Storage Blog

Why College Students Need Self Storage: Declutter Dorm Life with Modern Storage®

Modern Storage

Dorm closets. Rotating wardrobes. Storage chaos. College students know that managing stuff in tight quarters is part of campus survival, and it’s not easy. In this episode of Modern Storage® Unpacked, we explore how one law student transformed her cluttered college life using a simple but powerful tool: a self-storage unit. If you’re a student juggling limited space, roommates, and seasonal chaos, this one’s for you. 🎓 Dorm Life vs. Real Life: The College Clutter Struggle From the outside, student life looks like classes, game days, and late-night study sessions. But behind the dorm door? It’s a war zone of overstuffed closets, storage bins, and makeshift shelving. Our guest this week shared her real-life dorm setup: three students. One closet. No room for anything. “We had one closet and way too much stuff. My car became my third closet.” Sound familiar? Whether you're in a dorm, apartment, or sorority house, space is tight, and it doesn’t take long for clutter to spiral. Common Student Storage Challenges Most college students face more than just a lack of closet space. Here's what we’re really seeing (and storing) at Modern Storage®: Seasonal wardrobes with no place to go Holiday décor, school keepsakes, and pageant crowns (yes, really!) Textbooks and class notes that don’t fit anywhere Sentimental items you don’t want to toss Packing your car like a storage unit just to get through the semester One student even found her sunglasses stored inside a box of Captain Crunch. Chaos, confirmed. How a Storage Unit Can Simplify Student Life Renting a small self-storage unit near campus was a game-changer for our guest, and it can be for you too. Benefits of student self storage at Modern Storage®: ✅ Store seasonal clothing, sports gear, and dorm décor ✅ Keep academic materials organized and accessible ✅ Avoid moving everything home over breaks ✅ Create more breathing room (literally and mentally) ✅ Protect irreplaceable keepsakes in a clean, climate-controlled environment “Clutter in my dorm became clutter in my brain. My storage unit gave me space to think.” Stress-Free Move-In & Move-Out Days Let’s be honest: moving days in ...

Modern Storage
June 3rd, 2025

The Kiosk Catastrophe: Why Self Storage Still Needs Real People

Self Storage

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet.In a world obsessed with automation, it's tempting to hand over everything to machines even your storage unit. But before you fall for the sleek pitch of 24/7 self-service kiosks, let’s unpack why real humans still matter in the self storage business. What Is a Storage Kiosk, Anyway? Self-storage kiosks are like ATM machines for renting storage. You walk up, punch in your info, swipe your card, and boom — you’ve got a unit. No small talk, no waiting in line, no human contact. Sounds easy, right? Sure, they’re convenient. You can rent a unit at 3 a.m. without a soul in sight. You’ll save the company some labor costs, and in theory, the process is faster. But here’s the thing… When Convenience Becomes a Catastrophe Kiosks are great for routine transactions. But what about the not-so-routine moments? Locked out at 3 a.m.? The kiosk won’t console your frustration. Gate code not working? Good luck debugging it with a screen. Lost ID or sketchy activity? A machine can’t smell a scam. Let’s be blunt: A kiosk isn’t calling 911. It’s not spotting suspicious activity. And it sure as heck isn’t helping your grandmother who doesn’t even text figure out how to rent a unit. Security Risks of Kiosk-Only Storage Facilities going kiosk-only are rolling the dice on safety. No staff means: No one to monitor who’s coming and going. No verification of IDs beyond what a machine can do (which isn’t much). No response to emergencies — break-ins, vandalism, or worse. These aren't hypotheticals. Across the industry, break-ins at unmanned facilities are making headlines, and tenants are discovering months later that their items are long gone. Customer Service Isn’t Dead (Yet) Ask anyone who's walked into a fully automated facility after visiting five others with locked doors: A smile goes a long way. Human staff can: Help renters pick the right unit size. Troubleshoot tech issues on the spot. Provide peace of mind and actual service. Modern Storage® hears this often — customers are relieved to see a real face, a real office, and someone ...

