head to Frenchmen Street. Located in the Marigny neighborhood not far from the French Quarter, area clubs are nestled amongst restaurants and homes demonstrating a lovely mix of architectural styles. Speaking of the French Quarter, Bourbon Street is awash in live street music in addition to historic New Orleans hotels, bars and restaurants.

Or, make your way to the Uptown neighborhood for a show at the famous Tipitina's. The venue presents events ranging from Abba-inspired disco nights and Allen Toussaint tributes to concerts by the Indigo Girls. Grab a bite before the show at one of the area's outstanding restaurants, or admire the many pooches walking their owners as you stroll through this dog-friendly, highly walkable neighborhood.

Spring is the ultimate time for music lovers; the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival offers over a week's worth of top-tier jazz music alongside diverse offerings from the likes of the Who, Ziggy Marley, Ludacris, Willie Nelson and Death Cab for Cutie. Festival organizers typically work with New Orleans hotels to offer special deals on lodging and shuttle transportation, so give your music-fan friends from around the country a heads-up when Spring rolls around again.

Store Your Stuff

There’s no secret that there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy activities in New Orleans, which can lead to developing new hobbies. As you become accustomed to the New Orleans culture and expand your collection of belongings, your storage space may start to run thin. Luckily, Safeguard Self Storage provides New Orleans with reliable storage solutions.

Stash everything from off-season clothing and furniture to holiday decorations and business equipment at our Erato Street facility in New Orleans. Covered loading areas, climate-controlled units and sitewide security measures make storing your belongings easy and worry-free so you can make the most of life in the Big Easy. Rent or reserve your New Orleans storage unit today to get started!

You’re on the hunt for a new place to live and you have your eyes on apartments in Seffner, FL. This beautiful Tampa suburb boasts a modest population that has seen burgeoning growth in the last few years. It’s a quaint, friendly place to live for individuals and families of all ages, shapes, and sizes. Before deciding on a place to live, it can be helpful to create a list of amenities or features that are must-haves. Safeguard Self Storage can help you cover your bases as well as provide a few tips on how self storage in Seffner, FL, can facilitate an easy transition into a brand new home.

Assess Your Needs 

It can be helpful to prioritize needs vs. wants when searching for apartments. While there are a lot of great perks of having a fancy apartment with new appliances, you’ll also want to ensure you have sufficient storage space in your apartment for all of your belongings.

Whether you’re bringing along pets or roommates will help determine what kind of apartment would be the right fit for you. If you have a large family or like to entertain guests, you may want an apartment with plenty of living space or multiple bedrooms. However, a smaller apartment will likely be a more affordable option, which is great if you’re living alone or with a significant other.

If you are a pet owner, you’ll need to find an apartment complex that allows pets and your specific type of pet. Additionally, you’ll want to find an apartment that has nearby grass or walking trails for your pet to play and get exercise. 

Location

When deciding what to look for in an apartment, many people focus on things like the cost of rent and the distance to their workplace. Something to also consider is the surrounding area. The right location can make all the difference in your quality of life. Living in a spot where you feel safe to go on walks and feel comfortable is important. Plus, you don't want to be too far from places you visit frequently, such as grocery stores and restaurants. 

Cost

Perhaps the greatest factor of any new move is the cost. How much will you need to pay in rent and utilities each month, and is it possible with your current income? A general rule of thumb is that your rent shouldn’t cost more than a third of your take-home pay, and many apartments require you to submit proof of income to guarantee you can afford the unit.

The cost of apartments can widely vary, so take time to shop around and make comparisons. Some apartments may include utilities in the rent, while others may charge separately for heat, water, and electricity. Keep parking space in mind as well, as you may have to pay extra for a garage or covered parking space. 

Additionally, instead of paying for an extra room to fit all of your belongings, utilizing a self storage unit can be a more affordable option. Many self storage facilities offer flexible leasing options, so you’ll never have to worry about being locked into long-term contracts. You can also find discounts on various units as well.

