The back of your closet can be very scary. Your favorite costumes collect cobwebs and gather dust while they wait for another Halloween here in Baton Rouge, LA. Self storage can save the spookiest wardrobe from wasting away by treating it to these easy tricks.

Keep It Clean

Take an important tip from our very own Theatre Baton Rouge, and always clean your costumes at the end of each season. Here's how our local thespians do it before they transfer stage-worn items to their storage units:

• Launder linen and cotton items in the gentle cycle with cold water.
• Save delicate detailing by turning things inside out before washing.
• Let costumes air-dry to avoid any chance of shrinkage and discoloration in a hot dryer.
• If you're not sure about how to treat costume fabric, ask a dry cleaning professional for advice.

Hang It with Care

Whether it's your costume for Evil Dead cosplay or ghostly garb for the downtown Halloween Parade, it deserves a proper hanging in self storage. You can invest in wardrobe bags or conjure up your own inexpensive covers in these ways:

• Pad hangers with generous layers of muslin or quilt batting to support fabric.
• Make garment bags from twin or queen sheets folded in half and sewn up one side.
• Increase your handmade covers' protection factor by adding drawstrings to tops and bottoms.
• Don't smother hanging costumes with plastic bags that seal out fresh air.
• Store your wardrobe on wheeled racks draped with sheets to ward off dust.

Watch the Devil in the Details

When the kids' outfits from their first Boo at the Zoo Day turn into precious keepsakes, archive those memories along with other costume treasures. Protect their little masks and your witches' hats with these storage strategies:

• Transform old pillow cases into costume catch-all bags with drawstring closers.
• Cushion small items by wrapping them in acid-free tissue paper, and store them in lidded plastic bins.
• Save hats and accessories from getting crushed by stuffing them with bubble wrap.
• Keep your costume collection refreshed by refolding and rotating things several times a year. 

We Make Magic Happen

Imagine never being afraid of beloved disguises falling prey to spider webs and hungry moths. Picture your finest getups stashed in the climate-controlled environment of our storage units. Let Safeguard Self Storage make the magic happen with our Baton Rouge, LA locations. Store with us, and save your costumes from the scariest depths of your dark closets.

The end of summer means our Chicagoland sizzle is almost over, but it also means our seasonal snows are just a few calendar pages away. Start thinking about winterizing your favorite rides now, and you'll be ready to roll everything into self storage before Bridgeview, IL freezes over.

Move the Motorcycle Inside

The Veteran's Run from our Bridgeview Courthouse doesn't signal the end of summer, but plenty of area cycles will head for nearby storage units over the next few months. Don't put your bike at risk by leaving it outside all winter.

• Get the bike ready for storage by removing oil, brake fluid and antifreeze.
• Disconnect the battery, and store it on shelving in your storage unit.
• Keep motorcycle wheels off concrete flooring with a wooden pallet.
• Invest in a quality cover to protect engine components from dust.

Secure the Boat From Snow

When the chill off Lake Michigan chases you in for the winter, say goodbye to stalking largemouth bass. Say hello to staking out self storage that keeps your boat shipshape until spring.

• Clean your watercraft inside and out, and make sure everything's dry to prevent mold and mildew.
• Change out antifreeze and oil, and use fogging oil to protect engine components.
• Remove the battery, and keep it dry and off the ground.
• Support the hull with a cradle, jack stands or blocks.
• Pamper your boat with a final waxing and a ventilated canvas cover.

Keep the Car Warm This Winter

If you have an extra car that needs to hibernate away from home, you can go with outdoor parking options at a fully gated storage facility. If the city turns into Chiberia (Chicago + Siberia) again this winter, you might prefer a drive-up indoor unit. In or out, give your wheels a little love and attention before long-term storage.

• Change the oil, top off the tank, and add fuel stabilizer. (Outdoor Storage Only)
• Flush and replace brake fluid with a silicone-based fluid.
• Inflate tires to maximum PSI, and disconnect the battery.
• Clean and detail the car from roof to undercarriage.
• Protect it with a quality car cover that breathes.

Stay Ready to Roll

It doesn't take a snowpocalypse to make storage units your best choice for protecting vehicles from winter weather. Safeguard Self Storage offers harbor for boats, cycles, and wheels with drive-up units and outdoor parking in Bridgeview, IL. Store your favorite rides with us, and you'll be ready to roll come spring.

