Indoor Storage Vs Outdoor Storage: Which should you use?

There are many reasons why you might be considering using self storage in Dorset. Whether you are moving house or offices, are having a de-clutter, or are looking for somewhere to store your caravan, motorhome, or classic car. But what kind of storage unit should you use, indoor or outdoor?

In this article, we will share some of the differences between each so that you can make an informed decision and get on with the real task at hand…sorting your belongings out.

Outdoor Storage Units

Outdoor storage units are exactly what they say, storage units that are outside. There are two types of outdoor storage; one is usually a shipping container and the other is an outdoor plot like a parking space that is used for motorhome, caravan or classic car storage.

These containers usually have drive-up or walk-up access, meaning that you can drive your car right up to the door of the unit and unload it directly into the storage space. It makes packing (or unpacking) your storage unit quick and easy as it is just a few steps to the next load each time.

This is especially helpful if you are planning to store heavy furniture and items as you won’t have to worry about navigating your way through corridors and hallways with your belongings on a trolley.

Items that can be stored in an outdoor storage unit include

Lawnmower and gardening equipment,
Bicycles,
Canoes or kayaks,
Camping gear,
Christmas decorations,
Garden Furniture,
And more.

At Hogleaze Storage, we currently only offer outdoor motorhome and caravan plots our self storage facility in Dorchester. However, as we expand our facility, container storage might be available in the future, keep an eye out on our Facebook page for further updates.

Things to Consider When Using Outdoor Storage

Outdoor storage units have a few points that should be considered before hiring one.

The container, motorhome, or caravan, is exposed to the weather and elements. If storing a motorhome or caravan in an outdoor unit you may want to consider using a cover to protect it from UV rays, or wet weather.

Most outdoor storage units aren’t temperature-controlled, so if you have items that are susceptible to extreme weather, such as extreme heat, bitter cold, or excessive humidity, this might not be the best option for you.

If you are looking to store something more valuable or sensitive, you might want to consider indoor storage at our Dorchester or Weymouth storage facilities.

Inside Storage Units

Again, an inside storage unit is exactly what it says, a storage unit that is inside a building.

With one of these, you will enter a building to access your belongings, meaning that if you pack your storage unit on a rainy day you will stay dry (mostly… no matter how close you get your car to the entrance, we can’t guarantee you won’t get wet). It also makes it easier when rummaging for that one item that you desperately need in the coming days, as you won’t have to worry about letting rain into your self-storage unit.

Indoor storage units in Dorset are often temperature controlled, making them a suitable place to store items that may be sensitive to the weather and other important belongings.

These storage units can sometimes feel a little more secure than outdoor storage, as the units are in an enclosed building, providing an extra level of protection. At Hogleaze Storage, our buildings are locked, and you will receive your own fob to gain entrance to them. Plus we have CCTV cameras around our Dorchester and Weymouth storage facilities, and our staff do regular inspections of the site to ensure your belongings are being stored safely.

Indoor storage units are suitable for the following items:

Collectibles,
Artwork,
Wine and spirits,
Household appliances,
Family heirlooms,
Photos and photo albums,
Plastic items such as toys,
Electronics,
Clothing,
Upholstered furniture,
Wooden furniture,
Mattresses.

As well as our indoor self storage units in Dorset, Hogleaze Storage also provides undercover caravan, motorhome and classic car storage plots, so you can benefit from the advantages of indoor units while storing your motorhome, caravan, or classic car. These plots are like indoor car parks, where you are allocated a space for your vehicle.

Things to Consider When Using Indoor Storage

Just like outdoor storage units, there are a few things that you should consider before hiring an indoor storage unit.

If you are looking for somewhere with easy access, you might not find this with indoor self storage. Depending on availability, you might end up with a storage unit upstairs, so you will have to wheel or carry belongings to a lift, and no matter where your storage unit is, you won’t be able to drive your car up to the entrance of the unit.

We have trolleys at both our Dorchester and Weymouth storage facilities, to make moving items to and from your car as easy as possible.

Made A Decision?

If you have decided that an indoor storage unit is what you might need to hold your items, we are here to help.

We are members of the Self Storage Association, meaning that we adhere to strict rules and regulations that guide self storage conditions so you can rest assured your belongings are in a safe and secure location.

To learn more about our Weymouth storage facility, give us a call on 01305 830000, or if you are looking for self storage in Dorchester, call us on 01305 889777.

How to organise your motorhome storage space

Wondering how to keep your motorhome organised? Decluttering your motorhome can be key to creating that little bit of extra room for you and your family. So whether you are going on a road trip or just wish for a change in scenery, these quick storage tips are guaranteed to improve your motorhome experience and keep your precious motor tidy throughout the winter season.

Space-saving motorhome storage ideas for the kitchens are

Let’s start with kitchens, the kitchen provides a multitude of opportunities to save space. There are many amazing storage products specially designed for motorhomes to maximise room.

Use drawer separators, they’ll be a massive help in avoiding mixing up all your cutlery. As a plus, nesting bowls can fit double, if not more, the amount of the bowls in the space you would only be able to fit a few. Along with this, foldable, rollable or collapsible kitchenware can be a space saving alternative, providing you with that little bit of extra storage space. Collapsible kettles, pots, pans and foldable drying racks are also available and a great way to have everything you need in the kitchen yet save space. Whilst non-slip matting can be essential in keeping your items in place and will prevent rattling whilst you’re driving.

