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.

The gift-giving season has a way of sneaking up on you, and it’s easy to have a false sense of security around Thanksgiving time. But before you know it, Christmas is less than a month away, and you still need to do your gift shopping. If you’re strapped for time or ideas, don’t worry. NSA Storage has a list of last-minute gift ideas to help you please every friend and family member this year.

What To Do When You’re Running Out of Shopping Time

Running short on time during the holiday season is something almost everyone has encountered. If that’s you, and you’re not sure what to do, these tips will help:

• Choose gifts that are easy to buy and put together.
• Look for gifts that are personal, matching the receiver’s hobbies and lifestyle.
• Keep it simple! It’s the thought that counts.
• Add a heartfelt message or note to each gift. These are often enjoyed by friends and family more than the gift itself!

DIY Gift Ideas

Incorporating the tips above, here are several last-minute gift ideas that you can easily and quickly make yourself at home. A homemade gift is always meaningful because of the time and effort that went into it!

1. Scented Bath Salts– Combine Epsom salt with a few drops of the recipient’s favorite scent such as lavender, peppermint, or almond. Place in a small jar and decorate for a last-minute gift that’s soothing and sensual.

3. Cozy Night Kits– Using a small basket, fill it with a mug, hot cocoa mix, fuzzy socks and some microwave popcorn packages. When it’s done, you’ll have an instant cozy kit they can use on a cold winter’s night!

4. Decorated Candles– Buy some simple, plain, and inexpensive candles at your local discount store. Then decorate them with bows, glitter, holiday stickers, and whatever else floats your holiday boat. Done and done!

5. Painted Pots with Plants– Purchase some plain, terracotta pots with drainage holes and paint them with holiday colors or designs. Then, plant a houseplant inside and gift to your green-thumbed loved one. Many houseplants require little care and flourish in a variety of climates, making them an easy and versatile gift.

6. Personalized Notebook– Ornate journals and notebooks are a fun and practical gift, and making one for your loved one makes it even more special. Buy a plain notebook or journal, some Mod Podge, fabric, and any other decorations you want. Use the Mod Podge to add a custom fabric cover to the notebook, then decorate and personalize.

Edible Gift Ideas

These last-minute gifts are cheap to make and delicious!

1. Infused Olive Oil

• Using a small glass bottle, fill it with your choice of olive oil. (Or any cooking oil your recipient likes.) 
• Next, add spices and herbs like chili flakes, garlic cloves, thyme, rosemary, etc. 
• Label and decorate the bottle(s).
• If possible, let the oil mixture sit for 4 or 5 days before giving.

Note: If your olive oil has contains garlic, be sure to let your recipient know that it should be refrigerated and used within three weeks.

2. Candies Nuts

• Using any nut your recipient likes (or several of them), add brown sugar, the white from one egg, and cinnamon to taste. 
• Mix well and bake for 25 minutes at 300℉.
• Let the nut mix cool.
• Package in a holiday tin or decorated mason jar.

3. Mason Jar Goodies

Take any size mason jar and fill it with treats like Hershey’s Kisses, M&Ms, lollipops, jelly beans, etc. Then, decorate and pop on a bow! Voila! You’ve got an easy, tasty, colorful gift to give your favorite person.

Gifts that Deliver an Experience

If you’re buying for someone who doesn’t need any material things, buying them an experience might be the way to go. Here are some ideas for that person who has everything:

9. Subscriptions

Unlike yesterday’s magazine subscriptions, today there are subscriptions for just about anything. That includes, for example, audiobooks, movies, restaurants, and even “treats of the world”. Not only will these last-minute gifts give thrills when opened, they give them again each month!

10. Events and Classes

Concerts, shows, classes, and more; if your gift recipient loves live events of one kind or another, a ticket to one will be the perfect gift! The memories made at the event are worth more than any material gift you could give.