The city is finally starting to cool down, so join your West Rogers Park neighbors in saying goodbye to summer heat. As you make plans for enjoying the fall days, make extra room around the house, too. Start shifting your summer things into self storage where Chicago, IL residents hibernate all their warm-weather stuff.

Clean Out Crowded Closets

If you aren't going to wear it or use it come fall, put it on your list of belongings that belong in winter storage. Clean out crowded closets and clear cluttered shelves with these self storage strategies.

• Keep summer clothes wrinkle-free in storage with wheeled hanger units.
• Lightweight bedding stays fresh in plastic bins with snug-fitting lids.
• Shuffle sandals, flip-flops and slip-ons off to storage in summer canvas totes.

Reclaim Lost Garage Space

When it's time to break out home snow shoveling equipment, you want plenty of garage space. Don't let these summer things crowd you or the car after winter sets in.

• Store fishing rods in your unit until the next spring trip to West Ridge Preserve.
• Pitch your tent in with that fishing gear to free up even more room in the garage.
• Stash seasonal lawn equipment out of the way in your unit.
• Roll the family bike collection on over to cold-weather storage.

Save Backyard Stuff from Impending Snow

When it's too cold to shoot hoops at Warren Park, you'll be glad your outdoor toys are spending winter in storage. Look around the backyard for other stuff that needs protection from Chicago's freezing temperatures.

• The inflatable pool will last longer if it gets to spend winter in your storage unit.
• Make sure the grill fires up next spring by storing it away now.
• Keep outdoor furniture safely sheltered inside a climate-controlled unit.

Stay Smart with Fall Storage

Once you get the drift of fall storage, it's a great seasonal routine for keeping everything organized. Switching out summer stuff and winter gear frees up space all around your home. It's a smart storage strategy that leaves you with more room around the house year-round.

Shift into Fall With Us

We're looking forward to cooler weather too, and we're ready to take care of your summer things with the best storage solutions in Chicago, IL. Our West Rogers Park facility is located on North California Avenue just north of Mather Park. Let Safeguard Self Storage help you shift your summer stuff into safe storage before winter blows in.

Miami, FL is known as the “Magic City.” Its nickname is attributed to its rapid growth, but summer visitors may consider it magical for the seemingly endless list of ways to have fun. When the weather gets warm, people from every state flock to its beautiful beaches and lakes to enjoy a wide variety of exciting water sports and activities. If you're ready for to plan your visit, here is a quick overview of what awaits you in Miami. 

Play It Safe

The following activities require the special equipment listed. If you already have sports gear that's collecting dust in your Safeguard storage lockers, check to make sure that it's still viable and safe before using it. Sustaining an injury due to equipment failure is a quick way to ruin your Miami adventure. 

Water Recreation in the Magic City

• Snorkeling is a good way to admire the beauty of underwater environments for extended periods of time. To go snorkeling, you'll need a snorkel mask, a snorkel and fins. A wetsuit may be needed in cool water.
• Kayaking and canoeing are similar sports that are enjoyed in lakes and rivers. They are both elongated, lightweight boats, but there are key differences in their designs. Basic equipment needed for either include a stable boat and paddles, a life jacket or personal flotation device, a flashlight and a helmet.
• Boating is extremely popular in Miami, and you don't need to own a boat to enjoy it. Boat rentals and guided boat tours are both available. If you do own a boat, be sure to supply it with flotation devices or life jackets, a working whistle or horn, a visual signal and a fire extinguisher.
• Fishing is a relaxing way to enjoy the Magic City's natural beauty. The equipment needed will depend on where you're fishing and what type of fish you're trying to catch. In general, a fully stocked tackle box, a quality rod and reel and appropriate bait is a great start. Don't forget to bring boating safety equipment, sunscreen and plenty of drinking water.

Learn more about Miami, FL outdoor recreation venues, tours, sports events and other opportunities by visiting the Miami and Beaches website.

Self Storage Units Keep Summer Gear Safe and Secure

Unfortunately, the season of water adventures doesn't last forever. If you need extra space for storing your gear during the colder months, Safeguard offers secure self storage units in the Miami area. Contact us today for more information about our clean, affordable storage lockers, and let us help you get a head start on next year's summer magic.