Modern Storage®
May 14th, 2025

Modern Storage® Becomes the Top Self Storage Brand on TikTok

Self Storage

Modern Storage® Becomes the Most Liked Self Storage Brand on TikTok May 2025 – Modern Storage® has officially become the most-liked self storage brand on TikTok, surpassing 320,000 likes as of May 9, 2025. The TikTok account @modernstorage now leads the storage industry in total likes, outperforming national competitors. With over 13,000 followers and a fast-growing video library, Modern Storage® has built an engaged audience through creative, authentic content. What’s Driving Engagement? Modern Storage®'s content strategy includes: Storage tips and how-to guides Facility transformations and visual upgrades Entertaining day-in-the-life content from team members Clips from the original podcast series, Modern Storage® Unpacked This mix of educational and entertaining content has helped the brand stand out in an industry often seen as traditional or transactional. Why TikTok Matters in Self Storage TikTok has evolved into a dominant platform for reaching consumers—especially for service industries like self storage. With over 1 billion monthly users, it offers unmatched reach and real-time engagement. Modern Storage® uses TikTok to: Educate renters about the storage process Showcase customer stories and facility upgrades Build trust through transparency and humor Highlight innovation and expansion efforts A Milestone in Modern Marketing Becoming the most-liked self storage brand on TikTok marks a shift in how consumers interact with brands. It’s no longer just about square footage or price—it’s about brand voice, visibility, and connection. Modern Storage® continues to grow both online and offline, with new locations in development and an ongoing commitment to modernizing the storage experience. Follow Modern Storage® on TikTok 👉 @modernstorage Tiktok Blog ...

Modern Storage®
May 9th, 2025

PROTECTING VALUABLES IN STORAGE: WHAT BELONGS IN CLIMATE-CONTROLLED UNITS?

When it comes to protecting your most valuable or sentimental items, not all storage is created equal. While standard units work for many belongings, certain items need extra care. Temperature fluctuations, humidity, and moisture can cause irreversible damage. That’s why Modern Storage® offers climate-controlled units designed to provide added protection for what matters most. Not sure what should go in a climate-controlled space? Here’s a quick guide: 1. Electronics Extreme heat, cold, and moisture can severely damage electronics. Items like TVs, computers, gaming systems, and audio gear contain sensitive internal components that can corrode or malfunction if not properly stored. Modern Storage® climate-controlled units help keep your tech safe and functional for when you need it again. 2. Important Documents & Photos Paper is highly vulnerable to its environment. Humidity can cause mold, while heat leads to yellowing and brittleness. Whether it’s tax records, legal documents, medical files, or cherished family photos, storing them in a climate-controlled unit helps ensure they remain legible and intact for years to come. 3. Furniture Wood, leather, and fabric furniture are especially sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Wood can warp or crack, leather can dry out or mold, and fabric can harbor mildew. A stable climate helps preserve both the appearance and structure of your furnishings. 4. Collectibles & Antiques From vintage vinyl records to rare coins, comic books, and fine art—collectibles often carry significant sentimental or monetary value. Many of these items are made from materials like paper, metal, or paint, which are easily affected by moisture and temperature shifts. Climate-controlled storage helps prevent fading, rust, and other long-term damage. The Bottom Line If you’re storing anything sensitive to temperature or humidity especially valuables or irreplaceable keepsakes climate-controlled storage is your best option. At Modern Storage®, we make it easy to protect your items with secure, clean, and stable storage solutions. Need help choosing the right unit? Visit a Modern Storage® location or contact our team today. We’ll help you find the perfect ...

