Category Archives: Uncategorized

 
Babies grow up fast. Before you know it, you have a huge pile of clothes they can’t fit into, a car seat that they’re too big for, and a whole lot of baby toys that don’t keep their interest anymore. It can be tempting to get rid of everything as soon as you don’t need it anymore, but before you do, you need to ask yourself this question: are you going to have another kid?
 
If the answer is “yes,” or even “maybe,” then you shouldn’t get rid of everything just yet. While it will make sense to get rid of some things and repurchase them as needed, there are several things that you should definitely hang on to and use when it’s time to have another baby.
 
Here are the things we recommend storing so you can use them with baby number two.
 

Car seat.

 
A car seat can be a significant expense, so it will benefit you to get as much use out of your infant seat as you can. If you opted for a seat that can only hold an infant (that is, it isn’t convertible and doesn’t grow with your child), you should still hang onto it so you can use it when the next baby comes. Make sure, however, that you don’t use a seat past its expiration date. Most seats last a good 7-10 years, so it shouldn’t be a problem, but always double check.
 

Nursery furniture.

 
Do you really want to go through the process of buying all new baby furniture—again? Chances are, you did a good amount of research to find the best crib, rocker, and changing table for your new baby. As long as these items are in good shape after using them with your first baby, you should definitely keep them in storage until they’re needed again.
 

(Some) clothes.

 
Clothes are a tough one. You probably invested quite a bit into your baby’s wardrobe, but a lot of those clothes have probably been stained or otherwise damaged over the course of your baby’s short (but messy) life. Here’s what we recommend: keep a sentimental outfit or two (to set aside as a keepsake); throw away anything that’s substantially stained or damaged; donate items you simply don’t like or never used; and store the rest. This will save you some storage space while also getting your next baby’s wardrobe off to a good start. Make sure you separate gender neutral clothes from the gender specific ones, just in case your next baby is a different gender than your first.
 

Swings, rockers, play mats, and other “gear.”

 
Hanging on to larger items will save you money down the road. As long as your baby gear is still in good shape, there’s no reason to get rid of it. The biggest problem with these items is that they can be bulky and awkward to store, as most of them don’t fold flat or compress well. This is definitely where a self storage unit comes in handy, as it gives you a place to store items like these that is both safe and out of the way of your daily life.
 

Classic or favorite toys.

 
Baby toys can take over your house quickly, and it can definitely be tempting to get rid of them as soon as your older child is done with them. However, we recommend holding on to certain toys. Classic toys, like blocks and rattles, will withstand the test of time and will be great to have on hand for your next baby. Any toys that your baby didn’t like (or that you didn’t like, for that matter) can be donated or passed on.
 

Things you can get rid of.

 
All the things listed above would probably be beneficial to hold on to, but there are plenty of things that are safe to get rid of as well, when your first baby is done with them. Most of these things are so easy and affordable to replace that it simply doesn’t make sense to store them. Here are a few.
 

• – Used pacifiers and bottle nipples
• – Bottle brushes
• – Infant bath products, lotions, or diaper creams

– Worn out clothes or shoes

• – Bathing sponges or infant baths
• – Bath toys (often get water stuck inside and can become moldy)

 
Growing your family brings a lot of changes to your house. Save yourself some time and money when your second baby comes along by keeping these items in storage instead of getting rid of them. With multiple kids, you’ll have much more important things to worry about, anyway.
 
Need a secure self-storage option in the Phoenix area for storing all these baby items? Arizona Storage Centers is here for you, with centers in Phoenix, Glendale, Gilbert, Chandler, and Deer Valley. We offer exceptional storage options and customer service, to help our customers through every stage of life. Give us a call at 480-386-6022 to learn more, or contact us through our website. We look forward to hearing from you!
 

 
Whether you recently moved or just want to spruce up your space, buying used furniture can be a great way to furnish a space on the cheap. Many people sell their used furniture at deeply discounted prices, meaning you can get a steal on everything from beds to bookshelves.
 
