Moving house? Brace yourself, because it ranks as one of life’s most stressful and emotional events – bar none! It involves uprooting your comfortable life, dealing with a flurry of logistical details, and managing the emotional upheaval that often accompanies big changes. And that’s when kids aren’t in the equation!

If you add children to the recipe, the complexity and stress can multiply – in an almost exponential way. For you parents, it means managing your own stress whilst simultaneously supporting your children through an equally tumultuous time but without the help of your adult brain and years of hard-won experience. And for the kids, while their initial excitement of a new home and adventure might be palpable, the reality of leaving behind familiar surroundings, friends and routines can actually be extraordinarily distressing.

In this blog, we’re going to dive into how to ease this transition for both parents and children – with every insight drawn from those in the moving and related industries.

Expert insights: Making moving easier for everyone

Moving house with children involves more than just packing boxes – it’s about managing the emotions and expectations across the entire family and beyond. Seasoned professionals from the moving-related industry have pooled their knowledge to offer easy and actionable advice, ensuring that your move is as smooth as possible for both you and your little ones. Right here, we’ll explore and expand on these tips across the three critical stages: preparation before the move, the moving day itself, and settling into your new home and beyond.

Practical tips for a family-friendly move

1. Preparation before the move

Involve your kids in the process: Don’t shut your kids out, but instead allow and encourage them to participate in those moving preparations.

They really can help pack up their toys, and even choose items to decorate their new room – which can make the transition feel more exciting and less intimidating.

Visit your new home together: If it’s possible, visit your new home with your children way before moving day – and as many times as possible. This includes open inspections, contract signing days, and post-settlement visits. It will help them clearly visualise where they will be living, and reduce that awful anxiety about the unknown that they may have.

Clear clutter with self-storage: To make moving less overwhelming for you and for the little ones, consider using a self-storage unit to securely and affordable store all those non-essential items. You can begin to do this at any point in the process, de-cluttering your current home and majorly simplifying the moving process.

2. The big day

Keep a familiar routine: Try to maintain as normal a routine as possible on the actual moving day. Don’t forget those meal and snack times that they’re used to – and keep a bag of your child’s favourite and reassuring toys right on hand to provide comfort and distraction.

Safety & supervision: Make sure you have a plan for who’s watching the kids while the heavy lifting is taking place. Maybe a trusted but otherwise not-involved friend or family member can help with this – so you can focus on the move without worrying about their safety and wellbeing and adding to your own skyrocketing stress-levels!

3. Post-move

Set up the kids’ rooms first: Before you think about yourself, make your priority the setting up of your children’s rooms. All that familiar bedding, toys and decorations can instantly make the new space feel like home a lot more quickly.

Explore together: Once you’ve settled in, explore your new neighbourhood together – as a family. Find and enjoy those local parks, libraries and other amenities, which will help your kids and the whole family feel much more connected to the new area as soon as possible.

Extra tips:

• Let your kids get a start on their own packing
• Create a transition scrapbook, combining memories of the old home with images of the next destination
• Let your kids’ new school know about the move, including their specific needs or fears
• Don’t dismiss your kids’ worries, and don’t be afraid to talk with them about your own!
• Get involved in decorating your kids’ new rooms, ensuring to let them take some control over how they want to present their new space.

Conquering the move: How Jim’s Self Storage can help

Moving with kids may seem like one of the mount daunting experiences of your entire life – and you wouldn’t be wrong! But with a bit of foresight, preparation and expert-driven strategies, you really can make it as smooth as is humanly possible.

If the prospect of a temporary storage solution during your move sounds like it may be a big help, consider Jim’s Self Storage in Williamstown. With our variety of storage options, secure facilities and super-supportive customer service, Jim’s can make your move easier. Give Jim’s Self Storage a deeper look today to find out how we can help with your family’s big move.

We almost certainly don’t need to tell you this, but relocating from one home to your next abode can be one of life’s most challenging and stressful experiences. Because it’s not just about moving your stuff from one place to the next – it’s about juggling and coping with the emotional and practical upheavals that go with such a massive change. Some of you may even find yourselves in need of temporary housing – due to delays in your new home’s readiness, renovations, or even more complex scenarios like extended travel or managing estate affairs.

Ease your transition with expert advice

From moving companies to self-storage units and beyond, those of us with years of hands-on experience have accumulated a treasure-trove of tips that really can make your temporary housing experience as smooth as possible.

Our 8 expert tips for smoother temporary living

Leveraging these insights and practical tips can significantly ease the stress, confusion and expense typically associated with such life-changing transitions.

