Sep 12, 2025

Self Storage Tips and Tricks for Moving, Renovating, & Downsizing

Self Storage Tips and Tricks for Moving, Renovating, & Downsizing

Self Storage Tips and Tricks for Moving, Renovating, & Downsizing

A worker moves a box toward a truck at the loading dock, highlighting Extra Space services.
A worker moves a box toward a truck at the loading dock, highlighting Extra Space services.

Renovating, moving, or downsizing can be exciting, but it also brings plenty of challenges, from tight spaces and cluttered rooms to the constant worry about keeping your belongings safe. You’ll probably still need regular access to some of your items, so finding a storage option that’s both convenient and reliable is key.

While stashing boxes in a friend’s spare room might seem like a quick fix, the back-and-forth can soon become stressful. Self-storage offers a simple, practical way to keep everything organised, protected, and easy to reach while you focus on your project.

In this blog, we’ll share our top self-storage tips and tricks to make moving, renovating, or downsizing smoother and far less stressful.

4 Storage Essentials for an Organised Move or Renovation

1. Select the Right Storage Provider

The first step to hassle-free storage is choosing a trusted provider. You can include storage as part of your moving package or rent space independently, giving you control and convenience. Once you’ve selected a provider, the next step is planning how to transport your belongings to the facility efficiently. If you’re still looking for a trusted self-storage provider, we offer secure, flexible storage solutions tailored to your needs. 

2. Pack and Label Your Boxes

Packing requires the proper supplies to protect your belongings. Use sturdy moving boxes, packing paper, and bubble wrap for fragile items, and add extra padding to prevent shifting. Choose boxes made for moving, label fragile items clearly, and note the room each box belongs to to make unpacking easier.

3. Monitor All Your Belongings

We recommend keeping a detailed inventory of all items going into storage. Note what’s in each box and the room it came from, and update the list whenever items are added or removed. Keeping a copy for yourself and one for the storage facility ensures accountability and makes it easy to locate anything when needed.

4. Handle Electronics with Care

Electronics and appliances need a little extra attention in storage to stay safe and in good working order. A few smart self storage tips and tricks can make all the difference. Start by following the manufacturer’s packing guidelines, detaching cords, and wrapping them individually. Label each one so setting up later is quick and stress-free.

For appliances such as refrigerators, clean and defrost them first, and leave the doors slightly open to prevent odours or mould. To reduce the risk of water damage, keep electronics off the floor by placing them on pallets or shelving.

By using these self-storage tips and tricks, you’ll keep your valuable gadgets and appliances protected and ready to go when you need them again.

Stacked white boxes with Extra Space branding, labels, and contact info sit in a room with a tiled floor.

Key Factors When Choosing Self Storage

Choosing the right self-storage unit during our home renovation isn’t just about finding the cheapest option. At Extra Space, we focus on key factors to ensure our belongings stay safe and accessible, whether the project is short-term or long-term.

Self Storage Size Breakdown

Benefits of Professional Storage Solutions for Renovations

  • Keeps Furniture Safe from Dust and Damage

Renovation work often generates dust, debris, and accidental hazards. A secure storage unit protects your furniture from scratches, paint splatters, and other potential damage.

  • Creates Space for a Smoother Renovation

Clearing furniture and boxes from your home opens up space for contractors to work efficiently. A clutter-free environment reduces the risk of accidents and helps the project stay on schedule.

  • Flexible and Secure Storage Options

Storage providers offer flexible rental periods to match the length of your renovation, whether short-term or extended. With 24/7 security and easy access, you can retrieve your items whenever needed.

Alternative Storage Options During Home Renovation

While professional storage is a reliable choice, there are other practical ways to keep your belongings protected. Here are other self storage tips and tricks to help you make the most of your storage space:

Use a Spare Room

If you have an extra room, balcony, or covered area, it can serve as a temporary storage space. This keeps your furniture accessible while shielding it from dust and debris.

  • Pros: Affordable, convenient, suitable for small to medium-sized items.

  • Cons: Limited space for larger pieces; some exposure to renovation dust.

Ensure proper ventilation and cover furniture to prevent moisture buildup.

Ask Friends or Family for Temporary Storage

For larger projects, friends or family may have extra space to store some of your furniture. This can be a cost-effective solution, especially for short-term renovations.

  • Pros: Low-cost or free, suitable for valuable or sentimental items, and avoids renting storage.

  • Cons: Limited space, depends on the availability and willingness of others.

Organise and label everything clearly for easy retrieval after the renovation.

Set Up On-Site Covered Areas

For smaller renovations, you can create temporary storage within your home using tarps, plastic sheeting, or covered corners to protect furniture from dust and moisture.

  • Pros: Quick setup, budget-friendly, convenient for short-term use.

  • Cons: Minimal protection from weather or pests; not ideal for long-term storage.

Keep furniture elevated on pallets to prevent moisture damage. Deciding where to store furniture during renovations depends on your available space, budget, and project length.

Close-up of a man pushing Extra Space boxes with service labels down a hallway of storage units.

Safe and Accessible Storage Solutions You Can Rely On

You don’t have to compromise on safety or convenience when storing your belongings during a move, renovation, or downsizing. 

At Extra Space, we offer flexible, secure storage options in Dubai that cater to short-term, long-term, or mini storage needs, making it easier to focus on your project without worry. Our facilities are designed to be safe, accessible, and hassle-free, helping you keep your items organised and giving you peace of mind throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep my belongings safe during a renovation?

Some practical self-storage tips and tricks include keeping electronics and appliances off the floor, wrapping cords and fragile items carefully, labelling everything, and cleaning appliances before storing. Using pallets or shelving can prevent water damage and make it easier to access items when needed.

How can I keep my belongings safe during a renovation?
How can I keep my belongings safe during a renovation?

Some practical self-storage tips and tricks include keeping electronics and appliances off the floor, wrapping cords and fragile items carefully, labelling everything, and cleaning appliances before storing. Using pallets or shelving can prevent water damage and make it easier to access items when needed.

How do I choose the right size self-storage unit for my move or renovation?
How do I choose the right size self-storage unit for my move or renovation?
How do I choose the right size self-storage unit for my move or renovation?
Can temporary spaces, like a spare room or a friend’s house, work instead of professional storage?
Can temporary spaces, like a spare room or a friend’s house, work instead of professional storage?
Can temporary spaces, like a spare room or a friend’s house, work instead of professional storage?
Why choose professional self-storage solutions in Dubai?
Why choose professional self-storage solutions in Dubai?
Why choose professional self-storage solutions in Dubai?
Can I access my storage unit anytime during my renovation?
Can I access my storage unit anytime during my renovation?
Can I access my storage unit anytime during my renovation?

Contact Us for Storage and Moving Solutions.

About us

We provide international standard storage and shipping solutions at very competitive prices. Our facilities are pest-controlled, fully air-conditioned year-round, and equipped with a 24/7 CCTV monitoring room.
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Toll free: 800 810 810

Phone: 04 330 6788

Warehouse 6, Street 18

Dubai, UAE

© 2025 ExtraSpace, All Right Reserved.

Contact Us for Storage and Moving Solutions.

© 2025 ExtraSpace, All Right Reserved.

Contact Us for Storage and Moving Solutions.

© 2025 ExtraSpace, All Right Reserved.