Tailgate Ready: Storing Your Gear in a West Valley Storage Unit the Right Way
April R.
October 17th, 2023
College football and tailgating go together like apple pie and ice cream. This beloved American pastime is a celebrated tradition where sports fans, friends, and families come together to cheer on their favorite teams.
But as the seasons change, and game days become less frequent, the challenge becomes finding a safe and convenient way to store all your tailgate equipment.
This is where your West Valley storage units come into play. Granite Mountain Storage offers a secure and organized solution to keep your tailgate gear ready for action. In this blog, we'll guide you on how to properly store your tailgate equipment in a self-storage unit, ensuring your next pre-game party goes off without a hitch.
1. Preparing Your Equipment for Storage
Before you start packing everything away, it's crucial to prepare your tailgate equipment properly to keep it from getting damaged while in storage. Here's what you need to do:
- Clean Everything Thoroughly: Start by cleaning all your equipment, from your grill to your chairs and even the cooler. Remove any food remnants, stains, or dirt. A clean start will prevent any lingering odors or pests in your storage unit.
- Dry It Out: Make sure everything is completely dry before storing it. Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, and you don't want to open your storage unit to a nasty surprise.
- Check for Repairs: Inspect your gear for any damage or issues that need fixing. This is the perfect time to repair broken chairs, rusted grills, or damaged tents before storing them.
- Organize and Label: Group similar items together and label them clearly. This will make it easier to find what you need when you're ready to hit the tailgating scene again.
2. Choosing the Right Storage Unit
Selecting the right storage unit is crucial for a successful tailgate equipment storage experience. Consider the following factors:
- Size Matters: Calculate how much space you'll need for your gear. Depending on the size of your tailgating equipment, you may need a small 5x5 unit or a larger 10x10 one. Make sure you leave some space for easy access.
- Temperature Control: If you're storing sensitive items, such as electronics, consider a temperature-controlled unit. This will help protect your equipment from extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Location: Choose a storage facility that is conveniently located. It doesn’t need to be next door, but it should be close enough for easy access when you need to retrieve your gear and not so far that it's a hassle to get there.
3. Packing Your Equipment
Now that you've got the perfect storage unit, it's time to pack your tailgate gear thoughtfully:
- Disassemble When Possible: Break down items into smaller components when you can. For instance, disassemble your grill, fold up chairs, and stack tables. This will help you optimize space in your storage unit.
- Use Appropriate Packaging: Invest in storage bins, boxes, and bags to keep your equipment organized and protected. Avoid using plastic bags as they can trap moisture and lead to mold or mildew.
- Stack Smartly: Place heavier and more durable items at the bottom of your storage unit. Lighter, more fragile items should be on top. This prevents damage and makes it easier to access what you need without having to dig through everything.
- Protect Fragile Items: For items like glassware or electronics, wrap them in bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent breakage during transport or storage.
4. Storing Your Equipment Safely
Proper storage is essential for keeping your tailgate equipment in top condition:
- Elevate Items: If your storage unit is not temperature-controlled, consider elevating your gear on pallets or shelves to keep them off the ground. This helps prevent damage from potential floods or pests.
- Maintain Adequate Ventilation: Ensure that your storage unit has proper ventilation to minimize humidity and condensation, which can lead to mold and mildew.
- Secure Your Unit: Invest in a sturdy lock for your storage unit to deter theft. Many storage facilities offer 24/7 security and surveillance, but an additional lock adds an extra layer of protection.
- Create Aisle Space: Leave enough space to create aisles within your storage unit. This makes it easier to access items without having to move everything around.
5. Regular Maintenance
Just because your equipment is safely stored away doesn't mean you can forget about it. Regular maintenance will ensure everything is in excellent condition when you need it:
- Periodic Check-Ups: Visit your storage unit every few months to check on your gear. Ensure that no pests have infiltrated, that everything is in its place, and that there are no signs of damage.
- Cleaning and Reorganization: If necessary, clean and reorganize your equipment as you go along. This will make your gear readily accessible and ready to use.
- Update Your Inventory: Maintain an inventory list of what's in your storage unit. Update it whenever you remove or add items. This will help you keep track of your gear and ensure nothing goes missing.
Storing your tailgate equipment in your West Valley storage unit can be the perfect solution to keep your gear organized, safe, and ready for the next big game. By properly preparing your equipment, choosing the right storage unit, packing thoughtfully, and practicing regular maintenance, you can ensure your tailgating experience remains hassle-free and enjoyable. So, when game day comes around again, you'll be ready to fire up the grill, cheer on your team, and create lasting memories.
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