Organizing Your Outdoor Space – Tips for Storing Seasonal Items

Self Storage


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October 14th, 2024


In Seaside, Oregon, our outdoor spaces are a big part of our lifestyle, especially in the summer. But as the seasons change, the need to store or manage outdoor furniture, equipment, and seasonal items becomes more important. How can you maximize your outdoor area throughout the year while keeping it organized?In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of strategies for storing outdoor items during the offseason, keeping your outdoor space clean and functional. Self storage is just one of the many solutions available, but there are other ways to make the most of your space as well.

Step 1: Declutter and Clean Your Outdoor Space

Before you start worrying about where to store things, it’s important to declutter your outdoor area. Get rid of anything that’s damaged, unused, or no longer needed.Here’s a simple process to get started:
  • Assess Your Furniture: Check your patio furniture for wear and tear. If something is broken beyond repair, it may be time to let it go.
  • Gather Seasonal Items: Round up everything that’s specific to warmer weather—beach chairs, umbrellas, pool equipment, and even sports gear.
  • Donate or Sell Unused Items: If you’ve upgraded your furniture or outdoor decor over the summer, consider donating or selling your old items to avoid unnecessary clutter.
Decluttering is the first step to making your outdoor space manageable as the colder months approach. A clean slate allows you to think creatively about how to store and protect your belongings for the winter.

Step 2: Protect and Store Outdoor Furniture

Once you’ve decluttered, focus on protecting the items you plan to keep. Seaside’s weather can be harsh during the fall and winter, so taking steps to protect your outdoor furniture and equipment is key.
  • Use Protective Covers: Invest in high-quality, weatherproof covers for your patio furniture. This can prevent damage from rain, wind, and salt air. Covers are a simple, inexpensive way to extend the life of your outdoor furniture without needing additional storage space.
  • Stack and Store: If you have stackable chairs or foldable tables, consider collapsing them to save space. Even if you don’t have an indoor storage area, stacking them neatly and covering them will reduce wear.
  • Create a Storage Corner: If your outdoor area is limited, dedicate one corner of your patio or backyard as a “storage zone.” Use waterproof storage boxes to keep cushions, pillows, and other smaller items safe.
These protective measures can keep your outdoor furniture in good condition until spring arrives, saving you from needing to replace it year after year.

Step 3: Organize Your Garden Tools and Equipment

Garden tools, lawnmowers, and other equipment are essential for maintaining a beautiful yard in Seaside, but finding a place to store these items during the off-season can be challenging.Consider these ideas:
  • Hang Tools on a Wall Rack: If you have a garage or shed, installing a wall-mounted rack for your garden tools can free up valuable floor space. It’s also an easy way to keep everything organized and accessible.
  • Store Lawn Equipment in a Shed: If you don’t already have one, a small storage shed can be a practical addition to your backyard. Not only will it house lawn equipment, but it can also store your outdoor cushions and garden supplies.
  • Use Shelving Units: If a shed isn’t an option, weather-resistant shelving units placed in a corner of your garage or carport can help keep garden tools and supplies organized.
By organizing your tools, you’ll be ready to dive back into yard work once spring rolls around—without spending hours searching for misplaced items.

Step 4: Consider Larger Storage Solutions for Bulkier Items

Some outdoor items, like kayaks, surfboards, and large patio sets, may require more substantial storage options during the offseason. If you find that you don’t have enough space at home, you may need to think about alternative solutions.
  • Garage Organization: If you’re fortunate enough to have a garage, consider investing in overhead storage racks or wall-mounted systems to maximize vertical space. Kayaks and bikes, for example, can be suspended from ceiling hooks, freeing up ground-level storage.
  • Storage Sheds: Larger, weatherproof storage sheds are an excellent option for storing outdoor equipment and even small vehicles like ATVs or motorcycles. These sheds provide dedicated space and protection without taking up valuable room in your home or garage.
  • Self Storage Units: If you have bulky items, like large patio furniture sets or outdoor equipment, self storage is a practical option. A drive-up storage unit allows for easy access, and the heated and dehumidified units available at Gearhart Storage are ideal for protecting items from the cold and moisture typical of Seaside winters.

Step 5: Seasonal Rotation and Planning Ahead

For items that you use seasonally, planning a rotation system can help keep your outdoor space tidy year-round.
  • Create a Seasonal Checklist: Make a list of items you’ll need to store when winter approaches and a separate list for springtime items. This keeps things organized and prevents you from scrambling to find space last minute.
  • Invest in Versatile Storage: Look for multi-functional storage options, such as deck boxes or outdoor benches with hidden storage. These can double as seating in the summer and storage in the winter.
By thinking ahead, you can reduce stress and maintain a more organized outdoor space no matter the season.

How Self Storage Can Help Without Cluttering Your Home

If you find that your outdoor space is at its limit, self storage can be a great way to offload seasonal items and bulky equipment without cluttering your home. While protecting and organizing your items at home should be the first step, there are times when additional storage is necessary. Gearhart Storage offers large units that can accommodate anything from patio sets to surfboards, and even provides specialized heated and dehumidified units to protect items during the cold and damp months. Whether you need a temporary spot for summer gear or a long-term solution for bulky items, self storage can be the key to keeping your outdoor space organized and clutter-free.

Organizing your outdoor space doesn’t have to be a headache. By decluttering, protecting your items, and planning ahead, you can make the most of your yard, patio, or garden year-round. For items that simply don’t fit at home, self storage offers a flexible solution without taking up valuable indoor space.For Seaside residents looking for reliable, secure storage options, Gearhart Storage provides heated, dehumidified units with 24/7 security monitoring and convenient drive-up access. By taking care of your outdoor items during the offseason, you’ll ensure they’re ready to go when the warm weather returns.