It’s that time of year again: time to get focused and commit to your New Year’s resolution. As you’ve probably heard, it’s not an easy feat. Most people give up by the first week of February. If you’d like to make your resolutions stick this year, NSA Storage is here to help. Use these tips to meet your goals with simple planning and small steps!

Start with a Single, Clear Resolution

The biggest pitfall in the New Year is trying to make too many changes at once. This can often be overwhelming and unrealistic. Instead of trying to make many big changes, choose one relatively small goal that matters to you. To make your resolution even clearer, use the SMART goal technique. Ask yourself if your goal is:

• Specific– Having the goal “read more” is good, but it would be better if it was “read 10 books.”
• Measurable– Can you measure your progress easily? For example, the goal “I want to be happier” isn’t really something that can be measured.
• Achievable– Is your goal realistic for you? If you’re at the beginning of your exercise journey, running a marathon by the end of the year may not be achievable. Set your sights on something realistic but still challenging.
• Relevant– Will this goal have some positive impact on your life? If you reach the goal, what will have changed for you? You’re most likely to strive to reach a goal that matters to you.
• Time-Bound– Having a time frame is important because it holds you accountable. New Year’s resolutions tend to have a deadline of the end of the year, but you can break your goal down into even smaller steps with shorter deadlines so that you see progress throughout the year.

By focusing on a single, meaningful resolution, your chance of successfully seeing it through will increase!

Break that Resolution Into Smaller Steps

Resolutions can be overwhelming at the beginning of the year. If that’s how it feels with your New Year’s resolution, break it into smaller, more easily accomplished steps. This lets you celebrate wins along the way to your end goal.

• If your resolution is to lose 20 pounds in a year, set a goal for how much you want to lose each month.
• Want your home to be more organized in 2026? Organize one room at a time rather than trying to organize your entire home at once.
• If your resolution is to save more money, use a financial app to automatically deposit a weekly amount into your savings account.

By breaking your resolution into smaller, easier-to-digest steps, you’ll keep moving forward towards your ultimate goal. This may be the best way to actually reach your end goal.

Set Up a Consistent Routine

Studies say that, on average, it takes 66 days of consistency for something to become a habit. Practicing something consistently eventually forms a routine, and once something is routine, you no longer have to remind yourself to do it everyday.

Creating a routine that fits into your lifestyle is one of the top methods of staying on your resolution track! Here are a few suggestions to use it successfully:

• Set up reminders on your phone, a calendar, or whatever device you use most.
• Schedule the tasks attached to your resolution at the same time every day, or the same day every week. For example, if you’re learning to crochet, sit down everyday at the same time for a hour of crochet practice.
• Connect your new habit or task to one that you already have. Stretching after your morning coffee, for example, or putting money in your savings account every payday. That way one habit helps form another.

Use Simple Tools to Track Your Progress

Making New Year’s resolutions today is much easier thanks to new and easy ways to track your progress. A few of the best resolution tracking tools include:

• Streaks or another habit tracking app
• A wall calendar hung where you see it every day
• A whiteboard also hung where you see it every day
• A small notebook you can carry in your pocket or purse

Human brains love the gratification of pressing a button or checking a box. Tracking your resolution’s progress gives you a nice ego boost that helps you keep your momentum going. Plus, if you miss a day or week, you can hop right back into the fray with less guilt.

Stay as Flexible as Possible

Adding a New Year’s resolution to your already busy schedule can be difficult. On top of a busy schedule, life sometimes throws curveballs, making it necessary to adjust course.

Staying flexible in your goals is important. Many people give up by February because they’ve stumbled, and it feels like too big a failure to keep going. The good thing about personal goals, though, is that you’re the only one you’re accountable too. You can recommit yourself at any time and pick up where you left off.

If needed, you can also change your goal or your approach to be more realistic. Here are a few examples of staying flexible so that you meet your 2026 goals:

• Change the time, or day, you work on your resolution.
• Reduce the amount of time you work on your new habits.
• Be prepared to meet your goals even if you’re traveling or won’t be home for some reason.
• Don’t be shy about asking for help.

Get Organized in The New Year with NSA Storage

At NSA Storage, we help folks keep their decluttering and organization resolutions every year! That’s because we offer affordable, safe, and secure storage units that free up space in your home! 

Using a storage unit from NSA Storage can:

• Give you much more closet, cabinet, and garage space.
• Keep clothing and seasonal items in perfect shape.
• Help you turn a spare room into an office or other usable space.
• Make organizing holiday decor a breeze.

A storage unit gives you more room to breathe, so to speak. Even better, it will help you stay organized and uncluttered throughout the year. Happy New Year from all of us at NSA Storage, and best of luck with all your New Year’s resolutions!

The post How To Meet Your New Year’s Resolution in 2026 appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

To help, the storage specialists at NSA Storage put together this helpful list of seven decoration storage tips for the holiday season. Use them to ensure that all your holiday decorations are good to go next season, and for many more afterwards.

Why It’s Important to Store Your Holiday Decorations Correctly

Storing holiday decorations correctly can be a tedious task, but if you love decorating each holiday season, it’s truly important. Below are a few excellent reasons to properly store all your holiday decor:

• Saving Money– By storing your decorations correctly, you’ll save money next year because you won’t need to buy replacements.

• Reducing Your Stress– Ever wanted to scream thanks to a badly tangled set of lights or because your favorite ornament was smashed? Store your holiday baubles and trinkets well and you’ll skip the stress when decorating next year.

• Maximizing Storage Space– Most homes are already low on storage space. By storing holiday stuff correctly, you’ll use less of this coveted space and have more room for other things.

• Simplifies Decorating Next Year– Storing holiday decor well now will ensure that, next year, putting everything up again is easy and fun.

Our Best Decoration Storage Tips

1. Sort First, Store Second

Are all the decorations you have worth keeping and storing? If not, keep these things in mind:

• Only keep what you truly love and use every season.
• Throw out anything that’s badly damaged or broken and won’t be used again.
• Consider donating anything you don’t use (but is still in OK shape) to Goodwill or another charity.