Maximize Space in Your Storage Unit With Safeguard Self Storage 

While you can find apartments that have a decent amount of storage space, you may find yourself needing more space as you move in. Many apartments have minimal closet space and outdoor storage closets. Storing boxes or seasonal items in outdoor closets is not ideal as they can be affected by inclement weather and pests. Luckily, at Safeguard Self Storage, we have climate controlled storage units available at many of our storage facilities, protecting your belongings from various elements. 

Whether you need to store spare furniture or seasonal clothing, Safeguard Self Storage can help. With a wide variety of storage unit types and sizes, you can be sure to find the right storage unit to accommodate your storage needs. Unsure what size of storage unit you’ll need? Our size estimator can help narrow down the options. Contact us today to reserve your storage unit! 

Whether you recently took on tennis or have been an avid soccer player for many years, you are probably aware of all of the equipment required to play a sport. From uniforms, shoes, balls, gloves, rackets, bats, and more, the equipment adds up fast. However, finding ways to effectively store sporting equipment can reduce the stress. Organizing personal items not only frees up space in your home, but it can also help keep your items in good condition. Plus, having a clean, organized home can free up space in your mind, too!

Simple Ways To Store Sports Equipment at Home

It’s no secret that organizing can be a daunting task. However, taking the organization process step by step can help. For example, whatever task you’re dreading most, knock that out first. If cleaning out the space that contains your sports equipment and sorting it all out is the most time-consuming, do that first! Then you can get rid of anything you don’t need and make a plan for the equipment you plan to keep.

While there are plenty of different ways to organize your home, some ways are more efficient than others. Storage organizers can help you efficiently and easily organize and store your things. Available in a wide variety of sizes, there are plenty of storage bins, totes, and shelves to make organizing easy.

Where Should I Store Sporting Equipment in My Home?

Dedicating a space for your sporting or outdoor equipment can be tricky but essential. If you’re unsure what space in your home or apartment would be best to store your equipment, consider choosing a spot that will be most out of the way. For example, if you have a garage, the best spot may be on a shelf against the wall. If you don’t have a garage, a closet inside your home could work too. Once you have sorted out the equipment, you can arrange it in storage bins or on a shelf accordingly.

Sports Equipment Storage for Your Garage

If you have space in your garage, it may be ideal to set up a garage organizer such as a wire rack or a shelf for storing sporting equipment. One benefit of utilizing your garage instead of a closet or room in your home is that it frees up space that can be used for other purposes.

Keeping your sporting equipment off the ground can not only declutter your garage but can also help avoid unnecessary wear and tear. Leaving shoes or pads on the floor without ensuring they are dry and clean can lead to mold from built-up moisture. They can also collect dirt, dust, and filth. Storing your equipment on shelves and in containers can help keep your things clean and in good shape.

How To Maximize Closet Space

If you don’t have a garage, your options for storage may be limited, especially in an apartment. However, there are ways to get the most out of your space with organization hacks. There are affordable closet organizers, drawers, and stackable storage boxes that allow you to maximize storage space. Depending on the amount of equipment you need to store, you have options. Whether it's hanging up your uniform, hanging shoes or cleats in a shoe organizer, or buying a cube organizer, you’ll be able to fit a variety of items in your closet.

Sports Equipment Storage Ideas

For smaller items such as gloves, balls, hats or visors, head wraps, sunglasses, or shoes, storage totes are ideal. Both plastic and cloth totes are perfect for ball storage and other small items.

The best way to store basketballs or soccer balls is to get a ball rack that won’t take up too much space. If you’d rather store all of your gear in a storage rack designed for sporting equipment, that’s an option as well. With an equipment storage container, you can easily hang up baseball bats, hockey sticks, and yoga mats and place baseballs or tennis balls in their designated slots.

How Self Storage Can Free Up Space in Your Home

While there are ways to manage storage equipment inside your home or in the garage, it still may not be ideal. When you need to free up space around your home, self storage is the ideal solution. At Safeguard Self Storage, we offer a variety of storage types and unit sizes to accommodate different storage needs.

When you need sports storage, our advanced storage features allow you to enjoy peace of mind knowing your equipment is protected. Features such as air-conditioned units and packing supplies allow you to ensure your items are protected from normal wear and other elements. Visit our storage facility or find your storage unit online today!      