Of course, special care should be taken when you’re buying anything used—and that goes double for furniture. Here are some of our best tips for buying used furniture.
 

Shop local.

 
Too often, people who want to ship large furniture items are trying to scam you. Keep your search local to avoid any problems. Try Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or Craigslist for localized listings.
 

Read descriptions carefully.

 
The seller should disclose any and all problems with the item in the listing. This should include scratches, dents, missing/broken hardware, paint chips, and more. If these things are missing from the listing, don’t be afraid to ask.
 

Don’t be too picky.

 
When you’re buying used items, you can’t expect them to be in new condition. If you find a piece you love, be willing to forgive a small scratch or other minor imperfection. If you wait around for something “perfect,” you’ll probably never find it!
 

Make an offer…a fair offer.

 
You want a great deal on your furniture (that’s why you’re buying used, after all), so don’t be afraid to make an offer that’s lower than the seller’s initial asking price. That said, make sure your offer is reasonable and fair. “Lowball” offers are usually a turnoff to sellers.
 

Measure twice.

 
Make sure the item is going to fit in your space. Take careful measurements to make sure!
 

Meet in public.

 
When buying used furniture from a private seller, make sure you put safety first. This means you should always meet in a public place where plenty of people will be around. Unless you have a good reason to trust the seller, avoid going to his/her house to make the exchange.
 

Back out if you’re not sure.

 
If you meet the seller, inspect the item, and decide you don’t want the item after all…speak up! You shouldn’t be stuck with a piece of furniture you don’t want just because it’s awkward to tell the seller you’ve changed your mind. Be polite and apologetic, but definitely say something.
 

Transport with care.

 
Make sure you have what you need to transport the piece safely. Whether that’s a borrowed truck, several blankets to pad the corners, or tie downs to keep it secure, make sure that you’ll be able to get your furniture piece home safely.
 
If you follow these tips, you should be able to buy used furniture safely and effectively. Enjoy your new piece!
 
(Looking for tips on selling new furniture? We’ve got those, too.)
 
If you need some storage space during your move or renovation, or just need a place to keep all your extra stuff, check out Arizona Storage Centers. We have safe, secure storage facilities in Phoenix, Deer Valley, Glendale, Gilbert/San Tan, and Chandler, so reliable storage is never too far away. We offer affordable rates and a wide variety of amenities. Stop by one of our centers today, or call us at 480-386-6022.
 

 
When you’re planning a move, your attention is pulled in a lot of different directions. You’re thinking about the best day to move, getting helpers lined up, and making sure the utilities will be turned on in your new home. Whether you like it or not, a move is a time of multitasking.
 
With so many things on your mind, it’s easy to see how health and safety could potentially take a backseat to other things during a move. But ignoring these things on moving day could lead to injuries that last long after your last box is unpacked.
 
Here are a few moving safety tips you should keep in mind for your next move.
 

Wear the Right Shoes.

 
With all the walking and lifting going on, you want to make sure you’re wearing shoes that will protect your feet during your move. Wear something with a closed toe and closed heel, to protect your feet in case something is dropped, and to make sure your shoes aren’t falling off. You’ll also want something that has plenty of cushioning and support, for your comfort, and some grip on the sole, for your safety.
 

Wear Gloves.

 
Moving wood furniture and cardboard boxes can wreak havoc on your hands. Wear sturdy gloves to help avoid splinters, cuts, scrapes, and excessive dryness.
 

Stay Hydrated.

 
As is the case when you’re doing any physical activity, it’s important to stay hydrated throughout your move. Have plenty of water on hand for yourself and for any helpers you have.
 

Don’t Lift Alone.

 
If you’re not sure about whether you’ll be able to lift something on your own, ask for help! Better safe than sorry.
 

Lift with your Legs.

 
Speaking of, it’s good to keep in mind this time-honored advice. Try not to strain your back when lifting. Instead, lift with your legs. This will give you more support and will help you avoid a back injury.
 