By sorting, donating, and tossing, you’ll reduce the amount of decorations and holiday fluff you need to store, thus using less storage space,

2. Storing Fragile Items Safely

Many holiday decorations are fragile and delicate, which means you need to pack and store them with extra care. Here are a few tips to store fragile items safely:

• Have plenty of tissue paper or bubble wrap on-hand.
• Wrap each piece individually.
• Use box dividers for extra protection.
• Place a layer of crumpled paper on the bottom of each box to absorb accidental drops and movement.
• Put heavy items on the bottom and lighter items on top as you work your way to the top of the box.

3. Wrap String Lights to Prevent Tangles

Tangled lights cause more holiday stress than high credit card bills! To avoid it, follow these tips:

• Cut a 10” x 20” piece of double-corrugated cardboard (or several of them).
• Cut a notch on one of the long sides to hold the plug in place.
• Wrap the lights around the cardboard.
• Label each string to know where it goes next year. (Tree, porch, fence, house, etc.)  

4. Wreath Storage Hacks

Natural wreaths are usually thrown away because they dry out and fall apart. Plastic wreaths, however, can be used year after year. To keep them looking good during that time:

• Store them in a container made for wreaths.
• No container? Store them in a heavy-duty plastic bag with a dryer sheet to prevent pests and moisture.
• Hang them in your garage or another area that’s dry and cool.

5. Label Everything

This tip is simple but powerful: label everything. A clear labeling system is one of the best ways to reduce your stress when putting up decorations again next year. For example:

• Label boxes, bags, and other storage containers with easy-to-read wording.
• Use color-coded labels for even more clarity.
• Use an app that creates QR codes and links them to a digital list of your decorations.
• Use “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP” labels when needed.

6. Storing Fabrics and Linens

Fabrics are also fragile, including tree skirts, stockings, tablecloths, and more. Keep them in beautiful condition with these storage tips:

• Wash and thoroughly dry all holiday fabrics before storage.
• Wrap in breathable fabric bags. If you have silica gel packets from shoes and other purchased items, add those to the bag to soak up moisture.
• Use cedar blocks or chips to prevent pests.
• Don’t use plastic bags, which trap moisture that can cause mold and mildew.

7. Be Careful with Candles

Storing candles isn’t difficult or dangerous, per se, but if you store them improperly, they might melt or get destroyed. To avoid this:

• Candles should be packed and stored standing upright.
• A cool, dry storage spot is a must. Never store candles in the attic, where summer temps can be extreme.
• Trim wicks before storing to prevent the smell and color of cinders from spreading to the wax.
• For scented candles, place in a sealable bag so their scent isn’t lost.

Rent a Storage Unit for Your Decoration Storage

Most American families have a few boxes of holiday decorations that they can easily store at home. If, however, you’re big on holiday decorating, you might need a lot more space to store everything. 

Here are a few reasons why a storage unit might be your best choice to store your holiday décor:

• You’ll free up a lot of storage space in your home.
• Large, expensive holiday decorations, like outdoor inflatables, will be well protected and safe.
• You can organize your storage unit in any manner you like, to make decorating even easier next season.
• You can choose a climate-controlled storage unit for the ultimate decoration protection.

Storing your holiday decor properly is the best way to ensure that everything will be ready to make magic again next year. The tips and hacks above will make that task easier and make decorating again more enjoyable and less stressful.

At NSA Storage, many American families use our safe, secure storage units to store their holiday decorations. You can reserve a storage unit online and start using it right away to keep your ornaments, garlands, and tinsel in pristine condition!

The post 7 Decoration Storage Tips for The Holiday Season appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

The holidays can be joyful, but they can also be stressful. The last thing you need after your guest go home is a cluttered and messy house causing you even more stress. Usually, giving your space a fresh start is as easy as decluttering. Follow these five steps, brought to you by NSA Storage, to declutter after the holidays and make your home a post-Christmas sanctuary.

What Makes Decluttering After the Holidays Worth Your Time and Effort?

The holiday seasons always brings a lot of stuff with it. Presents, extra furniture, and decorations are just some of the items that can clutter up your space after the festivities are over. That stuff, if left out and about, can get in the way and stress you out. Decluttering eliminates those stressors and provides other benefits also. Here’s how:

• An uncluttered home is a calm home. It brings peace and contentment, especially after holiday chaos. 
• Your productivity will be higher. When your home is decluttered, you can concentrate on more important tasks.
• Your relationships will be stronger. Studies show that a decluttered home is a happier home.

We think you’ll agree, those are some good benefits, and great reasons to declutter your home once the holiday season ends.

Top 5 Decluttering Strategies

1. Create a Simple Decluttering Plan

Before you dive into the task, make a simple plan for what to do, when, and how. Here’s one you can use if you like:

1. Collect, sort, pack, and store all holiday items. 
2. Sort new gifts and find space to store them (and their packaging).
3. Donate, toss, or give away items you don’t want, use, or need.
4. Clean up common areas like your entryway, den, mud room, and guest room(s).
5. Sit back, take a deep breath, and enjoy your decluttered and tranquil home. 

2. Sort and Store Decorations First

Whether you have a small amount of decorations or enough to fill a storage unit, getting everything down, sorted, and stored away is a big job. That makes it the obvious choice to get finished first. The following tips will help:

• Sort everything into categories, including lights, ornaments, garland, etc. Make sure you separate the indoor and outdoor decorations too.
• Label everything clearly.
• If it’s in your budget, use large, clear, plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes. They’re much more durable and also waterproof. If your basement floods or your summers are humid, your favorite decorations will be better protected.
• Store usable bows, tape, ribbons, gift tags, etc., to use next year. Keeping them will save you time and money!

3. Donate Old Things that were Replaced by New Ones

Did you get a new blender for Christmas? Maybe a new sweater or vacuum? If so, consider donating your old things to charity. If they’re still in working condition, somebody out there might love them as much as you once did! Clothes and blankets are especially appreciated during the colder months.