So, you’ve been thinking about the next big home project for your Tamarac, FL, living space. Whether you want to modernize your kitchen plan, add a little more space to one of your rooms, or just need a change in your environment, the ideas for how to renovate a house are as endless as the human imagination. We commend you for taking the leap.

However, at Safeguard Self Storage on West Commercial Boulevard, we also know how easy it is to become overwhelmed with the process. “Analysis paralysis” is only one problem surrounding DIY home remodel ideas, sometimes the issue is you can’t come up with anything at all! And even if you do, where are you supposed to put your belongings while you actually follow through on your renovation plan? It can be a lot.

If you’re not sure to start, Safeguard can help you learn how to plan a Tamarac home renovation, as well as what you can do to create a little more space during the process.

DIY Home Remodel Ideas in Tamarac, FL

Organized home remodeling in Tamarac can be as simple or as complicated as you want. Let’s walk through some of your options.

Painting

Painting is nice because it doesn’t (usually) involve the need to break or move any fixed objects/walls. Depending on the type of wall or age of the house, the exact process may differ, but providing a new coat of paint to a room is a relatively quick and affordable means to an upgraded home.

Light it Up

The power of natural light should not be underestimated in DIY home remodeling. Natural light has a tremendous positive effect on your mood levels, so if you find your home has you feeling down, consider installing a couple windows.

If natural light isn’t an option, then bright artificial light is a satisfactory replacement, especially if the room is really dim or dark. In those circumstances, any extra light will make things feel a lot more welcoming and homey.

Develop an Open Floor Plan 

Developing an open floor plan may require some…“tactical” destruction. Open floor plans are trendy and spacious, but may require knocking down some walls and doorways. Fortunately, once you finish, the market value of your Tamarac home will likely increase, and you’ll have a comfortable, wide-open space to greet you when you come home.

Install a Bar in the Basement 

If your basement (or similar space) is suffering from a lack of distinct character, try installing a bar or café. It’s amazing what some nice tile, glasses, and bottles can do to give your DIY home remodeling an air of novelty. It also makes for a natural home base if you ever want to host a party or sport-watching event. You’ve got to put those tailgating snacks somewhere, right?

Transform the Attic 

For many people in Tamarac, the attic is relegated to the default storage space for seasonal belongings, old memorabilia, and other stuff you don’t need around at all times. However, if you find a new space for those things (such as a small self-storage unit), you can take what’s left of the attic and change it into a room of its own! It will probably take a lot of cleaning, repair, and installing new items, but with some work, this could become an intriguing reprieve from your other living spaces, or even transform into a child’s bedroom.

Say Goodbye to Carpet

Carpet can look good, but it’s not as favorable in households as it once was, especially not if it’s everywhere. A relatively simple way to add a new feel to a room is to say goodbye to the carpet, and replace it with wood or vinyl flooring that matches the feel of the space.

Alternatively, if you aren’t satisfied with the flooring in your kitchen, you could take the less affordable but really pleasing route of laying down a nice tile. This one change can completely alter the way you feel while in the kitchen, which is important since you probably spend a lot of time there.

New Appliances 

This one is pretty simple. Out with the old, in with the new. Upgrade your refrigerator, washing machine, or entertainment center. Sometimes that’s all you need.

Bring in the Backsplash 

The thing about a backsplash is that it can look like basically anything. They come in any color or design you can think of, so all it comes down to is finding one that you want and having it installed. This, especially in combination with the tile floor suggestion, can make your kitchen look like an entirely new room. Perfect for an advanced organized home remodeling.

Remix Your Shower 

It’s a little thing, but swapping out a shower curtain for a door, installing a seat, or changing the showerhead, can turn your shower experience from something mundane into something fresh. The simple act of changing curtains or towels can help a little if you’re on a really tight budget.

Level Up Your Garage 

If you find yourself spending several hours a week in your garage, it wouldn’t hurt to outfit it with things to make it look and function easier. Organization shelves and panels, a skylight, and many other options exist for expanding or developing your garage space into a DIY home remodel more appealing in both the short and the long term.

Decluttering for a Renovation with Safeguard Self Storage

How do you plan a home renovation when there’s nowhere to put all the stuff currently residing in your home? Unless you’re willing to leave a bunch of stuff in the yard for a couple weeks, we assure you, there’s a much better option: a self storage unit in Tamarac, FL.