Get the Right Gear.

 
Make sure you have dollies (hand trucks) on hand to help you with heavy lifting. You should also make sure that everything is secured well with packing tape and any other protection needed. Make sure boxes aren’t ripping or opening before you lift them.
 

Call the Pros.

 
If you have items that are especially fragile or otherwise difficult to move (e.g. a piano), it might be time to hire professionals to help out. This will take a load off of you (literally) and make sure your prized possessions are handled with the utmost care.
 

Drive Safely.

 
If you’ve rented a moving truck or trailer for your move, you may have to adjust your driving style accordingly. Be especially aware of your turning radius and stop time.
 
By sticking to these rules, you should be able to get through your move without injuries or accidents. As important as it is for your belongings to get to your new home in one piece, it’s much more important that you get there safely!
 
If you need great self-storage in the Phoenix area, check out Arizona Storage Centers. We have locations in Phoenix, Deer Valley, Glendale, Chandler, and Gilbert, so that reliable self-storage is always convenient for you. Call us at 480-386-6022 to hear about our unit options and rates. We can’t wait to help you with all your storage needs.
 

 
Moving can be a jarring experience in a lot of different ways. Not only are you in a new house, but more likely than not, you’re probably in a new neighborhood as well, with new surroundings and of course, new neighbors.
 
Each of your new neighbors is going to be different, so it may take a little time to gauge which ones you and your family will get along with. Still, there are a few things you can do to when you first move in to help you get through the stage of being the “new neighbor.” Here are our favorites.
 

Know the rules.

 
You don’t want to get off on the wrong foot by being the neighbor who doesn’t know when trash day is, or the neighborhood rules for parking your cars in the street. If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, take some time to review the rules to make sure you have a good understanding of these basics. If you’re in a community without an HOA, ask a neighbor.
 

Introduce yourselves early.

 
It might seem like this is just one more thing to add to your already long to-do list, but it will serve you well in the long run. It’s always awkward to go meet a new neighbor, only to admit that you’ve actually lived next door for the past six months without introducing yourself. Take just a minute on your first day in your new home to walk down your street and meet a few neighbors.
 

Try to remember names.

 
Don’t be embarrassed if you have to make a list! Jot down the house number with the names of the people living there. It will go a long way when you have to go borrow that cup of sugar/screwdriver/flashlight.
 

Use community areas.

 
Utilize your community areas—parks, swimming pools, greenbelts, basketball courts, etc.—as a way to meet your neighbors and incorporate yourself into community activities.
 

Invite people over.

 
Hosting a housewarming party for family and friends? Include your neighbors in on the fun. This would be a great way to get to know them better and get these new relationships started off right.
 

Host a neighborhood event.

 
This works especially well if there are several new people in your neighborhood (maybe a new build neighborhood?). Pull together a casual event at a neighborhood park and let everyone mingle. Consider making it a potluck to keep the food situation simple.
 
It’s not always easy being the new family on the block. But by following these easy steps, you’ll be well on your way to being an important part of a tight-knit community.
 
If you need a self-storage solution for your Gilbert area move, contact Arizona Storage Centers at 480-386-6022. We have storage facilities all around the Valley—Phoenix, Glendale, Deer Valley, Gilbert, and Chandler—for reliable, secure storage when you need it most.
 

 
Outdoor entertaining is one of the great things about owning a home. If you design your outdoor space well, it can really turn into an extension of your home that creates memorable experiences for you, your family, and your guests.
 
Of course, throw a Phoenix summer into the mix, and things get a little more interesting.
 
With temperatures well into the triple digits, it might be a little baffling to some why you would even want to spend time outdoors during a Phoenix summer. Well, with a little planning, you’ll be able to design a space that will be functional and (relatively) cool, even on the hottest days. Here are our best tips for successfully designing an outdoor space.
 

Water, water, water.