1. Strategise your packing

Are you not even sure how long you’ll be in temporary housing? Let’s strategise your packing by categorising and dividing your belongings into ‘essentials’, ‘occasional use’, and ‘storage’. The essentials will always be with you, freeing up your mind to think about what additional things you might need seasonally. Only the rest should definitely go into storage, giving you the ability to cut some costs by renting a smaller unit.

2. Understand storage options

We’ve mentioned storage already, but realise this: Not all storage solutions are created equal! Self-storage has emerged as the increasingly popular, flexible and affordable do-it-yourself option where you rent a unit and handle the moving and the managing of your belongings yourself. It offers unparalleled control and accessibility without compromising on security, and is ideal for those of you in temporary housing who may need or want to access your things locally, frequently or at irregular hours. And many self-storage facilities these days also offer trailers, trolleys and packing materials that make the entire process even easier.

3. Stay organised

Take a little bit of time to create and then keep a detailed checklist of the moving tasks and schedule that’s ahead of you – so that it’s not all floating around your already-stressed mind in the middle of the night. Don’t forget deadlines, the setting up of utilities, and important dates related to your temporary and permanent housing situations.

4. Maintain a routine

You may not be there for long, but hang on to as much of your normal routine as you can. If you love to work out, find a new gym or walking trail, and if you enjoy cooking, keep preparing your favourite dishes – and try to enjoy the process of finding new local spots, supermarkets and pubs.

5. Digitise important documents

You have a lot of furniture and items, but don’t forget about those critical documents like birth certificates, marriage licenses, insurance policies and lease agreements that you simply cannot afford to lose in the process. Scan and store them online in secure cloud storage, meaning that no matter where you are, your important paperwork is only ever just a few clicks away, safeguarded against loss or damage during the move.

6. Set up a temporary mailbox

Use a mail forwarding or PO Box near your temporary location, ensuring you don’t miss important correspondence during your transition period.

7. Create a comfortable, familiar environment

No matter where you are, or how long you need to be there, bring along your favourite items – could be pictures, could be pillows, could be any of the small touches that will make an unfamiliar space feel more like home.

8. Embrace flexibility in housing

Think outside the box for your temporary housing options – whether short-term rental, extended-stay hotels, or even sublets. Each has its advantages depending on your situation, such as furnishing, lease flexibility and amenities.

From old to temporary to permanent: Smooth your journey

Making a temporary housing ‘pitstop’ between your old place and your new one doesn’t need to be as difficult and stressful as it sounds. From smart storage choices to creating a homely environment, every single expert tip should make it all a little easier and smoother.

Ready to secure your belongings with trusted, local experts? Give us a shout right here at Jim’s Self Storage Williamstown, and let us help make your big move as seamless as possible.

The concept of downsizing your home has always been there, but it’s been getting more and popular as time goes on. Why’s that? Well, the simpler lifestyle has also been attractive, with a more manageable space for retirement. But as the cost of living spirals out of control, it’s no surprise that finding out how to start downsizing your home is more prevalent than ever.

Downsizing your home for retirement?

Let’s be honest: downsizing your home is hard. And that’s doubly true when you consider the stage of life in which most people undertake this journey. But just because something is hard doesn’t mean it’s not a thing worth doing. And in actual fact, the expected and the unexpected benefits of downsizing your home embodies a truly transformative process that can turn out to be a highlight and turning-point of your life!

At the core of this transformation is realising that downsizing isn’t merely about reducing physical space – it’s a bold step towards crafting a more personal, fulfilling, affordable, sustainable lifestyle. But as much as it may make perfect sense, navigating the process is no less overwhelming. Need a little help and guidance? You’ve come to the right place.

The essential guide to downsizing your home

So what’s it all about? Answer: emotional and logistical preparation. Here’s our numbered, comprehensive downsizing your home checklist, designed to guide you through the process with practicality and ease:

1. Understand the Pros and Cons of downsizing your home

Before making the big call, weigh up the pros and cons of downsizing your home. It means you’re making the most informed choice – one that aligns with your lifestyle, financial goals, and personal aspirations.

• Reduced expenses
• Emotional challenges
• Less maintenance
• Downsizing costs
• Simplified lifestyle
• Adjusting to a smaller space
• Increased cash flow
• Sorting through belongings

Freedom of Small Living

Smaller living spaces are cheaper to heat and cool. They’re also much less work to clean and maintain. How much of your monthly budget is spent caring for and maintaining rooms that you don’t use? Use your self storage unit to reduce the amount of personal possessions you’re currently working around to see what downsizing can feel like.

Live Comfortably In A Single Storey

Many of us lose the ability to safely and comfortably climb stairs as we age. However, one bad fall while doing the laundry or vacuuming can be severe. If you’re living in multi-storey house, your home may quickly become a health hazard if you have an accident. Downsizing to a safer home is made easier with personal storage.