4. Declutter Room By Room

Trying to declutter your entire home all at once is certainly possible but not exactly recommended by organization experts. That’s especially true if you have a larger house. Instead, do this:

• Start in a specific room. Your bedroom might be a good place to start, or any room that you’d like to be able to relax in.
• Using a basket if needed, grab anything that shouldn’t be in that room. Clothes, trinkets, toys, shoes, bathroom items, books, magazines, etc.
• Bring everything to a central location. The kitchen table would work well for this.
• Go through those items and either store, donate, or toss them.
• Move on to the next room and repeat the process. Remember, you don’t have to clean the whole house in one day!

5. After Decluttering, Deep Clean

Performing a deep clean after the holidays isn’t fun but will definitely give your home a fresh, sparkling start. Some areas to remember include:

• The fridge and freezer. Many will be a mess from days (or weeks) of frenetic use.
• Clean and vacuum under the furniture. 
• Strip all beds that were used and wash the sheets and blankets.
• Wash all towels and, if possible, bathroom rugs.
• Dust everything.
• Clean the floors thoroughly, especially if guests have been coming in and out for days.
• Organize your kitchen and pantry.

Consider a Storage Unit to Save Space and Keep Organized

If you’re someone who goes all-out on decorations, or someone who’s hosting their whole family this year, you might need some extra space before and after the holidays. All of your decorations and extra furniture can take up a lot of valuable storage space at home, which is why many homeowners use a storage unit instead. 

Below are a few benefits of storing holiday stuff in a storage unit after you declutter:

• Everything will be safe and secure in a well-lit location. 
• You’ll have much more space at home that you can use for anything you like.
• Your home storage spaces won’t be stuffed full of things you don’t need for 11 months out of the year.
• You can organize your decorations in any way you like, to make decorating next year easier.

You can reserve a storage unit online today for your holiday haul (or anything else), and it will be ready when you arrive. Until then, we at NSA Storage wish you a happy and prosperous new year!

The post 5 Must-Know Strategies for How to Declutter After the Holidays appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

Hosting the holidays can be a big undertaking. If you’re looking forward to hosting this year but want to ditch the chaos and stress, use these tips from NSA Storage for smooth sailing into the New Year! With a little preparation, a stress-free Christmas is possible.

The Most Important Tip: Keep a Positive Mindset

Even if you’re a planning and organizing pro, Christmas can still be stressful. You might run into kinks or mishaps along the way. If you do, the best thing to do is stay positive. 

Nobody is looking for holiday perfection. If your Christmas plans get upended, interrupted, or co-opted, keep these things in mind:

• Take breaks to step away. A moment alone with your thoughts can be very calming.
• Focus on having a good time instead of being hypercritical of yourself.
• If your guests want to help, let them. Some people truly love to pitch in on Christmas.
• Don’t overcommit your time or effort. That goes for shopping, decorating, volunteering, or planning the menu. 

Planning Tips to Stay Ahead of the Christmas Chaos

Professional party planners all agree that, for a stress-free Christmas at home, planning ahead is a must. That includes starting early so that you don’t have to scramble at the last minute. 

Below are some tips designed to help you plan ahead and be ready when Santa arrives:

1. Make a List, and Check It Twice

Using a pen and paper or an app, make a master list of all the tasks you need to complete. Shopping, wrapping, decorating, organizing, the dinner menu, etc. Then check things off as you get them done.

2. Plan the Menu Early

Knowing ahead of time what you plan to cook on Christmas can be extremely helpful. That way, you’ll be able to buy your ingredients, get your kitchen tools organized, and have everything ready.

3. Confirm Your Guests and ask for RSVPs

Cooking for a large number of people takes extra time and effort. Knowing how many will be coming ensures you don’t waste time, energy, or food on Christmas day. How do you do that? Ask everyone to RSVP!

4. Put Together a Timeline

Take the list you made and create a timeline of what you need to do, and when, leading up to Christmas Eve and day. That way, you won’t have to try and do everything in the last one or two days.

Tips for Decluttering and Making Extra Space for Guests

If your home is already filled to the brim, making space and decluttering is a must. After all, your guests need room to breathe, eat, and relax. The tips below will create that extra space:

• Clear out high-traffic areas in your home. That includes the entrance, kitchen, living room, and den.
• Make extra space for everyone’s shoes, coats, hats, gloves, and other clothing items.
• Remove and store anything that isn’t needed on your kitchen counters.
• Clean out your fridge, freezer, and pantry to make room for ingredients and leftovers.

Save Time and Effort with Meal Prep Tips

Unless you’re a seasoned chef, cooking for a large crowd can be a bit overwhelming. If you’re stressed about making Christmas dinner, the meal prep tips below will be very helpful:

1. Prepare Some Recipes and Ingredients Beforehand

Anything you can prepare before Christmas day will help lower your stress levels. Cakes and pies, for example, as well as hors d’oeuvres and side dishes. Many ingredients can be prepped ahead of time, also. This will leave you more time to focus on the big stuff.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

On the days leading up to, and including, Christmas, if you need help, ask for it. Many of your guests will no doubt be eager and happy to help you.

4. Keep Christmas Breakfast Simple

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are when many families are busy serving their biggest meal of the year. On those two days, do yourself a favor and serve a simple breakfast to your guests. Buy some fresh fruit, yogurt, and granola for easy yogurt parfaits, or cereal and milk.

Tips for Preparing Your Guest and Common Rooms

Here are a few tips for prepping your guest rooms and keeping family and friends comfy during Christmas:

• Put out fresh linens
• Make a small basket with common toiletries
• Leave extra TP in the bathroom
• Leave a note with the Wi-Fi and Internet passwords 
• Purchase an air mattress with a built-in air pump

Top Holiday Organization and Storage Tips

Staying organized and keeping things stored correctly is a must during the Christmas holiday. These tips will help:

• Keep everything to wrap and decorate gifts in one spot
• Label everything that’s not easy to identify
• Stock up on reusable plastic food storage containers
• If your home or apartment is truly full of stuff, consider renting a storage unit for a month or two. It’s easy, convenient, affordable, and will free up oodles of space! You can even rent a storage unit to hide Christmas presents.