If you want to take complete advantage of your cupboard space, consider installing under-cupboard shelves. They are usually made of plastic and you can add them under a cupboard, sink, or fridge or any other spots where you can find unused space. Don’t forget about the undersides of your hanging cupboards too! With plastic hooks, even this space can be taken advantage of to hang your kitchen utensils (mugs or pans).

When it comes to organising your motorhome kitchen space, you should only really take the items you know you’ll need. There’s little point in bringing something just for it to take up space! There’s no shame in being prepared, but being overly prepared certainly won’t help you or your motorhome in the long run. Plus, having these space saving items could mean that when your motorhome is in a motorhome storage facility in Dorset, everything is kept neat and tidy, ready for you to go out on another adventure when you are ready.

On the other hand, it’s equally important to also be careful with organiser products and storage containers. Many people can get carried away with their newfound ability to store all sorts of things in their motorhome, under the illusion of an organised space. If you throw everything in a drawer without separating or categorising it, you won’t even know where to look for it!

Space-saving motorhome storage ideas for wardrobes

Finding space for clothes in a cramped wardrobe can be an overwhelming task, but that’s what we are here for. Here’s how to get the most out of your motorhome wardrobe this winter.

Install storage units on the backs of any doors, they’ll come in handy, especially if you lack the space for a shelf. And if you do have room for shelves, perhaps consider hanging organisers with built-in drawers; a great alternative to shelves. Additionally, space saving hangers can be an affordable lifesaver in maximising storage space, serving to fit more clothes inside a wardrobe without creasing and rolling them all up.

Keeping your shoes in one place will also help you save space; a plastic container under your bed or your seating area should suffice, unless you have a shoe organiser inside your wardrobe or cupboard door. This storage space isn’t just great for shoes, as you don’t have to put shoes in it, it also works as a great storage space for gloves, hats, socks, underwear, scarves and any other foldable clothes. Plastic shoe boxes and containers are easy to clean, keeping that pesky mud at bay, whilst fitting almost anywhere.

These are just some of the ideas that you can use to take full advantage of your wardrobe space and organise all your clothes. As with our tips on the kitchen, it is crucially important to only take the clothes you’re certain you’ll wear to ensure you won’t dump your storage and floor space full with unnecessary items. Keeping your motorhome neat and organised when in motorhome storage in Dorset means that it is always ready for your next adventure.

Space saving motorhome storage ideas for bathrooms

Whether you are in a campervan or coach-built motorhome, chances are your bathroom is quite compact, so it’s extra important to use all the space you can in such an enclosed space. From the back of the door to the shower space itself, here are some ingenious solutions for your motorhome storage space dilemma.

Self-adhesive hooks and folders are simple to install and help in fully utilising your wall space, you don’t really even need tools or expert handyman skills to attach them to the wall! Choosing ‘damage free’ types can prevent damage to the plastic coated boards used in motorhomes.

Wall-mounted holders and baskets are a great form of space saving, making the most of your otherwise unused motorhome wall space. Whilst drawer separators help keep your items apart, even if you decide to store a plethora of different accessories in your drawers, you’ll still be able to easily locate them.

However, you might find that self-adhesive hooks and folders may not be durable enough. Sometimes, low-quality adhesive tape or glue loses its properties due to temperature and humidity, so it may be better to spend more in the short run to spend less in the long run.

Furthermore, putting more on the walls of your motorhome bathroom may risk limiting your mobility. Your already cramped and small bathroom space can get too cluttered so using it may be understandably very uncomfortable, so consider how much space you are saving versus how much space you are losing. It’s important to be conscious of how much weight you are putting on the walls too, heavier items can potentially cause damage to walls and fixtures. When putting your motorhome in storage in Dorset, it can be a lot of work to tidy and empty your bathroom. So save time and invest in these space saving products.

Where to store your motorhome and belongings

At Hogleaze Storage, we make caravan and motorhome storage affordable and simple. Whilst you’re not using your motorhome this winter, why not put it in our Dorset motorhome storage facility? If you are interested, give us a call at 01305 889777 or complete this form on our contact us page.

Tips for a Christmas clear out

With Christmas, comes more ‘stuff’! And with all the new presents, decorations and kids toys, it can mean your home ends up at bursting point.

Once the festivities are over and you want to put the house back together, this is a great time to have a good clear out and prepare to store all the items you don’t need day to day.

Our guide will help you make a plan for a proper clear out and what to do with your belongings once you’ve been through them all. A self-storage unit could be the answer to keeping your home clutter free and we’ll give you tips on how best to use it.

Make a plan

Normally when you embark on a mass clear out project, things get worse before they get better. So we suggest you have a bit of a plan in place as to how you’re going to tackle each area so things don’t get too chaotic.

Think about what you want to achieve, for example do you want to clear the spare room so guests can stay, do you need to declutter the kids’ bedrooms of all their old toys to make room for the new ones, or maybe the garage needs a good sort out to fit in the new bikes or to get the car in to avoid it being frosted up each morning.

Get a pad and paper and work out the key jobs and when you plan on doing them – you might want to dedicate a couple of the days between Christmas and new year.

Think about what you’re going to do with the items you either want to bin, send to charity or keep (but don’t need regular access to). If you’re going to bin things, consider where the items will be disposed off eg. the tip (check out the opening times) or you might want to hire a skip or skip bag.