Most people think of storage facilities when they're planning a move or remodeling their homes, but self-storage units are essential to the holiday season, too. Whether you own a home or a small business, temporary storage offers a great solution for everyday problems. If you're not taking advantage of home and commercial storage in Hollis, NY this year, you could be missing out on making the holiday season less stressful and more fun. Here are five great ways to utilize Safeguard Self Storage this year.

How Storage Facilities Can Make the Holiday Season Easier

1. A storage unit is a great place to hide surprise gifts until Santa Clause arrives. Curious little ones who sneak into closets and basements will never suspect a thing. Keep the magic and mystery intact by storing your gifts out of reach. You can even use the space to wrap presents privately.
2. Lights, trees and inflatable lawn ornaments can take up a huge amount of space in your attic or basement. Pack them away safely in a storage unit until it's time to decorate. If you rent a climate-controlled unit, you'll never have to worry about temperature extremes or moisture causing damage to your most valued decorations, gift-wraps and cards.
3. Holidays often involve overnight guests. If you have a small home, it can get crowded quickly. A storage unit gives you a place to store large items, like exercise equipment, so that you have more room for your visitors. It also provides a place to store air beds, extra linens and folding tables when your guests leave.
4. The holiday season is all about good will. It's a perfect time to reach out and help those less fortunate. If you want to collect items to donate to charity or give to homeless people in your area, a storage unit is a perfect place to keep them safe until it's time to distribute them.
5. If you own a business, you can use extra storage space to hold promotional materials for holiday events, bulk gift items, office decor, party supplies and off-season merchandise or marketing materials.

Check Out Storage Facilities in Hollis, NY

Whether you need home or commercial storage, affordable options are available near you. The holidays are just around the corner, so don’t wait until the last minute to contact your top local storage facility for details about available unit sizes and types, facility hours and monthly rates.  

With more than 2.5 million people calling it home in 2014, Brooklyn is the most densely populated borough in New York. If you live in an apartment, your free space may be severely limited. Holidays pose special challenges when friends and family members come to visit. It may be difficult to accommodate overnight guests in such a crowded environment, but it is possible to make room. Here are a few valuable tips from Safeguard Self Storage to help you set up your small apartment and provide a comfortable stay. 

Making Room for Your Brooklyn Visitors

• Buy high-end air mattresses. Some models include electric deflation features that remove all air and produce a flat mattress in about five minutes. They're quick and easy to use, and when deflated, they take up little room.
• With the right furniture, any room can become a bedroom. Replace traditional furniture with multi-functional pieces such as futons, day beds and sleeper sofas.
• Oversize bean bags make great beds for small children. When they're not in use, you can stack them in a corner.
• Keep plenty of folding chairs on hand for extra seating at mealtimes and holiday parties.
• Install shelves on walls above beds and sofas to create additional storage space. Leave them empty or almost empty. Your guests can use them for personal items and holiday gifts.
• Utilize vertical space in closets to make more room for your guests' luggage. Sturdy, stackable plastic bins can help you easily organize the top of your closet.
• If you have space available under your bed, use an under-bed storage box to store extra linens, towels and other guest essentials.
• In a tiny space, privacy can be hard to find. Buy large, folding privacy screens to separate sleeping spaces when you have multiple guests.
• If you have patio space, don't let it go to waste. Encourage guests to spend more time outside by making your outdoor space appealing. Provide a small table and chairs, and create a welcoming atmosphere with outdoor electric heaters, candles and patio lights. If the area is secure, it can also be used as an eating area or a play area for visiting children.

Get Help from Your Local Storage Rental Facility

You don't have to tolerate extra mattresses or folding chairs cluttering your apartment after your guests depart. Affordable storage units are available to store and protect these items until they are needed again. You can also use your storage unit to keep valuable collections and fragile items safe from visiting kids or pets. Contact Safeguard Self Storage to learn more about climate-controlled private storage units available in the Brooklyn area.  

New Orleans is a city that never sleeps, and has a variety of attractions to draw both visitors and new residents. This October, New Orleans residents have plenty to celebrate, and an influx of visitors want to be part of the festivities. Here are some of the events that Safeguard Self Storage wants to highlight, and how storage can help you get ready to party! 