Store with NSA Storage for the Holidays

Using the tips above should help you stay focused, energized, and, hopefully, less stressed this Christmas. More than that, they will help you to better enjoy yourself and all your people-pleasing preparations. 

At NSA Storage, we can help you prep for Christmas with safe, clean storage units to store all your stuff. Decorations, gifts, extra furniture and more, we can safely store it for you both short or long term. Rent a storage unit today at your local NSA Storage facility or reserve storage units online. Once you do, they’ll be ready to help you make the most of the holiday and magically reduce your stress! Until then, all of us at NSA Storage wish you and yours the Merriest of Christmases and a Happy New Year!

The post Hosting the Holidays: Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas at Home appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

As the holidays approach, many are preparing for large family gatherings and the joy that comes with them. That joy, however, can quickly dissipate if your home is cluttered and unorganized. If you’re feeling holiday stress because your home is a mess, don’t cry in your hot cocoa. NSA Storage has a present for you: our top nine stress-reducing tips for decluttering your home before the holidays! Read on to make this season a clutter-free time of fun, family, and frivolity!

Why is Decluttering Before the Holidays Important?

The holiday season is typically one that’s filled with frenetic activity. There are presents to wrap, food to cook, homes to decorate, and so much shopping! 

If your home is a cluttered mess to start with, adding all the holiday activity can create chaos and confusion. By decluttering, however, you’ll get several benefits before (and after) your guests arrive, including: 

• Less stress- When your home is organized your stress levels will drop (or at least not go up).
• Decorating will be easier- When there’s no clutter in your way it’s easier to put out all your holiday decorations 
• More space for your new stuff- Unless you live with Scrooge, you’ll likely be getting new stuff during the holidays. Having a decluttered home will give you the space to display and store them.
• More space for guests- Guests need some breathing room, and a decluttered house will provide that room.
• A sense of pride- Inviting family and friends into your well-organized home will make you feel good!

1. First, Focus on High-Traffic Spots in Your Home 

High-traffic spots are the spots in your home where guests gather and clutter can be annoying and bothersome. To avoid this, start with those areas first, including:

Entryway

• Put away unused coats, shoes, jackets, bags, and anything else that can get in the way. 
• If possible, add some hooks to hang all the jackets to come.

Mudroom

• Store, toss, or donate anything you don’t need, use, or want.
• Put away detergents, dryer sheets, baskets, etc.

Kitchen

• Clear clutter from all countertops so you’ll have more space for all the cooking to come
• Go through dry goods and toss anything over its date.
• Remember to buy any spices and other ingredients that you’ll use most

Living Room

• Clear off books, magazines, and anything else on coffee and end tables
• Clean and fluff sofa cushions. (Don’t forget to clean underneath the cushions!)
• Store everyday decor that will be replaced by holiday decor
• Clean, dust, and vacuum everything

Guest Room

• Organize closets and dressers to provide extra space for guests
• Clean all linens, especially bed sheets and towels
• Clean up any desks and sitting areas so guests can use them

2. Have Plenty of Containers and Boxes Ready

Decluttering is, essentially, putting away, throwing away, or giving away the stuff you don’t need, want, or use. To do that with less stress, you’ll need containers. They can be boxes, of course, but plastic bins and strong bags also work.

If you have a lot of stuff to store, boxes or plastic bins are best for one reason: they can easily be stacked.

3. Before You Decorate, Un-Decorate

Holiday decorating, for many folks, is one of the most fun and joyful events of the year. Before you start, though, it’s best to take down the decor that’s already there, especially inside your home. That can include things like:

• Pictures and paintings
• Fake plants
• Items on a fireplace mantel
• Throw pillows
• Decorative plates and sconces
• Banners
• Hanging items

4. Prepare a Space for Your Guests

Like you, any guests staying at your place over the holidays will need their space. It doesn’t have to be expansive, but should be at least sufficient. 

A guestroom is best, of course, but not all of us have that luxury. A space in the living room or den works, especially if you have a hide-a-bed. A few things you should have on hand include:

• Fresh sheets
• Bath and hand towels
• Hand soap
• A small table or desk
• A lamp

By the way, if kids are coming, you can always declutter a large closet for them to use. That way they’ll have some space, too, and a place to have some holiday fun!

5. Be Sure to Have Enough Chairs

The last thing you want during a holiday gathering is that some guests have to stand, especially when eating. That’s why making sure you have enough chairs is important. 

These can be regular kitchen chairs, folding chairs, or even bean-bag chairs for the kids. Placing extra chairs in the living room and den is also a good idea. That way, when the after-dinner sleepiness starts, everyone has a place to relax and loosen their belts.

6. Declutter Your Fridge and Freezer Ahead of Time

One last thing about the holidays you need to prepare for is all that food! If you’re like most families, several members will bring their “special” holiday dishes to your gathering. 

Knowing this, it’s best to declutter your fridge and freezer before your guests start arriving. That almost-empty ketchup bottle? Toss it. Leftovers from the last month? In the garbage or the compost pile.

The more space you have before the festivities begin, the better. You’ll find items faster, have room for large serving dishes, and have better access to all those delicious leftovers!

Use NSA Storage for Your Holiday Prep

No matter which holidays you celebrate, having an organized and decluttered home before they begin is extremely helpful. The tips on our list today should help you prepare your home like a pro.

If you find you don’t have enough storage space, a storage unit from NSA Storage can help. Clean, secure, and convenient, we offer storage units in a wide variety of sizes for every need.

Reserve a storage unit online today to start decluttering your home right away. Until then, all of us at NSA Storage wish you the happiest of holidays!

The post Top 9 Tips for Decluttering Your Home Before the Holidays appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

When seasons change most people change their wardrobes at the same time, whether from winter to spring or summer to fall. This seasonal closet swap is necessary, but, for many, it can be a bit overwhelming.

To reduce your stress while you change the way you dress, NSA Storage offers these top tips on how to do an easy seasonal clothing swap. Read on to discover them all and make your next seasonal closet swap a simple, straightforward task.