In preparation, we recommend you buy some storage boxes, vacuum pack bags or baskets ready for the clear out.

Room by room

In case you don’t get round to everything you want to do, work on the most important area or room first. That way you will at least feel you’ve achieved the most important objective.

Go in prepared! We suggest you have 3 piles or bags at the ready. Bin, donate and store.

Go through the room in a logical order and if you need approval from anyone on whether to throw or keep items, make sure they’re around to decide, or put them in a different pile.

While you’re having a clear out, take this chance to organise the items that are staying in that room – maybe get a little storage unit for toys in kids rooms, get some under bed drawers for shoes or jumpers, baskets for bedding and towels in the airing cupboard etc.

Clothes storage is always a challenge! We’d recommend only keeping the items you will be wearing for that season in your bedroom. For example, in the autumn, bag up all your summer clothes and consider putting them into storage until you need them again. There’s no point in them taking up valuable space when you won’t need them for 9 months. If you are thinking about doing this, take a read of our last article on how to safely store clothes in a self storage unit.

If you’re looking to put any items in self-storage units, make sure they’re packaged well and that you label any boxes with what’s inside. It’s also worth taking an inventory of what you put in storage so you know what’s in there when you go to collect anything.

Hire a skip or skip bag

If you anticipate having a lot of rubbish or big items to dispose of, it might be best to hire a skip. If you want this during the festive period, it’s probably a good idea to book this in advance. Make sure you fill the skip effectively to get maximum use out of it. You might want to consider sharing a skip with your neighbour if they’re planning on a Christmas sort out too!

Get help!

This doesn’t have to be a solo job! We recommend giving everyone in the household their own jobs. Involve the kids in sorting their own toys and belongings out. You could even consider doing a car boot sale in the new year where they could sell their old toys for some pocket money.

Consider self storage

Using a self-storage unit can be the ideal way to keep your home clutter free. There are so many items we have in our homes that we may only need once or twice a year so why have them taking up valuable space? For example, consider using self-storage for things such as Christmas decorations, seasonal clothes, seasonal sports equipment such as paddleboards, watersports items or skiing kit.

At Hogleaze storage we offer our customers a choice of sizes of self storage units, depending on how much space you need. All of our storage units in Dorchester can be rented on a short-term or long-term basis. We also have self storage in Weymouth for individuals and businesses.

Why choose Hogleaze

At Hogleaze, we fully understand the responsibility we have of looking after your precious belongings. That’s why we have ensured that our self storage units are clean, secure and that we offer some of the most affordable storage solutions in Dorset.

Our security measures include number plate recognition, maximum security cameras, alarms and regular staff inspections.

We offer 24-hour access at our Dorchester site. You will receive a personal key fob that allows you access to your storage at any time.

Offering storage in Weymouth and Dorchester, we are able to provide you with a quote on our units and as we don’t require a deposit, you can start storing today!

To check availability of our self storage units in Dorchester, contact us on 01305 889777, or our self storage units in Weymouth, call 01305 830000.

Alternatively, fill out the form on our contact page and we will get in touch with you.

Tips for storing clothing in our self storage units

It seemed unseasonably warm at the start of November this year, but as we hit the middle of the month the cold weather has set in, and we are all starting to put our woolly hats and jumpers on to wrap up warm.

This change in weather often brings with it a change of wardrobe, with many of us finding space to put our summer clothes away, making room for the winter wear. But why struggle to fit it in any space you can find or go through a harsh clear out? A flexible self storage solution could save you time and energy, allowing you to focus on what really matters.

Below are a few of our tips for keeping clothing in self storage units.

Have a clear out

We know it can be hard, but it is always a good idea to have a clear out when looking for more space.

We have a few rules to follow when going through your clothes.

If you haven’t worn it in over a year, it is likely you won’t wear it again.
If items of clothing are damaged, get rid of them.

It can be painful, but a good clear out will always feel refreshing.

While there is an element of needing to be ruthless when having a clear out, don’t forget that self storage units are always an option. Just in case there is an outfit that is just waiting for another event to be used, think of self storage.

Wash the clothes first

Once you have a pile of clothes that you are going to put into a self storage unit, it is advisable that you make sure your clothes are in good, clean condition before going away. You don’t want to put them away for a few months and then get them out to find they are dirty and need a wash. If you run them through the washing machine & tumble dryer, (it’s essential you don’t store wet or damp clothes or accessories) so you won’t have to worry about needing to wash them when you need them, instead you will be able to wear the outfit.

Another reason to wash your clothes before putting them into self storage units is because deodorants and perfumes can stain clothes over an extended period of time.

Repair any damaged clothes that you are keeping

You also don’t want to get to spring and summer and find the clothes you now need are damaged and need repairing. Save yourself the disappointment and repair any damaged items now. Your future self will thank you.

Store any seasonal accessories

If you are the type of person that has accessories to go with each outfit and each season, then we recommend that you also store these in the self-storage unit. These items can be bulky and take up a lot of storage space when they are not in use.

Rather than leaving them lying around for several months not using them, box them up and put them out of the way in a self storage unit.

An added bonus of doing this is that all your seasonal clothes and the accessories that go with them will be together, so you won’t have a panic that you can’t find those specific shoes, scarf or necklace for this outfit when it comes to wearing it all.

Don’t bother ironing

Don’t waste time ironing items of clothing before putting them into a self storage unit. Your items will need to be folded neatly to go in the box, and over time creases will naturally develop. Spend time packing them up correctly now, and then iron it all when you take it out of storage.