Oktoberfest

First things first, Oktoberfest celebrations are happening throughout the country during October, so it stands to reason there’d be a flurry of events in New Orleans during this month. For the last three weekends in October, New Orleans residents will be enjoying German food, music, culture, and fun. These celebrations are held annually, and will be occurring on October 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, and 27. Taking place just ten miles from downtown New Orleans, this event draws attendees near and far. Try your strength at the Masskrugstemmen beer stein holding contest or try authentic German foods like Sauerbraten. There’s something here for everyone!

New Orleans Film Festival

Founded in 1989, the New Orleans Film Festival provides an opportunity for filmmakers to show off their latest works, which can include full-length features, shorts, and documentaries. The New Orleans Film Festival has become one of the nation’s top-ranked film festivals, and attracts thousands of people and industry professionals. This year the festival will be held from October 14-22, starting at Orpheum Theater in downtown New Orleans. There will be more than 170 selections featured during the festival.

Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival

 New Orleans is the Home of the Blues, and we’re celebrating at the 10th annual Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival. This event is free, taking place in Lafayette Square Park from Friday, October 16 to Sunday, October 18. But it’s not just music and BBQ that you get to enjoy! There’s a huge arts market, with works from the best regional and local vendors.

Voodoo Music & Arts Experience

Another big crowd drawer, the Voodoo Music & Arts Experience is second only to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Like many New Orleans events, this festival started small and has turned into a mega-event. Called “Voodoo” or “Voodoo Fest” for short, over the years this event has drawn more than a million people and booked over 2,000 acts. It’s scheduled to coincide with Halloween, and will take place from Friday, October 30 to Sunday, November 1. Held at the Festival Grounds in City Park, Voodoo has the motto, “Worship the Music.” We suggest that you do! 

Halloween in New Orleans

October wouldn’t be complete without a Halloween celebration, and New Orleans knows how to celebrate! Second only to Mardi Gras, New Orleans residents get wild and crazy for Halloween, dressing up in costumes and partying in the street. And as “The Most Haunted City in America,” we wouldn’t expect any less! Experience haunted tours through the French Quarter or browse through the many Voodoo shops to learn a little history. Thinking of bringing your family out for Halloween? No problem. Audubon Zoo holds an annual “Boo at the Zoo” on October 16, 17, 23, and 24.

Self Storage Makes Celebrations Easy 

Whether you’re an attendee, a vendor, or a filmmaker, Safeguard Self Storage in the Big Easy, can make your life, well, easier. Preparing for the festivities and running out of room for your set up supplies? Find an affordable storage locker to store your stuff. Attracted to this lively city and thinking of making the move? Use self storage to ease your transition. We have locations throughout Louisiana! Contact us today to see how we can help make your life easier – and enjoy the festivities!

Just because you love the sun here in Magic City doesn't mean you don't have a wonderful winter wardrobe. Still, those warm threads crowd closets and drawers, so make a summer resolution this year. Promise to pamper your winter clothes with Safeguard Self Storage, and pledge to keep your Miami, FL home organized year-round.

Keep ‘em Clean

Before storing, it’s important to run all your clothes through the wash. That hot chocolate stain from cooler days will only get darker and harder to get out. Remove stains now and make your job a lot easier in the future.

Stack Your Sweaters

Nobody wants four shoulders, but if you hang your clothes during the winter months that’s exactly what you’ll get. Sweaters fall victim to hanger shoulders because they tend to be a little bit heavier than other garments. A good organizational tactic is to loosely stack your sweaters, keeping the heaviest on the bottom.  

If You’ve Gotta Hang It…

But what about the clothes that you have to hang? In this case, try to avoid plastic hanging bags. Although they may seem the most secure, they actually tend to hold in moisture and do not get enough air circulation. A more beneficial alternative would be wrapping your hanging clothes in a breathable fabric.

Swing By

It’s a good idea to keep tabs on your stored clothing. This way, you get the opportunity to switch out what you aren’t using in your home, and take what you need from storage.  Do not abandon your storage unit, but use it to your advantage.

It's great to liberate closet space and organize drawers, but always leave one warm sweater at home for an occasional cool Dade County evening. Whether you're stashing winter coats or a sail boat, your options at Safeguard Self Storage in Miami, FL range from storage lockers to drive-up units. Be prepared to fall in love with affordable self storage, and make it a permanent part of seasonal organizing traditions all year long.