Tip 1: Declutter Your Closets First

This tip is one given for many different tasks, and is perfect for your next seasonal clothing swap. It’s simple: before you start to swap, declutter all your closets.

The thing is, in most closets, clutter is par for the course, especially for teenagers and younger kids. If you try to swap while everything’s a mess, it can take longer and be more confusing. Instead, do this:

• Toss any clothes that are worn out and no longer wearable. 
• Donate gently used clothes you don’t want any longer.
• Give away clothes you no longer want to friends and family.
• Sell any vintage clothes you don’t want but might be valuable to a collector.
• Arrange everything that’s left by type, color, usage, etc. (That way, you store like with like.)

Tip 2: Have Plenty of Clothing Storage Containers On Hand

Unless you have unlimited closet space, you’ll need to pack up and store the clothes you won’t be needing. To do that, it helps to have plenty of storage containers on hand when you make the swap. For example:

• Wardrobe boxes- These large, double-corrugated boxes are made specifically for hanging clothes. They have a metal bar for hanging and are durable and strong.
• Large, clear plastic bins- You want bins that are clear so that you can see what’s inside. Plastic is also preferred as it will keep out pests and water.
• Long, flat plastic bins with wheels- These are perfect for storing clothes under a bed.
• A vacuum-sealing device- Although not recommended for fine clothes, vacuum-sealing is definitely a space saver. (Hats, gloves, t-shirts, jeans, and more can be stored in a vacuum-sealed bag.) 

Tip 3: Once Your Clothes are Swapped, Organize Your Closet Well 

Now that you’ve removed one season’s clothing from your closet, be sure to organize the current season’s clothes as well as you can. That way, you’ll be able to grab what you want more quickly and easily. Here are a few tips to organize your closet(s) like a pro:

• Group clothes by category. For example, sweaters with sweaters, dresses with dresses, slacks with slacks, etc.
• Use thin hangers for thin clothes. No need to take up space with thick hangers when you don’t need them.
• Use an over-the-door organizer for smaller items, shoes, accessories, etc.
• If you can, add some shelves or hanging drawers for things like socks, belts, and other small clothing items.

Tip 4: Use Pest Deterrents to Keep Your Stored Clothes in Pristine Condition

One of the worst things that can happen to stored clothes is that moths, carpet beetles, or rodents get to them. The damage these critters can cause is often extreme, with large holes that can’t be fixed. Rats and mice can also contaminate otherwise untouched clothes with their dropping and urine. 

To prevent pests from destroying your clothes while they’re stored for the season, you have a few choices:

• Red cedar planks or blocks, which are a natural repellent. You can even find red cedar blocks with hangers to hang between your clothes.
• Sachets filled with lavender, another natural repellent.
• A sachet filled with cinnamon, bay leaves, and cloves.
• Cotton balls with a dab of eucalyptus or peppermint oil on them.

Tip 5: Store Clothes in a Clean, Dry, Dark Area 

Two things that can ruin clothes while they’re stored are moisture and sunlight. That’s why, when you store clothes for the season, you need to find a clean, dry, dark place for them. Here are a few suggestions and a few warnings:

Suggestions:

• If your garage is clean and dry, it’s a good spot.
• The back of a large closet, out of your way.
• A climate-controlled storage unit is a great choice for valuable clothes or large wardrobes. 
• A spare bedroom

Warnings:

• Don’t store clothes in your basement unless it’s very dry. Most basements are simply too damp.
• Your attic is a bad choice as extreme heat can damage many types of material.
• Sheds are often a home for rats and mice, and so not a good idea for storing clothes.

Tip 6: Get the Entire Family Involved

Unless you’re single or have no children, getting everyone involved in your seasonal closet swap is a good idea. Not only will it save you some time and effort, it’s a great way to show your kids how it’s done!

Another reason is that, with your kids in the mix, you’ll be able to see what they’ve outgrown or possibly ruined. Once you do, you can toss or donate those items.

Tip 7: Wash Clothes Before Storing Them

This last tip is one that can make a difference in whether your clothes are good next season or not. It’s a simple one, too: wash them before storing them. 

Here’s the thing; bugs and rodents are attracted to body oils and food residue. You’ll find both on many items of clothes if they’re not washed well. In short, washing will help prevent clothing damage from insects and vermin.

Store Your Clothes At NSA Storage After Your Seasonal Closet Swap

Using the tips above will make your seasonal clothing swap less stressful and more fun. They will also prevent damage to the clothes you put away until next season.

If you find that there’s not enough storage space in your home for your winter or summer clothes, NSA Storage can help. Our clean, safe storage units can be found all over the country. They’re secure, too, so you can spend the season in peace knowing your clothes are in good hands. Reserve your storage unit today and you can start using it right away!

The post Top Tips on How to Do an Easy Seasonal Closet Swap appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

If you have school-age kids, you know that once school starts, everything gets a lot more chaotic at home. With all those backpacks, school projects, sports, homework, and more, it can often be overwhelming. The good news? With a little bit of preparation, planning, and simple habits, you can keep your house organized during the school year with ease. The tips, advice, and hacks below, brought to you by NSA Storage, will prove it! Read on to make this school year the best, most organized year ever!

First, Do a Deep Declutter 

It’s difficult to keep your house organized when there’s clutter everywhere, something that can easily happen over the summer. If yours is a cluttered mess, declutter first before using any of the tips and hacks below. Here are a few examples:

• Go through every child’s clothes and donate anything that no longer fits (or they don’t want).
• If something hasn’t been used in the last 6 months or longer, donate, sell, or toss it.
• Broken items that have no value should be tossed.
• Valuable items that are no longer needed or wanted can be sold on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. Baby furniture, bicycles, sports equipment, fine clothes, etc.
• Toss any expired food and snacks.