Box up delicate clothing

If you are planning on putting clothing into a self storage unit for a longer period of time, we recommend that you box up clothing instead of vacuum-packing them. This way of storing things can have its advantages, but clothing made of wool and silk don’t do well inside them for extended periods of time.

Use good quality boxes for clothing that will be stored longer than a few weeks. If you need to get hold of some boxes, you can purchase them from us at great prices.

Label boxes

To be honest, we think this is something everyone should do, no matter what they are putting into self storage units. This can be especially handy when storing clothes in a self storage unit, as it will allow you to locate types of clothing easily when you need them. This could save you having to go through all of the boxes to find that pile of shorts or skirts that you packed away.

You can create a labelling system that works for you, whether this is naming each box by season, items or even colours.

If you are really organised, you can set up an inventory list of everything you are putting into storage that identifies all the clothing you’ve packed away. That way you can be confident that you haven’t lost them.

Store them in the right environment

Your clothes should be kept in a dark, cool and dry place. This will prevent any damage happening to them while they are in a self storage unit.

We regularly make sure that our units are sealed and dry, so this isn’t something you need to think about when using Hogleaze self storage solutions.

Hogleaze Storage self storage units

If you follow these tips, putting clothes into a self storage unit will be easy and stress-free and you can be confident that when you go to wear them again, they will be clean and in the best possible condition.

Hogleaze Storage is a safe and secure facility, with alarmed buildings and CCTV cameras across both our Dorchester and Weymouth facilities. Plus our staff complete regular walks around the sites to make sure everything is closed and locked up.

In addition to that, our Dorchester self storage units have key fob entry, and you will get your own personal fob on completion of paperwork.

We are proud members of the Self Storage Association, meaning that we adhere to strict operating principles and regulations.

Our contacts are flexible, as we know that you don’t always want to store your belongings for a long period of time.

To enquire about our self storage solutions you can call our Dorchester facility on 01305 889777 and our Weymouth facility on 01305 830000.

Alternatively you can fill out the form on our contact page.

Top tips for caravan and motorhome storage in winter

With temperatures dropping, most of us are packing our caravans and motorhomes away and starting to focus on getting warm and festive. Although you might not be out and about in your caravans and motorhomes now, it doesn’t change the fact that they can be your pride and joy. This means continuing to look after them while in motorhome or caravan storage so that they are ready to use at the first signs of spring.

There are a few important things that need to be done before your campervan or motorhome goes into hibernation for the winter.

In this article, we share 8 tips to keep your beloved motorhome or caravan in tip top shape, while in caravan or motorhome storage.

Drain the water tank

Whether you are using outdoor storage or undercover storage for your motorhome or caravan, it is important that you drain the internal water system before putting it away for winter. This is because if water is left in the tank, it can freeze and expand. The expansion of the ice is what causes the problems, as it can cause cracks in the pipework meaning the water system will leak when you come to fill it up again in the spring. Not ideal!

Empty the fridge

This one may sound obvious, but make sure that you empty any food and drink from the caravan or motorhome. You don’t want to have to deal with the smell of mouldy food when you go on your first exciting adventure next year! And of course you don’t want to risk attracting rodents to your caravan or motorhome while it is in storage.

We suggest that you prop the fridge door open using the latch while it isn’t on, so that it can be aired while not in use.

Turn off your gas taps

This one also feels a little bit obvious, but we think it is still worth mentioning. It can be easy to forget something when there are so many other things to think about while putting your motorhome or caravan into storage for winter.

To do this you will need to turn your on-board gas supply off at the cylinder in the rear gas locker. Run any remaining gas in the system through the grill, hob or oven, but when doing this make sure that you have windows open and leave them open for a little bit to air out the space and dispel the gas.

You might also need to detach all removable gas cylinders, and we recommend that you store that separately to your caravan, especially if you are putting your caravan or motorhome in outdoor or undercover storage. At Hogleaze Storage it is a requirement to remove all gas bottles and store them in our secure gas storage area.

Finally, turn off interior gas taps.

Remove bedding, clothing and soft furnishing

If you leave any clothing or soft furnishings in your caravan or motorhome while it is in storage they can become musty and sometimes a little damp when not moved for a long period of time.

No matter if you are using outdoor storage or indoor storage for your caravan or motorhome, we recommend that you take all clothing and soft furnishings out and air them for a little bit before putting them away for storage, or back in your wardrobe.

Wash it

When the daffodils spring and the sun starts to warm up, you want to be able to just jump in your caravan or motorhome and drive it straight out of storage to your first destination of the year. You don’t want to waste precious ‘adventure time’ cleaning it.

So take some time, before putting it into caravan or motorhome storage, to give it a good clean. Get your bucket and sponge or pressure washer out to clean the paintwork, alloy wheels, and roof. Try to remove as much dirt and road grime as possible as just a little bit of bird poo can cause paintwork damage that you really don’t want.

At Hogleaze Storage, you will have access to a pressure washer with a mounting platform making cleaning your caravan or motorhome easy.

Once the caravan or motorhome is clean, make sure you dry it thoroughly; you will be especially grateful for this if you are putting a cover on while using caravan or motorhome storage.

Which leads us onto our next tip…

Cover your caravan or motorhome

Caravans or motorhomes that are sat for extended periods of time can accumulate dirt and grim, especially if stored in outdoor storage.