 
Nothing says summer like outdoor water activities. If you already have a pool (or the funds and space to build one), you’ve got it made in the shade…er, water. If not, you can get creative with ways to cool down in the scorching heat. Think: sprinklers, above ground pools, and water games. And of course, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water, too. Dehydration is a serious concern during a Phoenix summer!
 

Shade.

 
What’s the next best thing to water? Shade. Having a shady spot to relax outdoors will keep you much more comfortable and let you enjoy the outdoors even on hot days. Large, shady trees are a great option if you have the land. If not, umbrellas do the trick just fine. Also, utilize any covered patio space you have, and take notice of the shade your home creates in your yard throughout the day. Try to utilize those natural shady spaces however you can.
 

Outdoor furniture.

 
If you’re going to spend any amount of time outside, you’ll need somewhere to sit. Chairs are a must, and tables are certainly handy, especially if you’ll be eating or entertaining outside. Try to include misters in your seating area; they’ll go a long way towards keeping the furniture (and you!) cool. And try to avoid any metal furniture; it will become dangerously hot in the Phoenix sun. One last thing: don’t forget furniture covers. Dry rot is a problem in Phoenix and it will wear your outdoor furniture down quickly.
 

Entertainment.

 
If you really like to spend time outside, make sure you have ways to entertain yourself and your guests. Outdoor games (water games are a bonus) that can be easily played with a fan blowing or with misters on you will go a long way towards making your outdoor time more enjoyable. Also consider activities for the kids, such as bubbles or sidewalk chalk, that can easily be done on a misted patio.
 
Getting outside during a Phoenix summer is no joke. But rather than be cooped up indoors for 4 (or more) months, follow these tips and stay cool even in the heat!
 
If you’re looking for a place to store all that winter gear and clothing, or if you’re just trying to clear out your home this summer, look no further than Arizona Storage Centers. With facilities in Chandler, Gilbert, Phoenix, Deer Valley, and Glendale, you can find secure storage that’s close to home, no matter where in the Valley you are. Give us a call at 480-386-6022 to learn more.
 

 
Got a bibliophile in your home? Then you probably also have a ton of books. While books are a great addition to any home (both in terms of functionality and decoration) it can sometimes be hard to know how to store or display them properly.
 
Whether you have a dozen books, or dozens of dozens, there are a few things you can do to make your home “library” a little more functional and beautiful. Here are some of our favorite tips.
 
Create a dedicated space. Most of us aren’t lucky enough to have an entire room to house all our books, but almost all of us have at least a small space that we can dedicate to storing or displaying books. Determine the space you’re going to use and how much room there is. This will help you pick out some furniture you need to hold your books.
 

Find the right furniture.

 
Standard bookshelves are great, of course, but they might not be the best fit for your space. You might need a corner bookshelf, for example, or floating shelves if there’s no more room on the floor. If you’re really tight on space, find multi-use furniture that can hold other things: dishes, linens, toys, etc. The key is finding what will work for your space, rather than trying to force a setup that won’t work.
 

Pare it down.

 
Unless you do have that entire room to use as a library (you lucky dog), you probably have limited space to work with for storing your books. Go through your stacks and cut out anything you don’t absolutely have to own. Keep books you haven’t yet read, ones you’re planning to reread, or ones that you really enjoyed. The rest can be donated.
 

Organize.

 
Let’s be real: it doesn’t make much sense to have your children’s books displayed right next to your World War II biopics. Categorize your books into at least a few general sections; if nothing else, at least separate the childrens books so they’re easily accessible by the little ones in the house.
 

Get creative with your displays.

 
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to displaying your books. You can alphabetize them, group them by size or subject, or even create a rainbow effect by grouping like colors together. Try out a few different arrangements to see what works best in your room. You can even try laying some books down flat in a neat stack to add a little variation to your display.
 

Add some seating.

 
What good is a book if you don’t have a place to curl up and read it? You might not have a ton of room in your “library,” but if possible, add a cozy chair to create a warm, inviting feel to the space. If the chair looks lonely, you can also add a side table and/or a lamp to give it some company.
 
