{"id":2320,"date":"2022-09-08T21:21:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-08T21:21:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ssdcmoving.local\/?p=2320"},"modified":"2026-03-24T15:52:22","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T15:52:22","slug":"how-to-clean-out-a-storage-unit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.selfstorage.com\/blog\/how-to-clean-out-a-storage-unit\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Clean Out a Storage Unit: Step-by-Step Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you\u2019ve spent any amount of time browsing SelfStorage.com<\/a>, you know how useful and cost-effective a good self-storage facility can be for saving space in your home. However, if you\u2019re not following the best practices to organize and regularly check on your unit, you can easily wind up with an unwieldy, cluttered mess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thankfully, there are plenty of steps to clean up your unit, whether you need to get it unpacked to move out or you just need to get your clutter back in order. In this article, we\u2019ll go over some steps to reorganize and declutter your unit with a minimum of fuss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Steps to Clean Out a Storage Unit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Infographics<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Step 1: Make a List of Everything Inside<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

We recommend making a comprehensive list of what you\u2019re storing<\/a> early on in the storage process and labeling your boxes as you pack them, but if you haven\u2019t done this yet, better late than never. Go through your unit (even if it\u2019s messy) and write or type up a list of everything you\u2019ve got stored, and clearly label each of your boxes so it\u2019s easy for you to tell what\u2019s inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The clearer the list, the easier it will be for you to clean up your unit. You can also use your list to determine which items you might need to get rid of, donate, or sell\u2013this list of the most common items found in storage unit auctions<\/a> can help you identify items to make a little extra money.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 2: Sort Your List and Make a Plan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Once you\u2019ve got your list in hand, use it to determine what items in your storage unit you can reasonably get rid of, then break that list down into what you want to sell, donate<\/a>, and throw away. This sorted list will make it easier for you to draw up a game plan for cleaning out the unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Draw up a timeline for your cleaning project, make a list of supplies you might need while cleaning<\/a>, and figure out how much help you\u2019ll need to make the job easier. A very big job may require you to rent a truck or other moving equipment, so draw up a budget as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 3: Schedule Donation Pickups<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Depending on how much you plan on donating and what items you have on hand, you may need to schedule a pickup at a charity drop-off ahead of time. Organizations such as Habitat for Humanity<\/a> and Goodwill, as well as smaller local charities<\/a> and thrift shops, will often allow you to schedule a free pickup<\/a> for large items like furniture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A smaller donation can often be dropped off without any warning, only requiring you to drive up to the location while they\u2019re open and pick up a tax-deductible receipt. Just remember to carefully research items that charities don\u2019t accept, such as mattresses.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 4: Enlist Help<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If it\u2019s within your budget, you should consider hiring a moving company<\/a> or cleaning service to assist you in cleaning out your unit, especially if you\u2019re going to be completely emptying it. Companies such as College Hunks Hauling Junk, LoadUp,<\/a> or The Junk Luggers<\/a> are all solid choices to help you sort through your items and throw away anything you can\u2019t keep, sell, or donate\u2013compare some of the best companies here.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, it\u2019s also worth asking friends and family if they\u2019re available, able, and willing to help you clean out your storage unit. Doing this can help you save money on your cleaning process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 5: Set Aside Items to Sell<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are plenty of items that you can make a little extra money by selling, rather than donating or throwing them away. Collectibles, good-quality furniture, electronics, baby items<\/a>, and other valuables can be sold on websites such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n