Modern Storage Springdale
May 7th, 2025

RV & BOAT STORAGE: GET READY FOR SUMMER ADVENTURES

Vehicle Storage

Summer is right around the corner, and for RV and boat owners, that means it’s time to hit the road or water for unforgettable getaways. But before your next adventure begins, ensuring your vehicle is properly stored and prepared is essential. That’s where Modern Storage® comes in—a secure, convenient solution to keep your RV or boat in top condition during the off-season. Why Choose Modern Storage® for RVs and Boats Modern Storage® offers premium features that protect your investment and simplify storage: Weather Protection: Avoid damage from snow, rain, or heat with covered or climate-controlled storage. Space-Saving Convenience: Free up your driveway or yard while keeping your property clean and clutter-free. Top-Tier Security: All our locations offer gated access, 24/7 surveillance, and on-site staff for peace of mind. Long-Term Vehicle Care: Reduce wear and tear with proper storage so your RV or boat is always ready for the next trip. How to Prep Your RV or Boat for Summer After months in storage, a little maintenance goes a long way in getting your vehicle adventure-ready. For RVs: Inspect the Exterior and Tires Check for rust or cracks. Inflate tires and replace any showing signs of wear. Clean the Interior Remove covers, air it out, and clean all surfaces. Look for signs of pests or mildew. Test Systems Start the engine, check the brakes, run the HVAC, and refill propane tanks. Restock Essentials Load up on food, water, first-aid supplies, and safety equipment. For Boats: Inspect the Hull and Engine Clean off algae or buildup, test the engine, and replace fluids if needed. Check Safety Gear Verify that life jackets, flares, and extinguishers are current and functional. Deep Clean Wash all surfaces and remove expired or unnecessary items. Test Electronics Make sure radios, navigation tools, and lights are all working properly. Ready for Summer? So Are We. With Modern Storage®, you get more than ...

Modern Storage Bentonville
April 30th, 2025

HOW TO ORGANIZE A STORAGE UNIT FOR MAXIMUM SPACE EFFICIENCY

Self Storage

Whether you’re decluttering your home, storing seasonal items, or simply need extra room, organizing a storage unit efficiently is key to making the most of every square foot. With a bit of planning and strategic organization, you can fit more into your unit, quickly find what you need, and keep everything safe and in good condition. Here’s your ultimate guide to maximizing your storage space—complete with essential tips on shelving, stacking, and keeping things accessible. 1. Start with a Clean Slate Before diving into the organizing process, make sure your storage unit is clean and ready. Sweep the floors, check for moisture, and remove any debris. A clean environment protects your belongings and makes the setup process smoother. 2. Sort and Categorize Your Items Before you start moving things in, group items by category: furniture, seasonal décor, boxes, clothing, and so on. This makes it easier to locate things later. Label each box clearly with both contents and a usage note (e.g., “Holiday Decorations – Do Not Open Until December”). This saves time and prevents unnecessary digging. 3. Use Shelving to Maximize Vertical Space Take full advantage of your unit’s height by adding shelves. Durable metal or plastic shelving units keep boxes and small items off the floor and within reach. Keep heavier items on lower shelves and adjust shelving heights to accommodate things like appliances or bins. Shelving helps create a mini-warehouse setup especially helpful in climate-controlled Modern Storage® units. 4. Stack Items Strategically If shelving isn't an option, stack with intention. Heaviest items on the bottom: This ensures stability and protects fragile items. Group by box size: Uniform stacks use space efficiently and make it easier to maneuver inside the unit. Leave airflow gaps: A little space between stacks prevents shifting and helps with ventilation. 5. Use Clear Bins or Consistent Labeling Clear plastic bins make it easy to identify contents at a glance. If using cardboard boxes, large, legible labels are a must. Include both a general description and a short list of key items inside. Bonus tip: Create a ...