11. Customized Gift Cards 

Gift cards, as some say, are “too easy” and lack any real thought. When you customize a gift card, however, you raise it to another level! For example:

• Put a restaurant gift card into a holiday card that’s been decorated and labeled as “Open In Case of Emergency Date Night”.
• Research local businesses where they live and purchase a giftcard from there. That way, your gift shows thought while also supporting a local business.
• Wrap a box of microwave popcorn packages and place a movie (or streaming service) gift card on top. 

How To Keep Your Gifts and Wrapping Supplies Well Organized

When the holidays are over, most gift wrapping supplies get shoved in a closet or under a bed, leading to wrinkled or ripped wrapping paper that isn’t usable next year. To keep your supplies in good condition and out of the way, try these tips:

• Purchase a long, plastic storage container for wrapping paper. 
• Reuse when possible! Save sturdy boxes and beautiful bags in a large, clear plastic bin to use next year.
• Keep tape, bows, and ribbons together in a small container or sealable bag.

If you truly have a lot of holiday supplies, or decorations, consider renting a small self-storage unit. You’ll save lots of space at home while knowing that everything is safe, secure, and accessible.

NSA Storage Can Give You Extra Space This Holiday Season

Hopefully these last-minute gift ideas have given you the inspiration and collaboration you were looking for today. More importantly, we hope they lower your holiday stress and lock-in your gift-giving plans! 

If you need extra space before, during, or after the season, NSA Storage is ready to help. Our secure storage units are safe and convenient, and come in several sizes to fit your needs perfectly.

Reserve a storage unit online today and you can start using it ASAP! Until then, best of luck finishing your holiday shopping on time!

The post Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Everyone on Your List appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

As Christmas approaches, many parents are buying presents and wondering how to keep them secret until Christmas day arrives. It’s not always easy, especially with curious kids snooping in every corner when their parents aren’t looking. You might need to get creative this year, and NSA Storage can help. These Christmas present hiding spots are sure to stump your kids and keep your gifts a secret.

7 Christmas Present Hiding Spots They’ll Never Guess

1. Use a Decoy Box

Many of us keep the boxes from things like electronics or appliances. Wherever you stash your Christmas gifts, put them inside one of those boxes as a decoy. A new toy in the box from your toaster? Perfect! Kids who are searching for presents won’t look any further into boring boxes under the bed.

2. Hidden Storage in Furniture

Do you have furniture with a hidden compartment, like an ottoman or bench? Use that hidden storage space to hide your gifts, as long as your kids don’t know about it. You can also:

• Put gifts on top of tall furniture, like a dining room hutch, bookshelf, or buffet.
• Hide gifts behind or under a large sofa or love seat.
• Place gifts under blankets in a blanket chest.
• Slide flat items (like a poster) behind a dresser.

3. Store in a Suitcase

If you travel you likely have at least one suitcase, if not several. These are great for hiding Christmas presents as they’re usually stored in a closet, attic, or basement, and don’t need to be opened unless you’re getting ready to travel. Here are a few gift hiding tips using suitcases:

• Use the zippered pocket inside the suitcase to hide small gifts.
• Put the gift in a small suitcase and then nest it into another, bigger suitcase for extra protection
• If possible, lock your suitcase.
• Put the suitcase you used on the bottom of the suitcase pile.

4. Hide in High Places

This hiding spot is best when you have small children that can’t climb or use a step-stool yet. Here are a few suggestions:

• On the highest shelf in your closet.
• Above the cabinets in your kitchen.
• On top (and towards the back) of your refrigerator.
• The attic, if it’s accessible and not extremely hot or cold.

5. Make Fake Labels for Your Hiding Spots

In some homes you need to throw curious kids and nosy family members off the gift trail. To do that, use false labels! For example, mark a storage container with label that says “Halloween Decorations” and stash your presents inside.