Create an Organization System for the Family

Before the school year starts, it’s best to create an organization system for you and your family to use. It can be as simple or complex as you like, and will help make everyone’s daily routine less stressful. Below are a few tips to create yours:

• Use a Calendar– This can be a wall calendar or a calendar app everyone can use on their phone. Whatever you choose, a calendar can help keep track of everything, from events and activities to sports, exams, dances, etc.
• Create and Stay on a Schedule– Schedules can be very helpful for you and your kids. Bedtime, for example, or wake-up time, breakfast, dinner, homework, phone or TV time, etc. Once you make it, stick to your schedule and make sure your kids do, too.
• Assign Everyone their Specific Responsibilities– Assigning specific responsibilities is a powerful way to stay organized and create good routines for your kids. The tasks should be age-appropriate so that even smaller kids can get involved. These can include things like preparing snacks, doing dishes (or loading the dishwasher), filling water bottles, checking homework, etc. Speaking of routines…

Set Up a Weekly Cleaning Routine

One great way to combat the inevitable mess school creates is to create a weekly cleaning routine. Here’s how:

• Pick one Day a Week to Clean and Organize Everything– Choose the best day of the week to fit your family’s schedule. Saturday morning (to get it over with) and Sunday evening (to start the week) are two of the best times.
• Assign Tasks to Every Child– Let the kids know what they need to do so that there are no arguments. Be as specific as possible.
• Declutter Common Usage Areas of Your Home– The entire family should be involved in this, especially the mud-room, kitchen, and entrance.
• Go Through All School Papers– All the kids at once or one at a time, go through to keep, file, or toss their school papers.
• Restock School Supplies– From pencils to potato chips, restock anything the kids need to get through the school day.

If you create a cleaning routine and stick with it, you’ll find it’s easy to keep your house organized. Plus, everyone will be less stressed and better prepared for the week ahead.

Keep School and Other Essentials In a Central Spot

You can waste lots of time in the morning searching for misplaced items. To avoid this and get the kids out the door on-time, use a central spot to store them all. For example:

• School supplies like paper, pencils, markers, etc.
• Snacks and drinks
• School shoes, sneakers, and socks
• Bathroom items like brushes, toothpaste, deodorant, and soap
• Winter clothes like hats, gloves, and galoshes

Label, Label, Label

Labeling can be a godsend if you have more than one child. When something is labeled there’s no way that one child can say it’s theirs when it’s not. This can cut way down on arguments and fights that create chaos on school mornings. Here are a few labeling tips to use:

• Label everything. Books, lunchboxes, water bottles, 3-ring binders, backpacks, you name it.
• Use indelible, permanent markers where possible.
• If you use actual labels, make sure they’re waterproof.
• With several kids, color-coding might work well.

Not only will labeling reduce family friction, it will prevent another student from claiming something is theirs when it’s not.

Weed Through Everything That Comes Into Your Home

A lot of things come into your home during the school year, from permissions slips to flyers, forms, and even food. Before they get spread around your house, get rid of anything that’s not needed, wanted, or used. For example:

• School papers that aren’t needed for grades, permission, or something important.
• Junk mail.
• Arts and crafts that your child doesn’t want or need.
• Food like candy, cake, gum, etc., from school parties.

In the end, anything not essential for your child to thrive in school should get tossed in the garbage.

Set Up a Drop Zone

We’ve talked about drop zones before. It’s a spot, usually near the main family entrance, where backpacks, shoes, jackets, etc., can be “dropped” when the kids get home. For example:

• Hang hooks for backpacks at different heights for different kids.
• Have a bin for shoes and boots.
• Put up some shelves for lunchboxes, gloves, hats, sports gear, etc.

Use NSA Storage to Stay Organized

As we promised, we think you’ll agree that there is a way to keep your house organized during the school year. From drop zones and labels to time-saving routines, today’s tips can make the difference between optimum organization and mind-blowing mess.

If you find you still need more storage space, reserving a storage unit online from NSA Storage can definitely help! Clean, safe, and highly secure, a storage unit can be used to store almost anything. 

If you’re short on storage space at home, storage units can be a blessing. Reserve yours today and, no matter what you decide, have a fantastic school year!

The post How to Keep Your House Organized Throughout the School Year appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

For many families, the end of summer means one thing: a new school year is starting. With that school year comes a lot of new school supplies, from books and backpacks to new clothes and more.

Of course, all the stuff from summer is still strewn all over your house. That can be a problem, as many families struggle with storage space. Your best bet? A “seasonal swap” to store that summer stuff and make room for the new supplies!

If you like the idea of a seasonal swap but aren’t sure where to start, the information below is perfect! Brought to you by the storage experts at NSA Storage, it’s packed with space-saving tips and hacks! Read on to make your seasonal swap, and new school year, a success!

What is a Seasonal Swap?

A seasonal swap is when you swap out all your summer stuff for fall and winter stuff! First, you pack up and store summer things like swimsuits, goggles, pool toys, and summer games. When you’re done, you’ll have space to store the books, school supplies, musical instruments, uniforms, and other school stuff. 

In short, a seasonal swap frees up room to store school supplies well, so you don’t end up with a big, messy, frustrating pile. More importantly, it will make the school year easier on everyone in the family, especially your kids!

Decluttering to Make Space

The first step in a successful season swap is to declutter. This will help you organize, store, donate, and possibly throw away summer items. This, of course, is what also helps free up space for the new school supplies to come. Here’s how:

First, Create Three Piles for Your Summer Stuff:

1. Items to KEEP– These will be stored until next year.
2. Items to DONATE– Items you no longer use or want, but are still in good enough condition to give to Goodwill.
3. Items to TOSS– Broken, damaged, and otherwise useless stuff that can be tossed.

Next, Pack The KEEP Items

• Pack pool toys, games, and floats in large boxes
• Hang goggles, fins and snorkels in mesh bags
• Store summer clothes and swimsuits in plastic bins
• Hang bikes, skateboards, and other gear from garage rafters

Be sure to label everything well so it’s easy to find next summer

Create Spaces Geared Towards Student Success

Now that you’ve decluttered and made space, it’s time to put that space to good use. The goal is to turn it into a space geared towards your child’s success at school. Here are a few tips and hacks to do just that:

• Create a Drop Zone

Drop zones are zones where things can be quickly dropped or hung when arriving home. They include jackets, backpacks, books, etc. Pick a spot close to the main door your kids use when coming and going. That way, the same spot can be used to grab everything as your kids leave for school every morning.