With a little planning and imagination, you can create a great home library that will be functional and beautiful. Happy reading!
 
Need a place to store some extra books? Check out Arizona Storage Centers. With facilities around the Phoenix area, including Phoenix, Deer Valley, Glendale, Gilbert, and Chandler, we offer convenient and reliable storage for all your possessions. Give us a call at 480-386-6022 or stop by one of our storage centers for more information.
 

 
Planning a move to the Phoenix area sometime in the near future? If so, you’ll be joining over four and a half million people who call Phoenix or one of its surrounding cities home.
 
Many Phoenix residents love living here, but if you’re moving from a different place, it can be a bit of a shock to start a new life in the Valley of the Sun. There are a lot of little things you’ll pick up along the way, but here are what we consider to be the five most important things for you to know to prepare for your move to the Phoenix area.
 

1. It’s hot.

Okay, so you probably already know this. But chances are, Phoenix heat isn’t quite what you’re expecting. Phoenix heat is very dry, without any of the mugginess that comes from many other hot climates. While many people, especially locals, prefer this dry heat to humidity, when temperatures soar to 115 degrees, it doesn’t matter if it’s humid—it’s still really, really hot. Luckily, Phoenix area homes are outfitted with central air conditioning, so your home can stay comfortably cool.
 

2. We have monsoons…and haboobs.

 
From mid-June to late September, monsoons are a pretty common phenomenon in the Phoenix area. These powerful storms bring lightning, wind, and yes, rain. Occasionally, you’ll also get a haboob. Yes, a haboob. These are essentially large dust storms that bring towering clouds of dust sweeping in suddenly. They usually aren’t too destructive, although they can make driving dangerous at times.
 

3. This isn’t “the middle of nowhere.”

 
When some people think of Arizona, they think of vast desert wasteland, complete with tumbleweed and cowboys. If that’s your thing, you can certainly find it; but rest assured, the Phoenix area is very modern and thriving, with great shopping and dining opportunities, plenty of sporting events year-round, and great nightlife and entertainment.
 

4. Spiders and snakes and scorpions, oh my!

 
Every region has its fair share of specialized “critters,” and Phoenix is certainly no exception. In fact, many of our creepy-crawlies frighten people a little more than your average spider (though we have those, too). The most infamous is the scorpion. Hard to kill, these little creatures will sting if given the chance. The sting usually isn’t dangerous and the pain subsides on its own. Scorpions are fairly common in some parts of the Phoenix area, but don’t worry: there are plenty of people who have lived here their whole lives and never been stung. Just the same—always check your shoes!
 

5. Plan on driving.

 
If you’re moving from somewhere with a lot of public transportation options, you may be a little shocked by the Phoenix area’s general lack of public transportation. Sure, there’s a bus system and a limited light-rail system, but the easiest and most common way to get around is in your own car. Thankfully, parking is usually fairly easy and cheap, no matter where you go.
 
We hope these five crucial tips have helped you prepare just a little bit more for your move to Phoenix, and we hope you feel right at home in the Valley!
 
If you need secure, reliable self-storage to help with your move, or just to keep your belongings safe, check out Arizona Storage Centers. We have locations throughout the Phoenix area, in Phoenix, Deer Valley, Glendale, Gilbert, and Chandler, so your self-storage can be as convenient as possible. We pride ourselves on our customer service and storage options, so give us a call today at 480-386-6022 to learn how we can help you with your storage needs.
 

 
Got an extra room in your home that you’re not sure what to do with? Not everyone is lucky enough to have a “bonus” room in their house, but if you are, it an be tricky to try to find just the right purpose for that extra space. If you’ve been trying to decide what identity to give your bonus room, we’ve got a few ideas that just might give you the inspiration you’ve been looking for.
 
Here are our favorite ways to use the bonus room in your home:
 

Playroom.