Modern Storage Maumelle
April 23rd, 2025

SPRING CLEANING FOR SMALL BUSINESSES: HOW TO DECLUTTER AND MAXIMIZE EFFICIENCY WITH STORAGE UNITS

Storage Solutions

Spring is the season of fresh starts—and that goes beyond just your home. As the weather warms up and the urge to organize kicks in, it’s the perfect time for small businesses to reset, refocus, and clear out clutter. If your office is crowded with outdated files, unused equipment, or off-season inventory, self-storage with Modern Storage® can be a game-changer. Whether you run a retail shop, creative studio, or service-based company, self-storage offers a flexible, affordable solution that supports productivity and growth. Here’s how: 1. Declutter Your Workspace to Boost Productivity A cluttered office can lead to a cluttered mind. If you're surrounded by old paperwork, extra furniture, or equipment you rarely use, it might be time to move some of it out. With self-storage, you can: Free up desks, meeting rooms, and common areas Create a cleaner, more professional space for clients and staff Encourage focus, creativity, and better workflow Tip: Store archived documents, display materials, spare electronics, or extra seating in clearly labeled bins for easy access later. 2. Store Seasonal Inventory with Ease Businesses with seasonal products—like holiday items, promotional materials, or uniforms—can benefit big from off-site storage. Here’s how storage helps: Keep only current inventory on-site for a cleaner setup Avoid overstuffed backrooms or crowded showrooms Easily scale up or down as your inventory changes Pro Tip: Opt for a climate-controlled unit if you’re storing sensitive items like textiles, electronics, or paper goods. 3. Save Money and Maximize Efficiency Commercial space is expensive. Why pay top dollar for extra square footage when a Modern Storage® unit can give you the room you need for a fraction of the cost? Use your unit to: Create a mini-warehouse for orders, supplies, or tools Support mobile teams like event planners or service technicians Store promotional items, displays, or samples off-site Let Modern Storage® Help Your Business Grow Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about making room for what’s next. By using Modern Storage®, small businesses can improve organization, streamline operations, and create space to thrive. Whether you’re preparing for your busy season, onboarding ...

Modern Storage North Little Rock
April 16th, 2025

Choosing the Perfect Storage Unit Size: A Comprehensive Guide

Self Storage

Choosing the right storage unit size is more than just a guessing game—it's a decision that can impact your wallet and your peace of mind. Renting too much space means paying for square footage you don’t use. Too little, and you’re playing Tetris with your belongings. Let’s break down how to choose the perfect unit size for your needs and maximize every inch of space. Understanding Storage Unit Sizes: What Fits Where? When it comes to self-storage, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Here's a quick guide to common unit sizes and what they can hold: 5x5 (25 sq. ft.) – Think of this as a walk-in closet. It’s great for boxes, seasonal decor, or small furniture like lamps and chairs. 5x10 (50 sq. ft.) – This size fits a sofa, mattress set, dresser, and several boxes. Ideal for a small studio or dorm room contents. 10x10 (100 sq. ft.) – About half the size of a standard garage, this can handle the contents of a one-bedroom apartment. 10x20 (200 sq. ft.) – Planning to store items from a multi-bedroom house? This unit size is spacious enough for large furniture, appliances, and many boxes. 💡 Pro Tip: Not sure how much space you’ll need? Use our storage size guide calculator to get a personalized recommendation in minutes. How to Assess Your Storage Needs Like a Pro Before renting a unit, take inventory of everything you plan to store. Here's how: Make a List – Go room by room and jot down items. Don’t forget oddly shaped items like bikes or patio furniture. Measure Large Items – Sofas, bed frames, and dining tables can eat up more space than expected. Use a Storage Checklist – This helps prevent last-minute surprises and overpacking. Space-Saving Tips: Maximize Every Inch A well-organized storage unit can hold more than you think. Try these tricks: Use Shelving – Going vertical is your friend. Shelves help you stack bins and boxes neatly. Disassemble Furniture – Take apart bed frames, tables, and shelving units when possible. Label Everything – Clear labeling helps you find what ...