If you are able to, it is recommended that you invest in a bespoke vehicle cover as this will fit your caravan or motorhome perfectly and stop leaf debris, dirt and water streaks from forming on your van’s paintwork.

If you have a solar panel, a cover will also protect that from any potential damage that the elements could cause. Although you will need to remember that a cover will mean the solar panel isn’t being charged while in storage. This will also be the case if you are using undercover storage for motorhomes or caravans but then trickle charging should be available.

If you can’t get a cover, then make sure that you have closed all the blinds or curtains to guard the interior from UV rays.

Charge the battery

If not in regular use, you will need to make sure that the leisure and vehicle batteries are being charged.

If you are planning on using caravan or motorhome storage for a long period of time, we suggest that you place the van on charge using the electric hook-up.

Keeping the leisure battery charged this way will also help to pass a trickle charge to the vehicle battery, keeping both healthy and ready to be used when you want to go out.

If you leave your motorhome or caravan for long periods of time, minor draw on the vehicle and leisure batteries can lead to battery sulphation, which in a lot of cases cannot be reversed.

Consider your tyres

When left for large amounts of time, tyres can get flat spots where they have been sitting in the same place for too long.

If you are planning on putting your caravan or motorhome in storage for a long time, then you should shift the position of the vehicle every so often, so that the pressure isn’t on one spot for all that time.

You could also consider getting wheel covers as they will prevent UV and weather damage.

Where to store your caravan or motorhome

At Hogleaze Storage we make caravan and motorhome storage affordable and simple.

Security of your vehicle is our priority, whether in outdoor storage or undercover storage. We have 24/7 security with CCTV cameras in place and automatic number plate registration (ANPR).

With undercover storage you will be given your own fob to open the alarmed roller doors with 24/7 access to your caravan or motorhome.

You will also have access to a pressure washer with mounting platform, so that you can wash your motorhome or caravan, including the roof, before going into storage. We also have a grey/blackwater discharge point and a waste skip, so that you can thoroughly clear out your caravan or motorhome.

Of course getting your caravan ready for winter storage can be a fair amount of work, so we have a drinking water refill point and on-site toilets.

Based just outside of Dorchester, we are perfectly located for caravan storage, with easy access to the world heritage coastline just off the A35 and A37.

If you are interested in our motorhome or caravan storage, get in touch with us by calling 01305 889777 or completing the form on our contact us page.

Tips for protecting and storing your garden furniture over autumn and winter

It is time to face the fact that after a gorgeous summer, we are heading into autumn… fast. So we are guessing that you are starting to think about where you are going to store all of your garden furniture.

The likelihood is that you are also thinking about how to keep your furniture safe and protected over the coming months so that it will all be fresh as a daisy and ready to use next year.

In this article, we have put together a few of our top tips for protecting your garden furniture over autumn and winter.

Storing wooden furniture

Wooden furniture is a good place for lichen and fungal spores to gather over the summer period. So, it is a good idea to give it a good scrub with a stiff brush and hot, soapy water before you put it into any storage.

Make sure that you allow it to dry properly before it goes into your garage, shed or storage unit. If it isn’t dry before you pack it all away, the lack of decent ventilation might cause it to rot or gather mould.

If you are leaving the wooden furniture outside, you should make sure that any legs aren’t on the ground, so that they don’t soak up any moisture from the floor.

If you are struggling to find an appropriate place to store your wooden furniture, why not store it in one of our storage units? Here they will be safe from the outdoor elements, so you don’t have to worry about moisture finding its way to your furniture and rotting it.

Storing plastic furniture

If your plastic furniture isn’t kept dry and somewhere with good air circulation, there is a risk that it will discolour while in storage.

As you should with wooden furniture, make sure you clean the furniture with hot, soapy water. However, with plastic furniture you should use a soft cloth rather than a stiff brush. You will also need to make sure that you dry it thoroughly before you put it into storage.

If you have found a stain that has occurred over summer, you can use neat bleach to get it back to its original whiteness – you may want to try this on a hidden area first though.

When you are putting your plastic furniture in storage you want to be considerate as to where you put it and how you stack it. Sometimes legs can be unsteady and a little flexible so make sure that they are put somewhere where they won’t be knocked constantly.

Storing rattan or wicker furniture

Furniture that is made up of wicker or rattan can be difficult to clean because of the weave. You can remove dust by using your vacuum and then you can use hot, soapy water to give it a good clean. Use a toothbrush to really get into all the nooks and crannies. Alternatively, you can give it a blast with a high pressure washer.

We should probably mention that you want to remove all of the cushions and any blankets before doing all of this!

Wicker garden furniture should always be kept indoors when it isn’t being used. And varnishing it before you put it into storage will prolong its life.

If your furniture is made out of synthetic rattan then it is designed to withstand the winter weather. However, there are a few steps that you should take to prevent it from getting damaged and keeping it in tip top condition.

Cover it with a PVC sheet or get some fitted furniture covers if you are leaving it outdoors during the colder months. If you don’t want to leave your wicker furniture outside but have run out of room in your garage or shed, you can store it at one of our self-storage facilities. We have a range of unit sizes, so finding a unit to fit all of your furniture safely, won’t be a problem.

We also have lifts and trollies at both of our facilities, so getting your garden furniture into your storage unit couldn’t be easier.

