Keeping a home clean and safe with pets can be a daily struggle. Toys pile up, leashes tangle, and bulky pet beds take over your living space. Worse, clutter isn’t just an eyesore—it can be dangerous. Loose leashes become tripping hazards, and curious pets can get into things they shouldn’t.

When things are out of place, it’s harder to find what you need, and cleaning becomes overwhelming. Pets thrive in a calm, structured environment, and too much mess can make them anxious or restless.

Self-storage helps you keep your home tidy and maximise your space without giving up the things you or your pet need. By storing extra supplies, seasonal gear, and bulk food safely out of the way, you create more space for a cleaner, safer, and happier home.

Home Organisation and Pet Safety

As pet owners, we all want our homes to be a safe and happy place for our furry companions. But with pets come a lot of things—beds, toys, leashes, food bowls, and even seasonal gear.

Dr. Lidija Krvavac, Medical Director at Noble Veterinary Clinics JLT Branch, shares that “Pets love to explore, and a tidy, organised home helps limit the risks they face. I strongly recommend pet owners to declutter once in a while to create a functional and safe space for their pets and themselves. Doing so will give owners peace of mind and help keep pets calm.”

Here are small but meaningful changes to keep pets safe and comfortable.

1. Reducing Clutter to Prevent Accidents

We all love spoiling our pets with toys, cosy beds, and accessories, but when these items pile up, they can quickly become a safety hazard.

For pets, scattered items can be an invitation for mischief. They may chew on something they shouldn’t or get their paws stuck in places they don’t belong. By designating a proper storage space for pet essentials, you minimise these risks while keeping your home neat. Reducing clutter will also help new kittens or puppies ease into their environment and get settled in.

2. Keeping Toxic or Hazardous Items Out of Reach

Some of the most common household items can be dangerous for pets if left in the wrong place. Cleaning products, certain human foods, and even everyday medications can be harmful if curious pets get into them. The safest way to prevent accidents is to keep these items securely stored and out of reach.

• Cleaning supplies: Many floor cleaners, disinfectants, and sprays contain chemicals that can be toxic if ingested or absorbed through your pet’s paws. Store them in locked cabinets or high shelves where pets can’t access them.

• Medications: Even small amounts of human medication can be harmful to pets. Keep them in a closed medicine cabinet, never on countertops or bedside tables.

• Sharp grooming tools: Scissors, nail clippers, and razors should be kept in a secure drawer or container to avoid accidental injuries.

How Self-Storage Helps Keep Your Home Clean and Organised

By keeping all pet-related items in one area, you avoid unnecessary clutter throughout the house. If space is limited, storing extra supplies in a self-storage unit means your pet’s zone remains neat while everything they need is still accessible when required.

1. Decluttering Pet Essentials

A cleaner home starts with knowing what needs to stay and what can be stored away. Some pet items are used daily, while others—like seasonal gear or spare supplies—can be kept in storage until needed.

Here’s how self-storage can help declutter your pet essentials:

• Store seasonal items like thick winter coats, cooling mats, and a portable fan.

• Instead of keeping all toys out at once, store some and rotate them every few weeks to keep your pet engaged while reducing mess.

• Keep bulky items out of the way, like spare beds, crates, and carriers, which can take up a lot of space.

• Buy in bulk without the clutter.

2. Creating a Dedicated Pet Zone

A pet-friendly home is about creating a place where your pet feels cared for. Setting up a dedicated pet zone keeps their essentials in one spot, making your home tidier and your daily routine smoother.

Here’s what a well-organised pet zone can include:

• A dedicated sleeping area helps pets feel safe and settled.

• Keeping bowls in one place makes mealtime cleaner and easier.

• A simple basket keeps toys in one place and reduces scattered mess.

• A nearby shelf or cabinet for brushes, shampoos, and first-aid essentials ensures everything is easy to find.

What Pet Items Can Be Stored in a Self-Storage Unit?

If you have a puppy or are planning for one, it’s always good to have extra space ready for their growing needs. 

1. Seasonal Pet Gear

Pets, just like us, need different things depending on the season. Storing seasonal pet gear when it’s not in use helps keep your home clutter-free.

• Winter gear: Thick coats, booties, and heated pet beds.

• Summer essentials: Cooling mats, portable fans, and outdoor pet pools.

• Rainy day items: Waterproof jackets and paw wipes to keep mud out of your home.

2. Large and Bulky Pet Accessories

Some pet accessories take up a lot of room, even though they aren’t used daily. Instead of cramming them into closets or leaving them out, a self-storage unit can help keep them safely tucked away until needed.

• Spare beds: Useful for when you’re washing the main one or having pet visitors.

• Crates and carriers: Essential for travel or training but not always in use.

• Playpens and gates: Great for keeping pets safe in certain areas, but not needed all the time.