 
If you have young kids, having a place to put all their toys is absolutely golden. Rather than cluttering up their bedrooms (or your common areas) with their toys, games, and books. Utilize your bonus space by creating a playroom. Include plenty of shelving and storage, a play table, and maybe even a TV for playing movies.
 

Home office.

 
Even if you don’t work from home, a home office can be a great addition to your house. This is a place where everyone can get some peace and quiet to work on projects or homework. Before you start setting up your office, think about who is going to use it and what kind of setup they need to be successful. How many desks, chairs, and computers will you need? What kind of storage would be helpful? Answering these questions will help you set your office up for success, right from the beginning.
 

Den.

 
A den is the chameleon of rooms in your home. You can use a den for everything from a game room to a library. However your den will be utilized, you will want some kind of table, plus a good amount of shelving or storage, to help this room function at its best. If you have room, consider adding some additional seating, like a sofa or some chairs, to create a more cozy atmosphere in the room. Don’t forget great lighting elements to let you adjust the mood as needed.
 

Craft/workroom.

 
Every home should have a creative space. Crafting could be implemented into a home office or playroom, but if your family is really into crafting or some kind of “hands on” hobby, it would be really nice to have a room dedicated to that purpose. If you want to convert your bonus room into a craft room, make sure you have plenty of workspace and plenty of organized storage. Small boxes are great for holding odds and ends. To make a space more child proof, consider adding some floating shelves on the walls to keep markers, scissors, or other potentially messy or harmful items out of reach.
 

Movie room (theater).

 
A full-blown theater room is usually something you only see in very high end homes, but if your home happens to have a bonus room, you can get the same effect on a smaller scale. Set up a projector and screen (or just use a blank wall if you can), add some seating, and voila! Your own personal movie room.
 
A bonus room can be a really useful thing to have in your house. Don’t let it go to waste by letting it sit empty or using it for storage. Implement one of these ideas and start using your bonus room to its fullest potential.
 
If you’ve been using your bonus room for extra storage space, it’s time to clear it out! Use one of Arizona Storage Centers’ incredible storage facilities to keep your belongings secure, close at hand, and out of the way. With centers in Chandler, Gilbert, Phoenix, Deer Valley, and Glendale, we’ll be happy to help you meet any of your self-storage needs. Stop by today or give us a call at 480-386-6022. We look forward to serving you!
 

 
If you need to store some of your appliances in self-storage for a while, you should take extra care to store them properly. Appliances are a big investment and you don’t want them to get ruined when you’re trying to keep them safe.
 
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you’re moving your appliances to your self-storage unit.
 

Clean Them Well

 
Appliances can get really dirty, even with normal use. Even your appliances that are supposed to clean things, like your dishwasher and your washing machine, can get a lot of dirt or other gunk stuck in them. Here are the best ways to get each appliance really clean.
 
Refrigerator – Use your favorite all-purpose cleaner (or natural alternative) to wipe down all the shelves and drawers. Consider doing a scrub with a baking soda paste to remove any residual odors.
Microwave – Use an all-purpose kitchen cleaner to wipe down the insides of your microwave. If it’s especially dirty, place a bowl with a cup of water and a couple tablespoons of vinegar in the microwave, and “cook” it until the window steams up. This will help loosen any grime, which you can then wipe away easily.
Dishwasher – Check out your dishwasher’s owner’s manual to find out how to remove the filter. Clean and dry it well. Then run the dishwasher while empty, using a dishwasher cleaning product (available wherever you buy cleaning supplies).
Washer and dryer – Run your washer empty, using a specialized cleaning product (available wherever you buy cleaning supplies). Clean your dryer’s filter and check the owner’s manual to see if there are any other parts that need to be occasionally cleaned.
 
One more general note: make sure all appliances are completely dry before moving them into storage. You don’t want to encourage mold growth or water damage.
 