Sell Your Home Faster

Interested in selling your home? Self storage can make it easier to put your home on the market and stage a home for sale. Pack away your personal belongings and do your best to reduce clutter in your current home. You want potential buyers to see your home as a space they could make their own and this will be easier if your personal stamp is temporarily removed. Of course, you’ll need your personal belongings back when you move into your new space, and you can easily retrieve your items with our storage facility.

2. How to start downsizing your home

Begin by setting clear, achievable goals. What do you hope to accomplish by downsizing? Is it financial savings, reduced maintenance, or perhaps a closer-knit community? Identifying your objectives early on can guide your decisions throughout the entire process.

3. Create a downsizing your home checklist

Organisation is key when downsizing. So draft a clear personal checklist that covers sorting your belongings, important dates, and any necessary arrangements like hiring movers or scheduling donations. This will help streamline the process, making it more manageable and less daunting.

4. Embrace the minimalist approach

Downsizing offers the perfect opportunity to de-clutter – a rewarding experience in and of itself. Adopt a minimalist mindset, keeping only what you love or need, and be strict about it. Remember, each item you decide to keep should have a defined purpose in your next home. If not, chuck it out!

5. The magic of renting self-storage

Renting an affordable self-storage unit can be an invaluable strategy when downsizing your home. It allows you to keep items you’re not ready to part with, or seasonal belongings, without cluttering up your new, smaller space. This approach can be particularly beneficial short-term as you transition and decide what stays and what goes, but you might also choose to keep it long-term as it can make seriously good financial and practical sense.

7. How to cope with downsizing your home

Downsizing can be an emotional rollercoaster, to put it mildly. So, allow yourself to feel and express these emotions – and don’t be shy about it. Seek support from friends, family, or professionals who can offer guidance and reassurance throughout this significant life change.

8. Plan your new space

Before moving, plan the layout or required features of your new home. This foresight will help you make informed decisions about what furniture and belongings will fit and how they’ll serve your new living environment.

Simplify your life with Jim’s Self Storage in Williamstown

For those in the Williamstown, Melbourne area and surrounds, Jim’s Storage can be an ideal partner in your downsizing journey. Offering flexible, secure and conveniently located Melbourne storage solutions, Jim’s caters to the full spectrum of needs – from short-term transitions to long-term decluttering strategies! Embrace the unexpected benefits of downsizing your home with a business that understands all the nuances of this life-changing process.

Self storage can make many of your possessions “out of sight and out of mind.” That’s how it can empower you to be a lot more tranquil. It can often be taxing to have to monitor an abundance of items all at the same time. If you want to make your life neat and more organised, then self storage can be a true lifesaver for you. Jim’s Self Storage has been accommodating people who are in the process of retiring for a long while now, retiree’s in Altona, Altona North, Yarraville, Spotswood, Brooklyn and across the western suburbs have taken advantage of our services.

Need help downsizing your home? Remember, the path to a more manageable home is within reach – and start believing it! With the right strategies, support, and resources like those offered by Jim’s Self Storage, you can navigate the complexities of downsizing with confidence. Are you ready to take the first bold steps in your downsizing journey? Give us a shout at Jim’s Self Storage, and discover how we can help create the simplified, fulfilling lifestyle you so deserve.

Are you one of those people who just love uncovering hidden gems in Melbourne? You’re in for a treat because nestled amid the bustling and sprawling cityscape of Melbourne, the western suburbs hold a treasure trove of hidden gems that often go completely unnoticed by the typical tourist trail. And here at Jim’s Self Storage, we’re not just about providing top-notch storage solutions – we’re also super-passionate about our local community. Why? Because we live here too! That’s why we asked our staff to share their favourite off-the-beaten-trail attractions in a place you already probably know very well.

Hidden Melbourne gems: Our staff know all the best spots!

We asked, now they tell! So here’s our curated list courtesy of the hard-working guys and gals of Jim’s Self Storage, promising an authentic and exclusive local experience like you’ve never experienced before with their personal favourite Melbourne hidden gems!

1. Altona Beach’s most secluded spots

Altona Beach may be known for its popular family-friendly vibes and picturesque views, but here at Jim’s, our guys n girls have tipped us off about the quieter spots along its stretch. They’re the hidden gems Melbourne aficionados haven’t even heard of!

Head towards the southern end near Logan Reserve to find a seriously peaceful and quiet spot away from the usual crowds. It’s perfect for a serene sunset walk or an uninterrupted afternoon with a book. The shallow waters here are ideal for a refreshing dip, with fewer people around.

2. Kororoit Creek’s hidden trails

Here, at one of the hidden secrets Melbourne locals keep close to their chests, you’ll find a lush escape into nature, with Kororoit Creek’s hidden trails and abundant wildlife. Not many venture beyond the popular paths, but those who do are rewarded with tranquil spots perfect for fishing, bird watching, or a quiet picnic.