6. Use an Everyday Item as a Hiding Spot

Here are a few everyday items that would make a perfect spot to hide Christmas gifts until the big day:

• Place a small gift inside a folded towel, and place that towel at the bottom of the towel pile in your linen closet.
• Hide a present inside an old board game that’s never played.
• Using a large container to hold food for a pet? Put the gift in a plastic bag and bury it under the food!
• Stash gifts under summer clothes that are going into storage until next year.
• Hide a Christmas gift inside a large pot in the back of your kitchen cabinets.

7. Keep Track of Your Hidden Gifts

The last thing you want after going through all this effort to hide gifts is to forget one or more of them. To avoid this, use these tips:

• Create a list on your phone as you go.
• Write down everything and hide your list in a book on your bookshelf.
• Share your completed list via phone with a friend. If you’re worried about your kids looking through your phone, delete the message and have your friend send it back to you on Christmas Eve!

Renting a Self-Storage Unit to Hide Christmas Presents

Frankly, most folks won’t need something as spacious and secure as a storage unit to hide their Christmas gifts. On the other hand, renting a storage unit might be the perfect solution if:

• You have large gifts to give, like bicycles, exercise equipment, a canoe, or even a new car.
• You buy your gifts far in advance and don’t have options to hide them successfully at home.
• Keeping a large number of gifts organized as well as hidden is your goal.
• You live in a small house or apartment and simply don’t have the space.

If you’re facing one of these challenges, reserving a storage unit might be the perfect solution. You’ll have all the space you need in a safe location that nobody can access but you! With NSA Storage, you can rent a storage unit for as many, or few, months as you like. For example, if you only want it for November and December, you can get a storage unit for only those two months.

If these Christmas present hiding spots have been helpful, get hiding! From our family at NSA Storage to yours, Happy Holidays!

The post Top 7 Christmas Present Hiding Spots appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

Thanksgiving is the biggest and best dinner of the year, with most folks pulling out all the stops. In many households, though, Thanksgiving leftovers are where the true magic happens. After all, there’s so much of all your favorite foods that giving them a 2nd (and 3rd, and 4th) act is a must!

Turkey sandwiches are great, but if you’re ready for something different, this blog is for you! It’s a list of creative Thanksgiving leftover ideas your whole family will love, brought to you by NSA Storage!

What Makes Thanksgiving Leftovers So Special?

The best thing about Thanksgiving dinner is that it includes so many of our favorite foods. Turkey and ham, glazed carrots, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes; the list goes on and on, with every household serving their most cherished treats!

Leftovers are great for after the holidays when you’re feeling wiped out from all the cooking. All of those foods are now cooked and ready to use as leftover ingredients in something quick, easy, and tasty! That saves you time, effort, and money, and allows you to experiment on a budget and discover new flavors!

Classic Leftover Recipes for Turkey

There’s no denying that, in many American households, turkey is the star of the Thanksgiving meal. That also makes it the star of your leftover cavalcade of concoctions, including the delicious ones below:

1. Grilled Cheese with Turkey and Cranberry Sauce

This easy and tasty treat combines turkey, cranberry sauce, and a slice or two of your favorite cheese. Place everything between two slices of heart bread and grill them for a new kind of grilled cheese!

2. Fried Rice, Thanksgiving Style

For this leftover recipe, chop some turkey into small bits. Then scramble two eggs and toss in any leftover vegetables from Thanksgiving dinner. Add rice and fry it all up in a wok for a Thanksgiving take on fried rice!

3. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Like traditional shepherd’s pie, this is the ultimate comfort food, especially on a cold November or December day! It’s easy, too! Simply combine chopped turkey, vegetables, and gravy, then pour them all into a pre-made pie crust. Cover with a layer of mashed potatoes and bake for about 20 minutes. Delicious!

4. Turkey Soup

A recipe the whole family can enjoy on chilly autumn days, turkey soup is an annual favorite! Gently cook your leftover turkey, including the bones, along with leftover vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery. As that’s cooking, boil a pot of your favorite noodles, and combine the two when ready. It’s super easy and can stay in the fridge for up to a week, keeping you and your family warm, well-fed, and satisfied!

Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas for the Kids

Leftovers and kids can often be a difficult combination, especially when your kids are picky eaters. That said, there are several kid-pleasing recipes you can create with thanksgiving leftovers, including the ones below:

1. Mashed Potato Pancakes

Kids love pancakes and mashed potatoes, so this combination is a no brainer. Combine mashed potatoes with some flour, shredded cheese, and an egg. Then, shape them into “pancakes” and fry in butter until both sides are golden brown.

2. Turkey Sliders

Dinner rolls are the perfect “bun” for turkey sliders. Grease a pan, place the base of a bun down, and cover with a slice of cheese. Then, place slices of turkey on top, and more cheese, before covering with the top of the bun. Bake for about ten minutes for a quick snack while watching the game!

3. Stuffed Muffins

Muffins made from stuffing? Yes, please! First, scoop some stuffing into a muffin tin. Next, crack an egg over the top of each muffin, then bake until the egg is cooked through. Fun to make, these muffins are also full of protein and very satisfying.

4. Turkey Tacos

Tacos are a treat kids love. Making them with leftover Thanksgiving turkey makes perfect sense, and using leftover lettuce, tomatoes, and guacamole even more. The kids can then top them with leftover cranberry sauce or gravy for an easy snack or light lunch! 

How to Store Thanksgiving Leftovers Safely

The most important thing to remember when making your Thanksgiving leftover plans is to store them safely right away. After all, you can’t enjoy the fruits of your labor if they spoil. To be sure they don’t, follow these leftover food storage tips:

• Don’t Wait to Refrigerate– Germs and bacteria can form quickly on food, especially turkey and other meats. Experts recommend refrigerating everything within 2 hours after your Thanksgiving meal has ended, if not sooner. 
• Use the Correct Containers– Airtight containers are the best way to store leftovers, especially if you plan to freeze them. If you use plastic wrap, be sure it adheres firmly so your food doesn’t dry out. Vacuum food storage devices are also a good way to store Thanksgiving leftovers.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Freeze– If you have too much turkey, mashed potatoes, and other foods to eat, don’t be afraid to freeze some of it. Most Thanksgiving food will freeze just fine in the correct containers and help you create easy leftover meals weeks after the holiday ends!

Store this Holiday Season with NSA Storage

Thanksgiving features some of our favorite comfort foods, making it the perfect time for some creative leftover recipes. Using the Thanksgiving leftover ideas above, turning this year’s leftovers into delicious new meals is easy!

If you need extra storage space for your holiday decorations, party furniture, and summer clothes, NSA Storage has your back! Our clean, safe storage units also feature top security measures, to make storage easy and convenient.

You can reserve a storage unit online any day of the week and it will be ready to use right away and help you free up some space at home. Until then, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, and safe travels!

The post Creative Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas the Whole Family Will Love appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

On Veterans Day, America reflects the sacrifice and courage of the brave men and women who have served in our military. This holiday is the perfect reminder of how much our veterans matter, and what they’ve given for our freedom.

While you prepare to celebrate Veterans Day this year, you might be thinking about how to involve the entire family. This guide will give you all of the ideas you need to get your family involved in the day’s celebrations, brought to you by NSA Storage.

What Makes Veterans Day Important to Celebrate with Family?

Veterans Day is one of the best days to celebrate with every generation of your family, especially if you have a veteran in your family. It’s truly a day when parents, their kids, and their grandparents can all reflect together. For example:

• You can teach kids about history in a way that has true meaning for them.
• Your family memories can, in time, become family traditions.
• You can connect with your community through a shared respect for veterans.

When you intertwine family traditions with Veterans Day, your children will learn values like respect and gratitude.