3. Bulk Pet Food and Litter Storage

Buying pet food and litter in bulk can save money, but storing large bags at home can be challenging. A self-storage unit allows you to stock up without taking up valuable space.

• Dry food and treats: Kept in airtight containers to stay fresh.

• Extra litter: Stored in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup.

• Hay or bedding for small pets: Kept away from dust and pests in a sealed container.

4. Spare or Rotating Pet Toys

Toys can pile up quickly, making your home feel messy. Rotating toys keeps your pet entertained while reducing clutter.

• Chew toys: Swap them out regularly to keep your pet interested.

• Plush toys: Store extras to replace worn-out ones.

• Interactive toys: Bring out different ones every few weeks to keep playtime exciting.

Keeping Your Home Spacious and Comfortable for Your Pet

A tidy home doesn’t have to mean less space for your pet. With the right storage solutions, you can keep your home neat and tidy while ensuring your furry friend has everything they need.

1. Using Multifunctional Storage Solutions

Smart storage can help you stay organised without taking away space from your pet’s living area. 

• Furniture with built-in storage: Ottomans, benches, or side tables with hidden compartments can store pet toys, leashes, or grooming supplies.

• Under-bed storage: Use low-profile bins to store extra pet bedding, seasonal gear, or spare litter trays.

• Wall-mounted shelves or hooks: Keep leashes, collars, and grooming tools off the floor while ensuring they’re easy to grab when needed.

• Foldable pet accessories: Collapsible crates, travel carriers, and foldable pet beds can be stored away when not in use, freeing up space.

2. Organising Pet Items with Storage Bins and Labels

A simple way is to ensure that every item has its place, making it easier to find what you need.

• Use clear or labelled bins: Categorise pet items like toys, grooming tools, and medical supplies to make them easy to locate.

• Separate daily essentials from storage items: Keep frequently used items accessible, while storing less-used items away in cupboards or a self-storage unit.

• Choose pet-safe storage containers: Airtight bins for food and treats help keep them fresh and prevent pests.

• Stackable bins for small spaces: Maximise vertical space by stacking labelled containers in cupboards or storage areas.

Choosing the Right Self-Storage Unit for Pet Owners

Not all storage units are the same, and when it comes to storing pet supplies, choosing the right one can make all the difference.

1. Climate control to preserve pet food, bedding, and supplies

• Keeps pet food fresh – Dry food, treats, and supplements stay in good condition when stored in a cool, dry environment.

• Protects bedding and blankets – Prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to mould and mildew.

• Preserves grooming products – Shampoos, sprays, and medications last longer in stable temperatures.

2. Pest control measures to protect pet belongings

• Use airtight containers – Store food and litter in sealed bins to prevent infestations.

• Choose a clean, well-maintained facility – Look for storage units that prioritise pest control with regular maintenance.

• Elevate bedding and soft items – Keeping them off the floor can reduce exposure to dust and pests.

3. Opting for Extra Space Storage Units for Ease of Access

• A unit that is close to your home: A nearby location makes it easier to grab supplies when needed.

• Organise items for quick access: Place frequently used items near the front of the unit.

• Keep emergency supplies handy: Having spare food, litter, and first-aid essentials in storage ensures you're always prepared.

A Pet-Friendly Home is a Happy Home

A home filled with love and comfort is the best gift you can give your pet. By embracing smart storage solutions, you create a pet-friendly home that is not only cleaner and safer but also more enjoyable for both you and your furry companion.

If you’ve been struggling to balance pet care with home organisation, now is the perfect time to make a change. Start small, declutter, and see how a little extra space can make a big difference. Your pet will thank you for it!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I make my home more pet-friendly?

A pet-friendly home is safe, comfortable, and free of clutter. Create a designated space for your pet with a bed, food bowls, and toys. Store extra supplies in self-storage to keep your home organised while ensuring everything your pet needs is easily accessible.

2. What are the best ways to keep pets safe at home?

Keep harmful items like cleaning supplies, medications, and small objects out of reach. Use storage bins to organise pet essentials and avoid tripping hazards. A clutter-free home reduces risks and makes it easier to care for your pet.

3. Can I store pet food in a self-storage unit?

Yes, but it must be kept in airtight containers to prevent spoilage and pests. Climate-controlled storage units are best for maintaining the freshness of dry food, treats, and litter. Always check expiration dates before restocking at home.

4. Is it safe to store pet bedding and toys in self-storage?

Yes, as long as they are clean and stored in dry, well-ventilated spaces. Use sealed bins to protect against dust and pests. Rotating pet toys between storage and home keeps your pet engaged without overwhelming your living space.

5. How do I choose the right self-storage unit for my pet supplies?

Look for a storage unit with climate control, pest prevention measures, and easy access. If you have a new kitten or puppy, having a nearby unit makes it easier to store and retrieve essential supplies as your pet grows.