The Kororoit Creek Trail, especially near the Brooklyn Reserve, is less frequented than many others and offers picturesque views and a peaceful ambience. You won’t regret it!

3. The forgotten ruins of Gellibrand Hill

Tucked away in Woodlands Historic Park, the ruins of Gellibrand Hill are a piece of forgotten history amidst the most stunning of natural settings. Our team have recommended visiting at dusk, when the setting sun bathes the ruins in a golden glow, creating a mystical atmosphere.

It’s a fantastic spot for photographers or anyone looking to step back in time.

4. Spotswood’s industrial charm

Spotswood might be known for the amazing Scienceworks Museum, but its industrial backstreets hold a much more unique charm. Explore the area a little deeper on your next visit to find quirky art studios, hidden cafes, and unique boutiques that celebrate the suburb’s industrial heritage.

One such gem is the tucked-away cafe known as The Boiler Room, which is renowned by those in the know for its strong coffee and industrial-chic decor.

5. The Secret Gardens of Werribee

Behind the grandeur of the Werribee Mansion lies the lesser-known Victoria State Rose Garden – and the even less ventured Werribee Park Sculpture Walk.

However, here at Jim’s, our faithful staff whisper about the even less frequented ‘Secret Gardens’ within the Werribee Park precinct. They offer a tranquil retreat with stunning floral displays and secluded spots perfect for contemplation or a romantic stroll that you’ll never forget.

6. Laverton’s local markets

The Laverton Market, locally known as the Rubble & Riches Market, is a prominent weekend spot. So while it may not be a secret, the treasures you can find there certainly are! One popular staff member at Jim’s absolutely raves about the hidden gems within this bustling marketplace – from vintage finds to artisanal goods and so much more in between.

It’s a place in Laverton where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, taste diverse cuisines, and perhaps stumble upon something totally unexpected!

7. The back alley art of Footscray

Footscray’s vibrant art scene is definitely no secret, but the real treasures lie in its back alleys and side streets that you’ve never dared venture down. But please do! Here, stunning murals and graffiti art transform ordinary walls into canvases, showcasing the suburb’s creative spirit in true Jim’s style!

Our guys suggest wandering without a map and letting the colours lead you to discover Footscray and it’s dynamic urban art scene.

8. The tranquillity of Newport Lakes

Newport Lakes, a hidden oasis amidst the urban sprawl, is a reclaimed quarry turned into a conservation park that hopefully will live forever. It’s a favourite among our team for its serene walking tracks, and stunning native flora & fauna.

The park’s seclusion makes it an ideal spot for meditation, bird watching, or simply enjoying a rare moment of much-needed peace right in Newport.

Secret Melbourne: Want to go even deeper?

Truly hidden places in Melbourne may be rare, but believe us: Melbourne’s western suburbs are absolutely brimming with hidden gems waiting to be discovered – by you! From tranquil natural retreats to vibrant cultural spots, we hope the secret recommendations of our hard-working guys n gals here at Jim’s Self Storage have given you a unique glimpse into the local life beyond the typical tourist attractions. So, next time you’re looking for something local to do, take a little detour and explore these secret Jim’s spots. After all, you might just find your new favourite place in the whole of brilliant Melbourne! When it comes time for storage, a not so hidden gem is our storage facility in Melbourne’s western suburbs, with affordable, secure units waiting for you.

It will come as no surprise, but all sorts of people – like you – just love clothes. It’s now consistently one of the top things we buy online, as choices get more exciting, the fashion world expands and prices become ever more competitive. But the deeper you explore that love for clothes, the more likely you will eventually come across the need to explore the topic of today’s blog: Storing clothes long term from Williamstown Storage.

Indeed, with all those clothes expressing your personality and tastes comes a new problem: there’s only so much wardrobe space. Clothing and fashion are seasonal, you know your interest in something will pick back up, those heavy winter coats won’t be needed for a while, or you may want to eventually hand an item or two down to children.

The solution? Clothes storage. Here’s what to know:

1. Be discerning

Of course, the idea of turning to a self-storage service like Jim’s is so you don’t need to throw out, give away or sell some of the cool stuff that you really love. But that’s the point – is it really all ‘cool stuff that you love?’

So before you ask that question ‘How to store clothes’, the first thing to do is to actually just be honest with yourself and declutter your home. Grab an item and ask yourself if you really can imagine putting it on again … ever! Is it worn out? Have you always suspected it ‘makes me look fat’? If you think the item’s useful life is really over, get rid of it rather than waste space storing clothes long term.