Transport Them Carefully

 
Before moving your appliances into storage, make sure that you are adequately equipped to move them. Hiring professionals is one way to make sure everything goes smoothly, but if you can’t do that, there are some other precautions you should take. Make sure you’re not working alone; you’ll need more than one person to move the heavy, bulky items. Also, determine a best way out of the house before you start moving the appliance (e.g. if a certain doorway is too narrow, is there another door you can use?). Finally, make sure your transportation is large enough to accommodate the appliances, and that you have what you need to secure them in place during your drive to the storage unit.
 

Store Them With Care

 
When it’s time to actually place your appliances in storage, store them carefully. Keep them upright and keep all the doors closed. If you can, remove the plugs and place them inside the appliance, along with any other external parts or accessories. If you can’t remove the plugs, roll up the cord and place them on top of the appliance, or tape them to the side, to keep them off the ground. Cover the appliances with a sheet to protect from dust.
 
With proper preparation, you can store your appliances safely and securely, and they’ll be in prime condition when you’re ready to use them again.
 
If you’re still hunting for self-storage in the Phoenix area, Arizona Storage Centers is the solution you’ve been looking for. We have centers in Phoenix, Deer Valley, Glendale, Gilbert, and Chandler, so your belongings are never too far out of reach. Our state of the art security and top-notch customer service will help you feel good about your choice. Stop by one of our centers today, or give us a call at 480-386-6022. We look forward to hearing from you.
 

 
If you’re looking for a self-storage unit, you might be overwhelmed by all your options. Most major cities have many options in many different locations, which means you have your pick of many choices. While this is generally considered a good thing, it might leave you wondering how you should go about narrowing down your options and actually picking one.
 
Here’s some of our best advice when it comes to choosing which storage facility is right for you.
 

Know your stuff.

 
To know what storage center is best for your stuff, you should start by knowing what stuff you want to store. You should know how much you have (a small closet’s worth? An apartment’s worth?) so that you can find the right size unit, and whether or not you’re storing any temperature sensitive items (like artwork or musical instruments) to know if you need any special requirements. Any facility that doesn’t meet your needs can be eliminated right off the bat.
 

Visit…or at least call.

 
While websites are great for finding storage facilities close to you, nothing can really compare to the experience of going to the facility, talking to the people, and seeing everything for yourself. If at all possible, make a quick visit to the centers you’re considering. If that’s not possible, you should at least call and talk to someone on the phone. You want to get a good idea of how they’ll interact with their customers and what level of service they provide.
 

Ask the right questions.

 
During your visit or phone call, make sure you ask the right questions so you’re sure to walk away with relevant information. Some questions you’ll want to be sure to ask are:
What security features do you offer (alarms, key codes, etc.)?
What size unit would you recommend for my needs?
Will I have 24 hour access to my unit?
What is the cost and how can I pay my bill? Do you require a contract?
 

Consider convenience.

 
As we mentioned, chances are good that you’ll be able to find a storage facility not too far from home. That said, there are other aspects to convenience that you should take into account when making your final decision. For example, you might want a facility that offers extended access hours, letting you get to your unit whenever you choose. Or, it might be important to you that you’re able to pay your bill online, rather than having to mail in a payment or drop off a check. Make sure you think about these things before you make your choice.
 

Check for cleanliness.

 
This is part of the reason why an in-person visit is so beneficial. You want to be able to check the cleanliness of the facility for yourself. Not only do you want to make sure your belongings will be safe from pests or other damage (by the way, be sure to ask about pest control), but noticing the center’s cleanliness might give you some insight on their attention to details.
 
If you’re about to commit to a storage center, it’s worth the time to do your homework and make sure you’re choosing one that fits your needs. Don’t trust your belongings to a whim; follow these steps and make a smart choice!
 
If you’re hunting for a storage facility in the Phoenix area, Arizona Storage Centers is a fantastic option. With a wide variety of unit sizes and features, effective security, and a high commitment to customer service, Arizona Storage Centers can meet all your self-storage needs. Stop by one of our facilities in Gilbert, Chandler, Deer Valley, Glendale, or Phoenix to learn more, or call us at 480-386-6022.