How To Teach Kids about Veterans Day

Every parent knows that the hardest part of teaching children anything is keeping them engaged in the process of learning. Short attention spans can be difficult to combat, but here are a few ways to get them involved and hopefully keep their focus on the holiday:

• Watch videos about the meaning of the day. You can find age-appropriate videos online that explain the holiday and make it fun!
• Visit local memorials in your town. These bring history to life in a way most other things can’t.
• Share stories with your children about family members who served. This makes it much more personal for them.
• Crafting and art projects can be a great hands-on way to celebrate.

Honoring the Veterans in Your Life

Many families have someone who has served. On Veterans Day, honoring these folks is beautiful and kind, even if it’s just a small gesture. Here are a few ways to do exactly that:

• Create a scrapbook– Scrapbooks filled with pictures, letters, medals, and more, are a wonderful way to honor a veteran.
• Give a vet a call– Getting a phone call from someone saying “thank you for your service” is always a treat for any veteran.
• Invite a veteran to dinner– Cook a nice meal and share it with a local veteran.
• Have a Veterans Day party– Getting together with family, friends, and veterans to celebrate is the perfect way to celebrate.
• Write personalized letters to veterans– This is a fun and interesting activity for your kids. They can write their “thank you’s” and create drawings to lift a vet’s spirits.

Simple but Meaningful Veterans Day Plans for the Family

There are many events and activities you can enjoy on Veterans Day with your family. Many of them are fun and exciting enough to put on your annual “to do” list, including:

• Fundraisers– Fundraisers support veterans while also giving you a chance to spend meaningful time with your family.
• Community Programs– Many communities invite veterans to speak to the community about their experiences.
• Charity Walks or Runs– Get some exercise while raising money to support veterans in your community.
• Memorial Ceremonies– They may be solemn but these ceremonies often are the most powerful and memorable, especially if you have lost a family member who served.
• Veterans Day Parades– Parades are fun while also keeping our veterans in our thoughts.
• School Programs– Many schools across the nation have programs to teach youngsters about the sacrifices made by our veterans.
• Donate Clothes– Many veterans need help buying basics like clothes. Donating gently used (or new) clothes to a veterans shelter can help them greatly.
• Send Care Packages– Who doesn’t like receiving a care package filled to the brim with goodies?
• Deliver Meals to Vets– There’s nothing better than a nice meal for a veteran, especially one who’s having financial stress.

How To Create Your Own Family Traditions

Like other holidays, you can create your own traditions for Veterans Day. Not only will they give everyone something to look forward to, they also reinforce important values like duty, honor, and sacrifice. Below are a few excellent ideas to create your own traditions:

• Light a candle for each fallen hero in your family.
• Volunteer. Soup kitchens and shelters always need people to lend a hand.
• Cook a patriotic meal for your family and invite local veterans you know to come and enjoy it.
• Watch the National Veterans Day Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery together with your kids.
• Gather family and friends for a flag hoisting ceremony on the morning of Veterans Day.

Store This Season with NSA Storage

Veterans Day, at its heart, is a day to express our gratitude for veterans everywhere. Doing it as a family is even more powerful thanks to the lessons and memories it can create. Together, these traditions bring families, friends, and communities closer, while also supporting veterans.

If you need a storage unit this holiday season, contact us today. You can also reserve a storage unit online at hundreds of locations across the United States. Happy Veterans Day from NSA Storage!

The post Celebrating Veterans Day With The Whole Family appeared first on NSA Storage Blog.

Whether it’s summer vacation, the holiday season, or another time of year, having overnight guests in your home can be exciting and memorable. Being able to spend quality time with friends and family is always a treat.

Truth be told, though, having guests can also be stressful, especially if you’re not prepared. Too few towels, not enough toilet paper, or a lack of sheets can be problematic, especially at the end of a long day.

To prevent this stress and keep your guests happy and comfortable, NSA Storage presents the following guide. In it you’ll discover how to prep guest rooms for family and friends. Read on to make sure their visit is joyful, and your stress levels stay low.