2. Store them clean

Once you’ve decided what to store, don’t make the mistake of not giving them the old ‘sniff test’. No, you’re not wearing them to the disco tonight, but grime and stains in dirty clothes will only become more embedded over time, making them more difficult to get into tip-top shape once you’re ready to wear them again.

And not just that, clothes that remain dirty over long periods of clothing are more susceptible to damage, especially by insects and vermin. But don’t make them TOO clean, as cleaning chemicals can also damage the fabric if left on.

3. Pay attention to the packing

Now they’re all fresh and clean, it’s just a matter of throwing them on the storage pile – right? Wrong! While you don’t need to present them with a bow, never forget that the clothes are going to be in their present shape, form and location for a decent stretch – so pay attention to how they are packed. Light delicate items beneath much heavier ones are therefore a bad idea, while packing things too closely together or tightly could result in a loss of shape over time.

4. Give your clothes some space

Vacuum storage bags for clothes are widely available and can be great space savers. But there’s another great reason to avoid cramming lots and lots of clothes into a tight storage space. Most clothes include natural fibres like cotton, linen and wool in the mix, and not letting them ‘breathe’ is an invitation for things to go wrong. Natural fibres need air to maintain their structure, so sucking all of the air out of the bag compresses the garments and fibres. For delicate or expensive items, it may be best to avoid the risk.

5. Choose the right clothes storage solutions

Making sure your clothes come out of storage in exactly the same condition they went in is a whole lot easier if you simply think about the storage location. If you are storing clothes at home, choose a location that is clean, cool, dark and dry. Renting a small long term storage unit in Melbourne is a relatively inexpensive option to store your clothes without taking up more space at home. The best thing is you can use the space for any other seasonal storage as well!

Jim’s: Perfectly tailored to every Melbourne locale

Here at Jim’s, we could hardly love Melbourne’s diverse patchwork of suburbs more than we do – from the coastal vibes of Williamstown to the family-friendly streets of Point Cook. We recognise that your fashion and storage needs are as varied as the local landscape, so let’s stitch together how the unique character of each area weaves into the specific tastes and lifestyles of the neighbourhoods you call home.

Coastal chic: Williamstown to Seaholme

In the salt-tinged corners of Williamstown, Altona, Seaholme and surrounds, there’s a natural affinity for beachwear and surf gear to suit the coastal life. Perhaps you’ll use Jim’s Self Storage to rotate your wardrobes, stowing away the hefty winter gear in favour of light linens and swimwear as the mercury rises.

Family foundations: Altona Meadows to Hoppers Crossing

In the more suburban heartlands of Altona Meadows, Hoppers Crossing, and Point Cook, though, families flourish more than fashion. Self-storage therefore becomes a haven for cherished childhood clothing and keepsakes. As those children sprout, Jim’s offers families the option to keep these memories intact without clutter.

Urban pulse: Yarraville to Footscray

Melbourne’s surrounds also pulse with seriously urban energy – like Yarraville, Kingsville, Footscray and Seddon. They all pulse with urban energy, where fashion is often as eclectic as the cuisine. Storage solutions at Jim’s allow you to manage an extensive wardrobe, swapping out avant-garde pieces for just the right season as you maintain the fashion edge without sacrificing space.

Industrial edges: Laverton to Brooklyn

The more industrial precincts of Laverton, Brooklyn and Spotswood, in contrast, attract professionals who balance functional workwear with casual home attire. Use our storage units to separate the heavy-duty gear from the delicate fabrics, preserving the integrity of both.

Green suburban: Werribee to Seabrook

In Werribee and Seabrook, with their greener landscapes and spacious homes, locals see self-storage as the perfect solution for their adventure gear. From cycling kits to hiking boots, gardening apparel and beyond, don’t let it take up space when it’s not being used – give it all a second home at Jim’s.

The heart of convenience: Newport to Point Cook

Convenience, however, is king for Newport, Seddon and Point Cook residents and business owners. For you guys, self-storage is maybe less about space and more about ease of access. Use Jim’s Self Storage to ensure your varied hobbies – from golf to scuba diving – don’t overwhelm your living spaces. The ease of popping over to Jim’s makes it a seamless extension of your home.

Each Melbourne location brings its unique flair to fashion and lifestyle – and Jim’s Self Storage is always ready to complement these diverse needs with carefully-tailored storage solutions that never break the bank. So if you are in Melbourne, indulge your love for owning plenty of clothes and confidently expand well beyond the tight confines of your wardrobe. Get in touch with Jim’s Self Storage to book your storage today!

If there’s something we know about here at Jim’s, it’s storage. And if there’s something that has changed about how so many people work in this new Covid-19 world, it’s the switch to setting up an office at home. So we thought it was the perfect opportunity to answer one of the most commonly asked questions asked by those setting up home offices: Where to put all of that stuff? The perfect place to start is right here, with our brilliant home office storage ideas.