• Make a Supply Station

Students need certain school supplies and tools more than others. Make sure you have them ready with a supply station. This can be a small table, extra cabinet, or rolling cart. Fill it with things like pencils, paper, glue sticks, rubber bands, pens, etc.

• Set Up a Homework Zone

Like a drop zone, a homework zone is where homework is worked on, reviewed, and finished. It can also be left here to be taken in the morning. The zone should be quiet and apart from busy areas to reduce distractions. Good lighting and a comfy chair are also a must.

Tips for a Successful Seasonal Swap

1. Make the Swap a Family Affair

Taking ownership is when anyone, including a child, does something on their own. When they do, it makes it easier to use, enjoy, and appreciate that thing. 

Letting your kids help, for example, set up drop and homework zones, shop for supplies, etc., will give them ownership. It’s a great way to teach them responsibility and instill a sense of pride in what they do for school.

2. Have Boxes, Bins, Tape, and Markers Ready

Organizing before the swap and after means having containers, including boxes, plastic bins, or something else. Tape for the boxes and markers to label everything well are also important to have on hand. They will make your seasonal swap easier and more successful.

3. Create a Central Donation Pile

If you have several kids and a lot to donate, make a central pile somewhere convenient in your home. A big box or heavy-duty garbage bag you can fill are good choices. Then, when anyone has something to donate, they can toss it onto the pile.

Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

Not all homes will have an abundance of storage space, but that’s OK. With a little effort and creativity, you can make room for school supplies even in the smallest of spaces. Here’s how:

• Use low-profile plastic containers with wheels to roll under beds.
• Over-the-door organizers are great for school supplies. (You can even repurpose a shoe organizer!)
• Use stackable plastic bins. That way, you can stack them and use less floor space to store supplies.
• Use a pegboard with hooks and baskets. Your kid(s) can then store their everyday school items off of their desk to have more space to do homework.
• Hang shelves, baskets, and hooks to store and hang stuff like backpacks, supplies, and projects.

NSA Storage Can Help With Your Seasonal Swap

The transition from summer to school is a tough one for everyone. We hope the information provided today will help you and your family ease into the school year without any major issues.

Renting a storage unit for the school year is something many families do these days. When you do, you’ll have a lot of extra space to store your summer stuff. NSA Storage has storage units of all sizes that are safe, clean, and secure. Stay organized this fall with the help of NSA Storage!

The post Seasonal Swap: Making Room in Your Home for School Supplies appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

Why is Back-to-School Organization Important?

The thing about organizing for back-to-school is that it reduces stress for everyone in your family. For your kids, being organized means fewer days being tardy, homework being done on-time, and better overall grades.

For parents, being organized can save you time and energy, reduce sibling rivalries, and ensure your kids do well in school. You’ll spend less time searching frantically for school forms, clothing, backpacks, snacks, books, and all that other school stuff. 

In other words, when you’re organized for back-to-school, you won’t find yourself running around like a silly goose every school day! 

1. Start a Before Bed Preparation Routine

Organization experts agree that preparation is the key to making school mornings less stressful. To do that, one great idea is to start a before bed preparation routine for your kids. For example;

• Have your kids set out the clothes they will wear the night before
• Let the kids pick their snacks 
• Check homework to make sure it’s done and ready
• Have backpacks and water bottles filled and ready to go
• Check and fill-in any important school forms

The better prepared you are before the school day starts, the easier your mornings will be!

2. Use Checklists

Checklists are a parent’s best friend. They help your kids stay on track and help you to know that everything that needs to be done is done. Below is a basic checklist you can copy.

Morning Checklist

• Get out of bed on time
• Shower and brush teeth
• Grab any homework or school forms due that day
• Pack backpacks with books, lunch, and snacks
• Eat a healthy breakfast

3. Set Up a Family Command Center

The larger your family, the more important a “command center” becomes. This is a spot in your home where you can keep track of everything related to school. Using a large whiteboard or pinboard you can;

• Post school start times, and bus pick-up times
• Keep track of after-school activities and sports
• List upcoming special school events and dates
• Have a spot to place finished homework for checking
• List chores that each child needs to handle
• Have a count-down calendar until the next school break

4. Carve Out a Homework Zone in Your Home 

Let’s be honest; most kids don’t like homework. That said, homework is an important part of school. It will help your child do well, get better grades, improve their intelligence, and accomplish more in life.

To help, setting up a “homework zone” can be very helpful. It doesn’t have to be fancy or, frankly, cost you anything, but should;

• Be in a well-lighted area
• Be quiet and away from distractions
• Be stocked with basic school supplies like paper, pencils, scissors, glue, etc.
• Have good access to wi-fi.

Also, let your kids help you set up the homework zone because ownership empowers children. If they set it up, your kids are more likely to use the H-zone rather than avoid it.

5. Put Together a School Supply Station

Once you’ve purchased all of the supplies your kids will need for school, your next task is to set up a supply station. That way, when someone needs something, they don’t have to search, stress, or interrupt your busy day to find it. Your supply station should be stocked with:

• Pencils, pens, crayons, markers, and colored pencils
• Paper
• Glue sticks
• Scissors
• Scotch Tape
• Folders and notebooks
• Stapler or paper clips

6. Have a Designated “Drop Zone” for Backpacks and Finished Homework

Like the supply station, having a drop zone for backpacks and homework is a stress-buster. Again, it doesn’t need to be fancy, but should include:

• Plenty of hooks to hang everyone’s backpack
• A tray or other storage device for homework, permission slips, and other forms
• A rack for shoes and boots

Your drop zone should be near an entrance that everyone uses. That way, as soon as they get home, your kids can drop everything but still stay organized. 

7. Prepare Lunches and Snacks Ahead of Time

Unless your kids get all their food from school, this tip is a no-brainer! By preparing their lunch and snacks the night before, you save yourself a lot of time in the morning.