Stock Up on Essentials Before Guests Arrive

Having guests over increases the need for a few very specific items in your home. To keep everyone happy and comfy, it’s best to stock up on these items before your family and friends arrive. These include:

• Toilet paper, tissues, and paper towels
• Bath towels of various sizes
• Fresh linens and blankets
• Toiletries like soap, shampoo, and toothpaste

Add Personal Touches to Make Guests Feel at Home

The nicest thing you can do for your guests is make them feel “at home” in your home. One way to do that is to add some personal touches to their temporary living space. These will make your guests feel wanted and loved, including:

• A scented candle or an essential oil diffuser
• A heavy blanket for chilly nights or to cozy up on the sofa
• Some books or magazines that focus on things they care about.
• A pretty flower arrangement

Declutter Your Guest Room and Closet

If you don’t have many guests you might end up using your guest room to store stuff, or as a catch-all. If that’s the case, you’ll want to declutter before everyone arrives. For example:

• Make some room on the hanging bar(s) in the guest room closet.
• Empty a few drawers for guests to use in any dressers or night stands in the guest room.
• Clear off the guest room desk if you have one, so your guests can work, study, or set up a laptop computer.
• Box up things like toys, sports equipment, loose clothes, etc., and stack them out of the way.
• If needed, vacuum, dust and otherwise clean the room.

Special Touches You Can Make to The Guest Room

What we’ve provided so far are good but, to be honest, rather mundane tips. The special touches we talk about, below, will take your guest room prep to the next level!

-Provide Guests a Charging Station

Most folks these days travel with at least one electronic device, if not two or three. Providing a charging station for their devices is a nice touch that will be much appreciated.

-Make Your Guests a “Welcome Basket”

Wherever you live, there are no doubt some local places with local goods such as farmers markets and flea markets. Making a basket filled with local goodies will be a wonderful treat for your guests.

-Offer Several Types of Bed Pillow

Some people love a nice, soft, squishy pillow. Others prefer one that’s more firm, or flat, or fluffy. Whatever they like, if you offer several pillow types to your guests they will sleep better while visiting.

-Have Sleep Aids Available for Noise or Light-Sensitive Guests

Some family and friends will no doubt have sensitivity to light, sound, or both. For them, providing a few sleep aids will go far toward making their stay comfortable. For example:

• A white noise machine to cover up nighttime noises
• A “blackout” curtain to minimize both natural and manmade light 
• A night light
• A bluetooth speaker

-Frame the Wi-Fi Password and Hang It on the Wall

Everyone wants to be online, including your guests. To help them get there, print out your Wi-Fi password, frame it, and hang it where it will be easy to spot. That way, they won’t have to keep asking, bother you late at night, or miss their favorite podcast.

-Provide a Foldable Stand for Suitcases

Depending on how long they stay, some guests might “live out of their suitcase”. To make that easier, have a foldable stand ready. That will bring the suitcase up to a comfortable level and make getting dressed easier and less stressful.

-Fill a Large Bowl With Their Favorite Snacks

If you know your guests well, you probably know some of their favorite snacks. If that’s the case, fill a bowl or other container with those snacks, including drinks. This special touch is even better when your guests are children, tweens, or teens.

Rent a Storage Unit to Free Up Even More Space

If you live in a smaller home or apartment, you know that space is at a premium. Having guests over in this case will still be enjoyable but might be extremely cramped and uncomfortable. To free up space, consider renting a storage unit for a month or two. That way, you can move a bunch of extra, unneeded stuff to your storage unit and have lots of extra room at home.

At NSA Storage, you can rent a storage unit for as long, or short, as you like. Why? Because we don’t have long-term storage contracts. You can rent for a single month, two months, six months, or whatever you need. That means you won’t ever be stuck in a contract that you don’t need. See our FAQ page for more information.

Hosting friends and family in your home is one of the great joys of life. Being prepped to host makes that time together more enjoyable and comfortable. Free up extra space with NSA Storage and have a stress-free holiday season!

The post Guest-Ready Home: How to Prep Guest Rooms for the Holidays 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.