It wasn’t too long ago that the big dream was for a big, grand home with plenty of space to stretch out. But things are changing fast. People are more environmentally minded. They want something low maintenance. The cost of houses and living is high. All of this means that demand for small homes and apartment living is higher than ever. The only problem with that is that it’s all too easy to run out of space for our stuff. What’s the answer? Smart apartment storage ideas, of course!

Here are some storage ideas for apartments that can also be used in any situation where space is at a premium.

1. Vertical storage for apartment living

A tight space can quickly become cluttered if you try to have everything within easy arm’s reach. Extending cupboards and shelves to the ceiling can make a huge difference. By storing things you need less often in these new spaces there’s really no inconvenience at all. Use it for cooking supplies, kids toys, extra linen, books (which look amazing when stacked from the ceiling to the floor) and the like.

We can’t mention going high without going low, especially when low storage can actually be easily reached with a little bend of the back.

There are places to convert into low storage that you’ve probably never considered. Those kitchen kick-boards, for instance, can quite easily become nooks or extra drawers, and the cupboards under the sink are all too often an under-utilised storage ‘dead zone’. Take another look at furniture – are there storage havens under your bed or coffee table?

2. Under Bed Storage

Under-bed storage containers are a great way to utilise the space under your bed for storage. These containers come in a variety of sizes and styles, and can be used to store out-of-season clothing, linens, and other household items. They’re especially useful for items that you don’t need to access very often, as they can be tucked away under the bed and out of sight.

3. Hanging Organisers

Hanging organisers or over-the-door organisers are a convenient way to store shoes, bags, and other accessories. These organisers typically feature pockets or hooks that allow you to hang items, keeping them off the floor and out of the way. They’re a great option for small apartments where space is at a premium.

4. Fold Out Couches

Folding beds or futons can be a great way to create extra storage space in an apartment. When not in use, these beds can be folded up and stored against a wall or in a closet, freeing up valuable floor space. They’re a good option for guest rooms or for apartments where you need to be able to convert a room into a home office or guest room on demand.

5. Storage Chests

A storage bench or chest can be a great addition to an apartment, providing a place to store items in the entryway or at the foot of the bed. These pieces of furniture typically have a lift-up lid or drawers, providing a convenient place to store items like blankets, pillows, or other household items. They can also provide extra seating when needed.

6. Retractable Items

Consider items that can be folded or retracted when not in use. This includes retractable drying racks, fold-down desks, or pull-out ironing boards. They make the space versatile without causing permanent obstruction.

7. Corner Shelves

Corners often remain underutilised in apartments. By installing corner shelves, you can make the most of these spaces, which are perfect for books, decorative items, or even small indoor plants.

More smart storage ideas for apartment living

Those with tight spaces to play with sometimes come up with the most amazing and innovative storage ideas for apartment living.

Among the coolest solutions are:

• Innovative furniture that multi-tasks for storage.
• Hanging baskets suspended over a kitchen island bench.
• Recessed shelves that take advantage of wall cavity space.
• Peg boards for kitchen utensils
• Baskets that hook under existing shelves

Self storage for apartment living

Finally, many people think absolutely running out of space and reverting to a self storage solution is a last resort – but it shouldn’t be seen that way at all.

For instance, Jim’s Self Storage Williamstown has a range of storage unit sizes, and a small unit is extremely affordable and can therefore be regarded as a flexible extension of your day-to-day apartment storage.

Thinking outside the box and sharing a unit with a neighbour or friend is also an option, especially for those things that you really won’t miss all throughout the year. We’re talking seasonal storage of things like Christmas decorations, beach toys and winter clothing.

By keeping an open mind to clever apartment storage ideas and not seeing self storage as a last resort, you can reap the benefits of the growing popularity of living comfortably in smaller spaces. With competitive storage unit pricing, it can be an affordable way to declutter apartment living. Remember, when we’re storing stuff, it can be very easy to get stuck in the usual ‘horizontal storage’ mindset. But the most efficient apartment storage ideas are often not horizontal, but vertical.

After your house and perhaps your financial investments, the most valuable thing you own is probably your boat. But that’s ok, because all that fun, fishing, freedom, waterskiing and adventure comes at a cost. But those costs will be a lot higher over the long, medium and even short term if your boat isn’t safe, well-maintained, protected and reliable. Ongoing boat maintenance costs should be manageable, but it’s actually an area that can get out of hand for both boating newcomers and veteran captains alike.

Like what, you may be asking? Well, there’s no need to spend thousands on unnecessary upgrades, over-the-top aesthetics like high-end finishes, and replacing parts before they get anywhere near the end of their usable life. But how do you really know the difference between pointless and endlessly-expensive boat maintenance and the really important stuff?