Storing iron furniture

Iron is at risk of rust when in storage. So, once you have cleaned the furniture with hot soapy water and a cleaning rag or cloth, it is a good idea that you check for any rust spots that might be beginning to blossom on the furniture. It probably goes without saying, but if you do find any rust, then remove it. You can remove any rust with rust removal products from any DIY shop, or you can try soaking it in white vinegar which can be applied with a soft rag and rub it in with aluminium foil.

Once you have got rid of the rust with the white vinegar, give it another rinse clean and allow it to dry completely before putting it away for the autumn and winter.

General tips for storing garden furniture

Weatherproof storage

If you are keeping your garden furniture in a shed, it is a good idea to check that the roof is waterproof and will keep out any rain, snow and ice that is likely to occur over the winter months. If you find that your roof isn’t weatherproof, you can store your furniture with us at Hogleaze Storage. Our units are completely sealed meaning that your garden furniture will be protected from the elements over the winter months. We also have a range of unit sizes, so that you can hire the perfect unit for what you need to store.

Storing fabrics

If you have fabric cushions to go on your garden furniture, it’s a good idea to store these indoors rather than in an external storage space like a shed. You don’t want mice and other creatures getting too comfy in your nice cushions! If you are storing your garden furniture in a self storage unit, you can store any fabric and cushions with the rest of the furniture. Hogleaze Storage is a secure facility and we make sure there are no animals around our units.

Secure storage

This one might seem a bit obvious but we still want to mention it.

Make sure that your shed or garage is secure. You never know, an opportunist burglar might pass your garage and take a chance. However, they are likely to be put off when they see a lock in place.

If you are unsure about the safety of your shed or garage, it might be an idea to place your garden furniture in a self storage facility. At Hogleaze Storage we have several security features so that you can rest assured that your belongings are safe with us. From CCTV cameras around the sites, to alarmed buildings and fob entry, we work hard to ensure the safety of your belongings.

Store with us today

There is a lot of information in this article, so we hope you have found it useful.

If you think storing your garden furniture in a self storage unit might be a good idea this winter, give our Dorchester facility a call on 01305 889777, or contact our Weymouth team on 01305 830000.

Tips for moving out of your parents

Moving out of your parents into your own space is a pretty big milestone, whether you are starting university and are moving into halls of residence, or have found the perfect place to truly find your independence and spread your wings.

Leaving the parent’s house is a big deal, and there is a lot to think about. So to make things a little easier for you, we have pulled together this helpful guide full of tips to make the whole experience as stress free as possible.

We should state that we are assuming that you have already done the hard bit and found somewhere to live …. unfortunately, we can’t help you with that!

Give yourself time to pack

Leaving packing till the last minute will make the whole thing very stressful.

You should have a bit of time between securing your own place and actually moving there, so use this time wisely. Make a list of everything that you will need in your new home. Think about what you have got and what you haven’t got? Then you can plan where you are going to get everything and when.

Once you have this sorted you can start to plan where you will start with packing; which room will you start with, what items?

By giving yourself time to pack, you will be allowing yourself time to be organised which will help the process of packing, moving and unpacking go smoothly.

Go through your belongings

Before you really start packing everything up, it is a good idea to go through your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t want (or don’t need!).

You might not have quite as much space in your new place, so it is important that you think about what you will really need in the space, and what might just get in the way.

Your parents might agree to keep a few things for you, maybe they will store some childhood treasures in their loft for now, but asking them to keep your lifesize Captain America cardboard cutout might be pushing it.

Try to be ruthless with what you do and don’t need, and remember things that you no longer need don’t have to go in the bin. Recycle, sell, gift or donate them; this is easy enough to do these days with platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree.

In the moments that you are struggling with this, just remember that this exercise will mean that you have less to load and unload when you actually come to move out. Future you will be thankful.

If there are a few things that you would like to keep that your parents are saying no to, self storage might be a solution. Hogleaze Storage has a variety of unit sizes for you to choose from to store any of your belongings. Our smallest unit is just 25sq ft, this is the size of a walk-in cupboard and is perfect for small loads of personal items.

Collect cardboard boxes and packing material

Obviously you will need something to pack in, and if you are organised with this you don’t have to spend a fortune on it.

Quite often apps that look to recycle everything and anything, such as Trash Nothing, will have ready made or flat pack boxes going for free to anyone who has a use for them. Scope out these apps to try and get your hands on what you need.

Alternatively, ask friends and family if they have any boxes lying around that were going into the recycling. That Hello Fresh box makes for a great storage box!

Don’t forget that there are eco-friendly alternatives to bubble wrap and other materials, so if you are wanting to keep your carbon footprint low on this move, do some research into that. We find that using your clothing, towels and tea towels work well to keep things safe when being moved around.

Pack your boxes sensibly

Packing seems like a big task…but just take it one box at a time, before you know it you will have packed everything up.

Make sure that you use the right boxes, put heavy things into smaller boxes so that you don’t fill a box up and then find that it is too heavy to move (we have been there so learn from our mistake).

When packing heavy things, put them at the bottom of the box and place anything lighter at the top. This is also a handy trick when packing up a truck or car on moving day too.

Make the most of the box and don’t leave any empty spaces. Fill in any gaps with clothing, towels or packing paper, the tighter packed a box is, the less likely any damage will occur.

Finally, make sure that boxes are closed properly and securely. Use a couple of pieces of tape to close the bottom and top seams. Then use what is called the ‘Movers Technique’ and wrap tape all the way around the box’s top and bottom edges, focusing on where stress is being put on the box from the contents inside.