That’s time you can use to help your kids get dressed, practice for a test, or eat a good breakfast! Here are a few food prep tips to help:

• Have plenty of low-cost plastic food containers on-hand
• Pre-portion snacks like apple slices, grapes, crackers, etc.
• Prep several things and let your kids choose what they want.
• Prepare sandwiches and other time-consuming lunch items the night before.

NSA Storage Can Help You Stay Organized

Going back to school is a rite of passage for kids and their parents every year. We hope the seven back-to-school organization tips provided today will make it easier on everyone, and less of a chore. If you need more storage space this school year for sports equipment, school supplies, holiday decorations, etc., NSA Storage can help! Our clean, safe, and secure storage units come in a wide variety of sizes to suit every need.

You can reserve a storage unit online or visit your local NSA Storage center to get your storage unit today. Until then, best of luck helping your child thrive this school year!

The post 7 Time-Saving Back-to-School Organization Tips for Busy Parents appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

While many Americans spend Labor Day weekend barbecuing or beachcombing, it’s also the ideal time to tackle much-needed home projects. After all, Labor Day is a three-day weekend, which gives you extra time to get projects done without rushing or stressing. If you feel the need to get stuff done this Labor Day but you’re not sure where to start, read on. The ten projects below, brought to you by NSA Storage, are easy to get done in three days, tops!

What Makes Labor Day Weekend a Great Small Project Weekend?

Americans are lucky enough to have several long weekends every year. Labor Day weekend, however, stands out as the perfect project weekend for a couple of reasons.

First, the weather is still warm, which makes tackling outdoor projects easier and more enjoyable. Also, with school, autumn, and the holidays approaching, Labor Day weekend is your last chance to finish any lingering projects. 

1. Power Wash Your Patio, Walkways, or Driveway

Patios, decks, walkways and driveways take a beating from the weather, which can make them look dull and grungy. Labor Day weekend is a great time to get out your power washer and make them look attractive again. Be sure to:

• Wear clothes that can get dirty or stained
• Wear protective shoes
• Use eye protection
• Take your time (You have all weekend!)

2. Organize Your Closets

Labor Day weekend is a great time to organize your closets and make your fall mornings easier. Here’s how:

• Take everything out of your closet first.
• Sort things by type, use, and season.
• Donate or toss anything you don’t use, need, or want.
• Purchase any space saving devices you’d like to use.
• Put things back so that like is with like. (Short sleeves vs long sleeves, summer vs winter, etc.)

3. Prep Your Yard for Fall

While it might still be warm and pleasant on Labor Day weekend, colder weather is on its way. That makes this last weekend of summer a good choice for yard prepping. For example, now is a great time to:

• Trim shrubs, trees, and bushes
• Store plant pots and other summer garden items for winter 
• Mow and trim the lawn and apply any winter fertilizer
• Weed your flower beds
• Store summer garden tools

4. Give Your Kitchen a Deep Clean

With 3 days to do it, Labor Day weekend is the best time to give your kitchen a deep clean. 

• Go through the fridge and freezer and toss anything that’s old or expired. (Or gross.)
• Wipe down all counters, cabinets, and flat surfaces.
• Move appliances and vacuum/clean behind them.
• Clean the crumbs out of toasters
• Organize the cabinets and pantry

5. Donate Unwanted Items to Goodwill

This project is pretty simple; bring anything you want to donate to your local Goodwill. It’s easy, you can get a tax credit for doing so, and it will help people. Plus, once that stuff is gone, you’ll have a lot more storage space in your closets, garage, shed, attic, etc.

6. Refresh Your Bathroom

Bathrooms are usually the smallest rooms in your home, which means they can become cluttered and messy a lot faster. Here are a few tips to refresh your bathroom and make it feel bigger again:

• Throw away old makeup, expired medications, and anything you never use
• Replace old towels with new ones of a different color
• Clean or dust mirrors and fixtures
• Deep clean the entire bathroom

7. Touch Up Your House’s Exterior

A fresh coat of paint is nice, but painting your entire house is a big job. Better to make the job smaller by touching-up rubs, scrapes, and other spots here and there in your home. You’ll need:

• Paint to match each wall’s color
• A good paintbrush
• A wet rag to clean up any drips
• A step ladder for higher spots

8. Clean Out and Organize the Garage

Summer is a busy, often frenetic time for most families, and the garage takes the brunt of all that energy. If yours is like most, it will be a mess by Labor Day, which makes cleaning an organizing a much-needed project. Here are a few tips to help:

• Like your closets, empty the garage as much as possible.
• Sort everything into 3 piles; keep, donate, trash. 
• Donate or trash those items.
• Give the garage a deep clean while everything is outside.
• If you like, purchase organizing items like plastic bins, tool boxes, hooks, hangers, shelves, etc.
• Put everything back in a way that makes it easy to find things when you need them. 

9. Clean Out Your Gutters

This project may or may not be doable for some. If it is for you, though, cleaning the gutters on Labor Day weekend makes a lot of sense. Here’s why:

• They’re probably full after the summer and the debris summer storms create.
• Leaves will be falling soon, so having clean gutters is a must.
• You can put up gutter guards to keep those leaves out.

Be sure to wear gloves and have someone on hand to steady the ladder you use to reach your gutters.

10. Organize Your Holiday Decorations

It might be hard to believe but, once Labor Day arrives, the holidays aren’t far behind. If you decorate for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other holiday, now is a good time to organize your decorations. That way, once your favorite holiday rolls around, you’ll be ready to decorate with less stress and more fun!

Store this Fall at NSA Storage

Labor Day Weekend, as we’ve seen, is practically perfect for pouncing on home projects of all persuasions. It gives you three whole days to get things done, with plenty of time in-between for family fun!

When your project is done, if you find yourself without enough storage space, NSA Storage can help. Once you reserve a storage unit online, you can start storing your stuff right away! Our storage units come in several sizes and are clean, safe, and secure. To all of our customers and friends, we wish you all a fun and exciting Labor Day. Be safe and best of luck with any projects you decide to tackle!  

The post 10 Quick Projects to Knock Out This Labor Day Weekend appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.