Answer: Give our exclusive boat maintenance checklist a whirl.

To maximise your boat’s life, ensure a truly safe boating experience, and enhance your enjoyment on the water, make sure you can tick all of these off your boat maintenance checklist:

1. Regular cleaning

How often are you giving your pride and joy a decent hose and scrub? It’s critical to use fresh water and mild soap to prevent saltwater and dirt buildup – and corrosion and deterioration. Slightly less important is the interior, although keeping that in tip-top shape will prevent mould and mildew growth.

2. Engine maintenance

You get your car’s engine and other mechanical and electronic functions regularly checked – so why would it be different with your even more expensive boat? Things leak, come loose, corrode, deteriorate and fail, but you also need to be checking and changing the oil and filters – just like your car. Neglect this area and those repairs will end up a lot more expensive.

3. Propeller/outdrive care

Particular maintenance care must be paid to the propeller and outdrive, watching out, especially for damage, dents and debris and remembering to keep all moving parts well lubricated.

4. Proper boat storage

Are you leaving your boat exposed to the elements when it’s not out at sea? All that rain, hail, UV rays and temperature fluctuations greatly accelerate wear & tear, but even putting it under cover or in a garage can throw up ventilation and moisture issues that can lead to mould.

The very best thing you can do is consider specialised self storage for boats. Your vessel will not only be out of the elements, but in a meticulously controlled environment that’s behind lock and key, under constant security surveillance, and in a place out of your hair on a daily basis but easily accessed for a convenient launch whenever you fancy.

5. Hull inspection

The key to your boat’s structural integrity is the hull – which can crack, blister and get knocked and damaged. So check it often and get a professional check every now and then too, whilst also considering an antifouling paint layer to cut out marine growth like algae.

6. Safety gear inspection

Life at sea is fun – but risky. Your life can therefore be in the hands of your safety gear, like life jackets, fire extinguishers, and navigation/signalling/communication devices and equipment.

Jim will keep your boat maintenance costs down

Did you know Jim’s Self Storage has a dedicated, specialised, alarmed and CCTV-protected boat storage yard just minutes from the boat ramps at Williamstown and Altona? There are allocated boat spaces watched over constantly by the on-site resident manager – who knows an awful lot about safe and secure boat storage and the convenience that boat owners need.

Look after your pride and joy with our exclusive boat maintenance checklist! Here at Jim’s Self Storage, we’re your experts in boat maintenance Melbourne-wide – and there are usually a few dedicated boat spaces available in our Williamstown boat storage yard. Get in touch to find out more.

Having enough space to store all of your possessions can be a daily struggle. It can be all too easy to throw things into the garage with no sense of logic or order, which means that you really can’t find what your need when you need it, and that you aren’t maximising the space you have. But with these clever garage storage ideas you can make that headache a thing of the past.

We first published this post with 8 garage storage ideas, but why stop there! In this 2023 update Jim’s Self Storage gives you 4 new space saving garage storage solutions, so let’s get started…

Garage shelving

Considering that the garage is an often used placed for storage, it’s amazing how few people actually think to make the most of their garage storage by integrating shelves. Purchase some simple standalone flat pack shelving options, and you’ll never be lost for a place to put your garden shears or your kids’ old school drawings. You can get the plans for the shelving above if you want to DIY.

Sliding ceiling storage

Yes, your garage floor might be covered in junk, but there’s a good chance that your ceilings are bare and simply crying out for a storage solution. This is a great weekend project for a DIY enthusiast – just install some wooden beams and put some crates on wheels and you have an innovative garage storage solution.

Plus, the ceiling is a great place to store things like power tools outside of the reach of small children.

Innovative bike shelf

If you’re a keen cyclist, you’ll want to store your bike in a safe but handy place.

By installing a simple shelf on to the wall of your garage, you can rest the top bar of the bike frame on the shelf, leaving some room for things like your bike lock and water bottle.

Shovel rack storage

Garden tools are a hard one to store and it can be tempting to just throw them against the wall. But if you want to put items like rakes and hoes and shovels in order, you can create a simple shelf with grooves along its length, and you can very simply slide those tools into the groove, ready to use whenever you need them.

Wall tool holders

Organising the smaller tools you have such as spanners, screwdrivers, hammers, and small drills can be a real nightmare.

The simple garage storage solution is to throw them all in a toolbox, but the tools get mixed up and only the brave can delve to the bottom of such a container. Nailing smaller holders to the wall is a canny garage storage idea that makes all your tools visible.

Pegboard “Book” Tool Rack

Continuing with tool storage this neat little idea is the most space efficient yet accessible way to store your tools. Like pages in a book hinged racks store away your commonly used tools. Add handles to the ends to “turn the pages”.