Label your boxes

It is ideal if you don’t mix items from different rooms in one box because that means that you will be able to take each box into their designated room when you get to your new place.

Which brings us to our next point, make sure you label your boxes clearly so that whoever is helping you with your move will know where to put the box.

This is a massive tip to moving efficiently. You don’t really want to waste energy just dumping boxes in one place only to have to move them again later to unpack them in the right area. Label the boxes as you pack, and they are more likely to be put in the right area in your new home.

Top tip: We’d suggest labelling both the top and the side of the box (so you can see the writing from either angle) with the room it needs to go in and a brief overview of the contents, problem solved!

Arrange transport ahead of moving day

Take some time in the build up to moving day to think about how you are going to get things from your parents house to your new space.

Will you need to hire a van? Or can it be done by using your own cars?

If you are thinking about using a van to move anything into storage, we have a fully managed removal and storage service that can help. We can pick up your belongings and bring them to our storage facility, where we can then keep them safe for as long as you need and when you are ready to take them out of storage, we can deliver them back to you.

Where to go when you need additional space

Moving can be a bit fiddly, and sometimes it can be hard to find a home for everything straight away. Whether you created a pile of things before you move that you need to find a new home for, or you get to your new space to realise you have a little too much stuff at the moment, a self-storage solution is just what you need.

If you are looking for indoor storage local to Dorchester or Weymouth then get in touch with us to discuss your needs. We are very flexible and won’t tie you into a long contract, meaning we can store your belongings for a short period of time or for the long term.

Call us on 01305 830000 to chat with our Weymouth team, or call 01305 889777 to chat with our Dorchester team.

Our new Dorchester storage building: everything you need to know

If you have visited our Dorchester facility recently, or are following our Facebook page, you will have seen that we have an exciting new project being worked on. So what is going on? With such high demand for our classic car storage and undercover caravan storage, we thought it was about time we did something about it.

So, we have decided to turn an old, unused barn into a newer and bigger classic car storage building.

Knocking down the old barn

This isn’t going to be a simple case of converting the existing barn into a classic car storage. As the old barn wasn’t a completely enclosed building, it wouldn’t have provided much protection to your beloved cars. So the first step was to completely demolish the old building.

We had to take the roof off and then dismantle the metal structure. Of course when we say “we”, we don’t really mean “we” because we aren’t actually doing any of the manual labour; we have builders doing the whole lot.

Roof off and structure down — Structure starting to be taken apart

A pile of rubble

A month in and all that was remaining of the old building was a pile of rubble. We had a concrete crusher to grind it all up and then it was time to clear up the mess.

At the time of writing this, everything has been cleared away and we are now at the point where we can start digging the foundations of the new building. The exciting stuff starts here!

Clearing up of the rubble — Clearing of the rubble

If you want to be kept updated on the development of this project, head over to our Facebook page and give us a follow.

What’s to come?

As we mentioned at the beginning of this article this building will be a new classic car storage facility. The plan is for it to be a two storey building that will hold around 90 classic cars.

Not only will this building provide a lot more car spaces, it will be fully insulated to provide ideal conditions for your precious cars. There will be ramp access to the second floor, making it easy for everyone to access, no matter which floor your classic car is being stored on.

The plan is to store all the classic cars in the new building, and if space allows to also provide additional undercover storage for motorhomes and caravans.

Security at Hogleaze Storage

We don’t take storing your cars, caravans or motorhomes lightly; we know how important these can be to you so we do everything we can to make sure they will be safe with us.

There is a barrier at the site entrance to prevent any unauthorised entry. The entrance is also monitored by CCTV & ANPR (Automatic number plate recognition). Entrance to the buildings is by individual fob, meaning that only those with a fob can enter the buildings.

We also have security cameras around the sites which capture what is going on.

Find out more about our security features >>

“Immaculately clean storage, easy access and still very secure. Friendly and helpful staff.”
– Sheila Cornwell

Looking for classic car storage?

If you are currently looking for classic car, or undercover caravan or motorhome storage get in touch with our Dorchester office today by calling 01305 889777 or complete our contact form.

Check out some more of our helpful articles

We have a few articles that we think might be helpful if you are currently storing, or are considering storing your classic car, caravan or motorhome with us.

Tips on how to protect your classic car >>

Where to visit with your Caravan in Dorset this summer >>

And if you are looking for a little bit of light reading, why not check out the History of Hogleaze Storage.

Packing away your summer belongings… what type of storage you may need

The summer of 2021 came around and went pretty fast (despite the majority of us staying put in the UK since the beginning of 2020!). After speaking with many of our customers, it sounds like we all managed to make the most of it and enjoy what the Great British weather had in store for us.

So now summer is over for another year, we thought we would take a look into what people are storing with us, and what type of storage solution we would recommend.

Watersports equipment

Paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, surfboards, oars, wetsuits and everything else that you have to trawl down to the beach or harbour every time… Being this active is exhausting, right?

And now you have to find a home for all of it until next May time when it all starts again.

Our medium-sized storage units are plenty big enough to hold a range of different watersports equipment and are available at both our storage site locations. Looking for storage for sports equipment? Get in touch today.

Caravans and motorhomes

Unless you’re a hardcore motorhome/caravan enthusiast, chances are your pride and joy sits at home on your drive for a lot of the year and just makes its appearance during sunny weekends away throughout summer.