Modern Storage®
April 15th, 2025

SPRING CLOSET SWAP: HOW TO STORE WINTER CLOTHES THE RIGHT WAY

Self Storage

As the spring sunshine melts away the last traces of winter, it’s time for one of the season’s most satisfying rituals: the closet swap. Storing heavy coats, chunky sweaters, and wool accessories properly not only frees up space for your spring wardrobe—it also helps extend the life of your winter wear. At Modern Storage®, we’re here to help you store smarter. Follow these expert tips to store your winter clothing efficiently and protect it until next season. 1. Clean Before You Store Always wash or dry-clean winter garments before packing them away. Dirt, oil, and even minor stains can set over time or attract pests. Ensure every item is completely dry to prevent mold and mildew during storage. 2. Sort and Declutter Use this seasonal reset to assess what you actually wore. If something stayed in the back of your closet all winter, consider donating it. Keeping only the essentials means less clutter and more efficient storage. 3. Use the Right Storage Bins Clear plastic bins with tight-sealing lids are your best bet for protecting winter clothes from dust and moisture. Line the bottom with acid-free tissue paper to safeguard delicate fabrics. 4. Vacuum-Seal Bulky Items Vacuum-sealed bags are great for space-saving when it comes to puffy coats, down jackets, and comforters. Just ensure the items are clean and dry—and skip sealing natural fibers like wool and leather, which need airflow. 5. Label Everything A simple label like “Winter Sweaters” or “Cold-Weather Accessories” will save you time when the temperature drops again. You’ll know exactly where everything is without digging through multiple bins. 6. Invest in Climate-Controlled Storage Arkansas summers can be brutally hot and humid—conditions that can quickly damage winter fabrics stored in garages or attics. Modern Storage® offers climate-controlled units that maintain a stable temperature year-round, protecting your wardrobe from extreme heat, pests, and moisture. 7. Store with Intention Stack heavier bins on the bottom and keep seasonally flexible or frequently used items easily accessible. Consider adding shelving in your storage unit to keep things ...

Modern Storage West Little Rock
April 9th, 2025

PREPPING FOR A SUMMER MOVE: HOW TO USE SELF-STORAGE FOR A STRESS-FREE TRANSITION

Moving

Summer is a popular time for moving—longer days, warmer weather, and school breaks make it ideal. However, the heat, tight schedules, and sheer volume of belongings can make the process overwhelming. Fortunately, self-storage can help you stay organized and reduce stress. Here’s how to use self-storage to make your summer move seamless. 1. Declutter Before You Pack Before you start boxing everything up, take time to sort through your belongings. Set aside items you don’t use daily—seasonal décor, extra furniture, or rarely worn clothes—and store them in a self-storage unit. This keeps them safe and out of the way, reducing packing chaos and making your move more manageable. 2. Protect Belongings from Summer Heat High temperatures can damage sensitive items like electronics, wooden furniture, and artwork. To prevent warping, cracking, or fading, opt for a climate-controlled storage unit. Store fragile belongings early so they remain in pristine condition until you’re ready to unpack. 3. Stage Your Move Gradually Avoid the last-minute rush by moving in stages. Pack and store non-essential items, such as summer sports gear, patio furniture, or extra kitchen appliances, well in advance. This frees up space in your home, making it easier to clean, stage for sale, or simply stay organized as moving day approaches. 4. Simplify Moving Day Logistics Use self-storage as a temporary hub to keep your moving day efficient. If your new place isn’t ready or you’re downsizing, store bulky furniture and extra boxes instead of juggling them between locations. This reduces clutter and allows you to focus on settling in. 5. Stay Flexible with Short-Term Storage Moving often comes with unexpected delays. A self-storage unit provides a flexible solution if closing dates change, leases overlap, or renovations take longer than planned. With month-to-month rentals at Modern Storage, you can keep your belongings secure without a long-term commitment. 6. Pack Smart for Storage Maximize space by using sturdy boxes, labeling everything clearly, and stacking strategically. Store summer-specific gear like beach chairs or pool toys ...

Modern Storage Shackleford
March 27th, 2025