Safeguard Self Storage wants to help your renovation get off the ground by providing our versatile and affordable storage unit choices for your consideration. Our Tamarac self storage facility offers a wide range of storage unit sizes, features, and specials to help you create space for your DIY home renovation.

New to renting storage? No worries, we have your back. Dive into our storage tips for the fundamentals, so you can feel confident in starting up your Tamarac self storage journey today.

Donning a modest population of around 55,000, and couched between fresh and saltwater, Bradenton, Florida is an ideal setting for people who enjoy living with a nice blend of urban fun and outdoor appeal. If you have downtown Bradenton on your horizon, or you’re considering making this idyllic city your next big move, it’s understandable that you’d want to know what it has to offer before taking the plunge.

Safeguard Self Storage has spent some time in Bradenton, where we’ve helped many people de-stress their lives through all sorts of events with our self storage units, so we have a handy primer to help you determine if this slice of Manatee County is where you should call home.

Things to do in Bradenton, FL

There are as many things to do in Bradenton, FL, as there are people who live there. This is especially true in the Spring, when the weather is nice and events are happening everywhere.

Food & Drink

 Depending on your taste palette and how privy you are to alcoholic beverages, your mileage, of course, may vary. That said, you’ll find no shortage of options as you explore Bradenton. Here are a few of our favorites.

Add some spice to your life with the Thai Palace. From golden brown rangoons to their delicious curry varieties, you are absolutely spoiled for choice.

If you want something with an engaging view, give Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant a try. Their seafood and Americana are some of the best offerings in the city.

Of course, for a different kind of experience, hop over to Motorworks Brewing for good beers, good games, and trees decorated in ambient lights.

Outdoors

Things to do in Bradenton, FL, are not limited to food. So you had a bite to eat and now need to get your steps in for the day. Where do you go next?

 For a clear and direct path, try Bradenton Riverwalk. Meandering around the Manatee River, this dog-friendly path is a local favorite for walking or biking. Also, nice shade to escape the sun for a while! If you find a spot you like, you can even throw down a spot for a picnic or grab food from a nearby diner.

If your interests lie more in the beauties of flora, swing over to Palma Sola Botanical Park, and let nature enfold you. Visitors are invited to wander the entirety of its 10 acres, where you’ll share company with butterflies, birds, and plants of all shapes and sizes.

Our personal favorite Bradenton outdoor experience is the TreeUmph Adventure Course. Embrace treetop transportation and zip, climb, or scale your way across a variety of bridges, zip lines, bridges, and more! The heights might not be for the faint of heart, but if you want something with a little more thrill than your average day out, TreeUmph will give it to you in spades.

Of course, you can always take a day on the water, as well. Sailing, scuba diving, swimming, you name it! Throw on a swimsuit and go for a dip.

Downtown Bradenton

Downtown Bradenton plays host to many of the things we’ve mentioned so far, but also much more! It’s worth taking a moment to address some of the other novelties and forms of entertainment you can find in the city.

For the performing arts, look no further than McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, Asolo Repertory Theatre, or the Manatee Performing Arts Center for your fill of good laughs, intriguing plays, and live music of various styles.

Go bowling at Bowlero Bradenton, explore science and history at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature or Manatee Village Historical Park, and challenge your mind with the Mysterium Escape Rooms & VR.

No matter what kind of entertainment you enjoy, chances are you’ll find it here.

Reliable Storage for Those Moving to Downtown Bradenton

Are you changing jobs? Moving closer to family? Maybe you want to move away from a huge city without sacrificing the benefits of a modern urban lifestyle, so you’re downsizing to something more modest.

Whatever your reason for moving, Safeguard is happy for you and here to help.

Our Bradenton storage facility on Royal Palm Drive covers an expansive array of options and features to accommodate the widest range of needs possible, from multiple unit sizes to climate control, vehicle storage, digital access, and more. Take a look at our facility size guide so you can get an idea for the exact dimensions of each unit type, planning your space and budget accordingly.

Should you need any support, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our professionals. They’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Rent your Bradenton self storage unit online today!