Whilst motorhomes are definitely not an eyesore, they are big, and that driveway space is precious nowadays. Plus, you don’t want to be leaving it out on the road if you can avoid it!

When storing your motorhome or caravan with Hogleaze Storage, you will have peace of mind that it will be in safe hands. We have indoor and outdoor plots at our Dorchester site, all of which are approximately 3 metres wide and 8 metres long.

Glamping and camping ‘stuff’

If you’re an avid camper you’ll know how much stuff you really need to take. Even if it’s just a long weekend trip, it can look like you packed for a 2 week holiday abroad. There’s tents, camping chairs, portable stove, battery packs, blankets, heaters, board games, air beds and sleeping bags (just to name a few things).

As well as saving space at home, keeping these belongings in a storage unit over winter can ensure that all this stuff doesn’t get damp or bitten away by mice in your garage. One of our smaller storage units up to 50 Sq Ft is a great alternative. You won’t have that last-minute fear that you’ll put your tent up with a huge hole right in the middle!

Outdoor furniture & BBQs

Not enough garage space? Outdoor furniture such as tables and chairs, sun loungers, other patio furniture, BBQs (or maybe that pizza oven you didn’t get much use out of) can be bulky and take up a lot of space. Quite frankly you will have probably only used it for about 2 or 3 months of the year. No fear, a storage option is here!

Our medium storage units are around the size of a single garage (75 – 100 Sq Ft) and are a good size for a typical two-bedroom home.

Your summer wardrobe

Are you one of those people that has a (slightly unhealthy) obsession with your wardrobe, but don’t have the space for your seasonal items to be hanging around? A smaller storage unit could be the answer.

Storing your clothes in a garage or similar can lead to them becoming damp and subsequently ruined, so a storage unit is a great option.

Our storage units start from 25 Sq Ft which coincidently is the perfect size for a small walk-in wardrobe.

Ready to sign on the dotted line?

Whether you are looking for a small 25 Sq Ft unit or the biggest we have at 150 Sq Ft, we are sure to find the perfect solution for your summer belongings.

We have storage sites at both Dorchester and Weymouth in Dorset. We always try to accommodate people, but if we don’t have availability you can always join our waiting list and we will be in touch with you.

For Weymouth self storage call our Weymouth branch on 01305 830000, and for Dorchester self storage call us on 01305 889777. If you are looking for vehicle storage, please call our Dorchester branch on 01305 889777.

Don’t forget, no deposit is required, so start storing today!

Top tips for storing valuables in a storage unit

At Hogleaze Storage, we see a wide range of items being left in our Dorset storage units. From sentimental pieces to higher worth items like antiques and furniture – we’ve seen it all!

With this in mind, we wanted to provide you with some top tips for storing your valuables.

Label everything and keep a record of it

Regardless of which valuables you are storing, for peace of mind when you come to take it out of your unit, labelling everything is essential. It will allow you to also know what items will be fragile as well, avoiding any breakages along the way!

Before you fill up your storage unit, it’s important to also make an inventory of what is being stored. This way you will have documented every item and won’t have to worry about forgetting where you’ve put it.

Protect those precious antiques

A very common item to be stored at Hogleaze Storage is antiques, as many people don’t want to sell them but just don’t have space in their home anymore.

Fortunately, by storing these valuables in a secure storage unit, you can be rest assured that you won’t have any damp problems, which is a frequent issue people can get when storing antiques in garages, sheds or outhouses.

Antiques come in all shapes and sizes so it’s important you protect them as best as you can:

Use cardboard corners – these are handy for sharp breakable objects such as mirrors or units
Use bubble wrap for smaller items
Cover with sheets or fabric covers to avoid scratches, bumps, bruises and further damage
Box ‘em up!

Keep your storage unit and valuables clean

The last thing you want to do is get your valuables dirty or ruined when moving them from your home into your unit.

Some items, such as books, need to be kept dust free to preserve them, you especially don’t want a case of mould building up on your precious items. A quick dust around your unit every now and then can make a big difference.

Remember: Don’t use harsh chemicals on valuables as this can tarnish them.

Make full use of your storage space

You want to make sure you make use of every inch of your unit whilst still making sure it’s accessible and has been stacked safely to ensure breakables or valuables stay intact.

So whether you have a 25sqft or 150sqft space to play with, think carefully about your storage stacking:

Stack longer items such as mirrors horizontally to avoid them falling over
Stack similar sized items on top of each other
Don’t try a balancing act just to get more in your unit, know when enough is enough
Consider if you will need to access items at the back, make a small galley if your unit is big enough
Use boxes to avoid things falling over
Use the labelling technique we mentioned earlier
Ensure all boxes to be stacked are full, especially when storing books

Check the security of your storage unit

When choosing somewhere to store your valuables, your first thought will probably be ‘are my valuables safe?’ Hogleaze Storage puts the safety of your items first with the following measures:

CCTV cameras
Key fob entry
Surveillance
Alarmed entry
Number plate recognition on entry
Insurance for your goods stored can be arranged

Contact Hogleaze Storage for your storage units

Hopefully, this article has given you some food for thought when it comes to keeping your valuables safe in a storage unit.

For more tips and advice, follow us on Facebook, alternatively, for a free storage unit quote, get in touch with our Dorchester team on 01305 889777 or Weymouth on 01305 830000.