Declutter Diaries: The Storage Room

By Y.M. Lowy

Ah, the storage room. That catch-all zone where Pesach gear lives alongside pool noodles, where folding chairs balance on top of giant bins, and somewhere under it all… a spare crib. It’s the place we avoid until we need something, and by then, we’re knee-deep in chaos. You might not go in there often, but when you do, wouldn’t it be nice to find what you’re looking for?

Organize This:

Maximize your space effectively with a wall-mounted storage rack or sturdy hooks. These solutions are ideal for hanging lightweight chairs, outdoor umbrellas, and snow shovels, keeping the floor clear.

Ditch the mismatched containers in favor of large, transparent storage bins. This choice allows you to quickly locate what you need without unnecessary digging, while also giving your space a polished look.

To enhance visibility and organization, use clear, bold labels on each bin. Stick-on labels will make it easy to identify contents at a glance, streamlining your efforts.

For items you only use occasionally—like Pesach dishes or an inflatable pool—install an overhead ceiling storage rack. This clever solution keeps them out of the way but easily accessible when needed.

Lastly, utilize vacuum storage bags for your extra linens and crib bedding. This approach not only saves significant space but also keeps your items fresh and ready for use. 

One Item Purge Challenge:

If you have old folding chairs that are rusty or wobbly or haven’t been used in years, it might be time to let them go. Keep the sturdy and comfortable ones and toss the rest to free up valuable space.

Myth Buster:

Myth: Cardboard boxes are fine for long-term storage.

Truth: Cardboard absorbs moisture and attracts pests, making it a poor choice for extended storage. If you’re keeping things packed away for more than a few months, especially in a garage or shed, sealed plastic or weather-resistant bins offer much better protection.

Did You Know?

According to 2018 statistics, there are more than 23 million individual storage units in the United States. That’s one for every 14 Americans. Self-storage facilities employ more than 170,000 people in the United States.

How Do You Do It?

Last week we tackled the baby room — now let’s talk storage. When it comes to outgrown clothes, do you pack them up in labeled bins, vacuum bags, or dump them all?