Folding garage workbench

If you happen to be a keen DIY-er, a workbench is a great piece of kit to have in your garage. When it’s not in use, you can fold it away conveniently. Consider wall mounting but be sure it’s built strong to take the weight of power tools. The foldout workbench is another great space saving garage storage idea. With a built in tool rack and fold out legs the home handyman can quickly get to work without taking up a permanent area of precious floorspace.

Timber racks for the wall

And again, if you are handy with the power tools, you no doubt have some lumber laying around too. Instead of letting that take up valuable ground space in your garage, it’s a much better idea to mount wooden lumber racks to the wall. You could even make the project one of your weekend DIY activities.

Fishing rod storage

Anyone who likes to fish knows how important is to keep fishing rods in good condition, which is a difficult task if they are thrown into the garage.

This is a great opportunity to utilise garage ceiling storage. Drill holes in two wooden planks and set them parallel to each other on the ceiling so you can store your fishing poles out of harm’s way.

Storage rack for cables and ropes

Keep all unused cables and ropes out of the way. This will keep them in good condition, especially important for extension leads! Plus, you will never have to waste so much time untangling those cables again; a time you could have spent otherwise on other useful things.

Surfboard/Kayak hanger

Oversized objects like kayaks can take up a lot of space in your garage. So, slide it in or strap it up to the wall with this board hanger. However, just make sure to use a heavy-duty strap that’s specifically made for wall mounting purposes to keep your boards nice and steady!

More Garage Storage Ideas?

We hope these 12 garage storage solutions and space saving ideas from Jim’s Self Storage help you declutter and organise for a more usable garage. We’ll update this post again soon so please share your ideas with us! And after all is said and done, and you really do need some extra storage, you can always rent a Williamstown self storage unit for bulky items or things you don’t need to access often.

Winter: it’s cold. Very cold. And while it may not snow in suburban Melbourne it sure can feel like it! It can get you down, ramp up your already-expensive heating costs, give you a sniffle and make outdoor life a lot more difficult. And one outdoor activity that’s definitely more challenging is moving in winter.

The wind is gusty in winter – so it sounds like you need some brilliant moving in winter tips. Here’s why using a short-term self storage facility can make it little more than a gentle breeze:

1. The flexibility

The hint is in the description – short-term self storage. A great thing about these facilities is the flexible rental terms, allowing you to store your stuff essentially for only as long as you need – so you can plan for that winter move without a rush or pressure.

2. The climate control

Winter isn’t just hard on our bodies – it’s harsh for your more delicate and expensive items like electronics, artwork and furniture. Luckily, self storage units are typically very well climate-controlled, providing a stable, safe and predictable environment for your belongings even when the temperature is fluctuating wildly outside the door.

3. The extra space

Moving in winter is made a lot easier with a self storage facility – but even if you’re not moving, it can be a Godsend in any season when the mercury is plummeting. For instance, you may have skiing and snowboarding gear, Christmas decorations or all host of season-dependent stuff that you only need at home in winter – so why not put it in storage when it’s not cold?

4. The safety

Moving in winter is not only stressful – it can actually be dangerous. All that driving back and forth on slippery and potentially even icy roads, so why not temporarily store your possessions in self-storage and make that moving period just a little bit safer?

5. The easier packing

Packing up all your gear when it’s darker, wetter and colder can be seriously miserable. By using self-storage, you can complete the arduous process more gradually, and be confident that it’s all being safely stashed before you get the opportunity to unpack it all in your new home.

6. The easy access

With the best short term self-storage facilities, you can basically access all of your stored belongings at any hour of the day or night – which can be particularly convenient when the weather is awful, daylight is limited and your schedule is crammed.

7. The streamlined moving

Without self-storage, you’re going to either have to go back and forth from your existing home to the new one – or do it all in one challenging, weather-dependent hit! By using self-storage, you can gradually declutter your home long before moving day, storing non-essential items while you concentrate on the more important things.

8. The gap-bridging

Often, there is a gap between moving out of one home and into the next. Particularly in winter, it’s simple to bridge that gap with temporary self storage.

Jim’s makes moving in winter a breeze

Winter: the weather is terrible, the days (and tempers) are shorter, the roads are dark and slippery – and the list goes on. It’s easy to make the process of moving house in the colder months of every year with short-term self storage – especially if you use the amazing facility at Jim’s Self Storage. We have more than 900 individually-alarmed units of various sizes, 24/7 CCTV protection, security monitoring and a super-convenient location within a stone’s throw of pretty much everything – from Newport to Footscray, Seddon to Altona North and anywhere near Williamstown and beyond. So why not give our experienced team a call today to make winter moving a breeze?