Four tips for making the most of basement storage

It’s a common problem – too much stuff, not enough storage space. For many people the solution lies in utilizing the basement, but with great storage space comes great responsibility. Basements are usually wide open spaces and seem like the obvious solution to the question of where to store all that excess stuff you don’t want laying around the house. Unfortunately, many basements are also damp, and prone to bugs, rodents, and flooding. This being the case, it’s important to store things properly, otherwise when you go and try to retrieve your treasured possessions, you might just find them ruined. Follow these five simple steps though, and even the dampest basement won’t be able to defeat you.

1)      Choose plastic over cardboard. Cardboard boxes are cheap and easy to find, and if we’re being honest, you probably already have some sitting around in the corner of your basement. It’d be so easy to just grab some and put your winter sweaters in there, but it’s a temptation that must be resisted. Even if you don’t think you have pests who might chew through and hurt your belongings, cardboard does next to nothing to keep out dampness and water. Plastic bins with sealing tops are the best at this, but when using them, make sure all your items are clean and dry before sealing them inside – there’s no point in locking the moisture right in with them.

2)      Never store things directly on the floor. Much of the dampness so common in basements comes up from the ground and through the floor, so if you don’t have much to work with, even a plastic sheet can help protect your storage. If you have them, pallets are great for giving your possessions some distance between themselves and the floor, and many stores will actually give them away for free when finished with them. If you can’t get any, you can always build makeshift shelves out of cinder blocks and scrap wood. It might not be pretty, but it will get the job done.

3)      Save the packets of silica gel that come in everyday items like shoe boxes and put a few packets in each box. This will help reduce the moisture level even further. If you forget to save them, put a handful of rice into a sock, and add it to your box. It won’t work quite as well, but it will have a similar effect.

4)      If your basement is noticeably damp, consider buying a dehumidifier. They come in multiple sizes, and for minimal price they can make a huge difference in keeping your stored belongings dry and free of mold.

If your basement is too small or so wet that even a dehumidifier won’t help, keep in mind that Bannister Moving & Storage offers great deals on both long term and short term storage solutions. We use a 10,000 square foot facility that is gated, climate controlled, and utilizes a state of the art fire and theft protection system. For more information on our rates, call us today at 602-942-1166.

Cleaning Tips for Moving Out

If you’re a renter, then you most likely will have to prepare for a move-out inspection in order to get your full deposit back. Here are a few tips on making sure you don’t miss a thing so that you aren’t charged any damage fees after moving out.

• Remove all staples and nails you have in the walls, ceiling or doors.
• Use a magic eraser all-purpose scrubber to remove any scuff marks on walls, floors, doors, etc.
• Remove all the shelves and drawers from your refrigerator and freezer, and place them in the dishwasher, then wipe down the interior.
• Use oven cleaner to remove any baked on food that may be in the bottom or sides of your oven. Make sure to keep your windows open for this!
• Use a multi-purpose cleaner to wipe down interior and exterior of cabinets.
• Check light fixtures for bugs or built-up dust.
• Clean out all of the sinks with either multi-purpose cleaner or powdered cleaner, depending on whether it’s stainless steel or porcelain. Be sure to scrub around the edges where build-up lurks.
• Thoroughly clean the tub and toilet with a safe, powder bathroom cleaner.
• Wipe down any closet shelves and built-in mirrors.
• If you have any carpet stains, treat them with a spot-treatment spray and a vacuum.
• Use oil soap to clean wooden floors.
• Clean all windows, window ledges and blinds thoroughly.
• Take pictures of the apartment and keep for your records in the event that your landlord or apartment complex accuses you of damaging the place.

If you’re getting ready to move soon, let the moving professionals at Bannister Moving & Storage help you! Call us today to book your move at 602-942-1166.

How to Prepare Your Mattress for a Move

For many people, there is no greater signifier of home than your own bed. That’s why it’s so important to protect your mattress during your move. No one wants to sleep on a dirty, stained, or torn mattress, so take the following steps to ensure your mattress gets to your next home safe and sound.

• Strip all linens and mattress pad from the bed.
• Lift mattress off the box spring and lean it against a wall.
• Slip a mattress bag over one side of the mattress, having one person hold onto the bag, while the other person lifts the mattress slightly and slides it into the bag.
• Secure the mattress bag with packing tape for added protection.
• Place the mattress in a mattress box and secure with packing tape.
• Make sure not to apply tape directly to the mattress.

If you’re planning on moving soon, having a little help can make a big difference! Call Bannister Moving & Storage today to learn more about our rates at 602-942-1166.

Out-Of-State Moving Checklist

Moving out of state can be an especially stressful experience. Tying up loose ends where you currently live, making sure everything is set up for your arrival in your new home, etc. The best way to make your out-of-state move as stress-free as possible is to keep things organized and make a list of everything that needs to be done prior to your move. While you might need to add a few things, this checklist a great starting off point to ensure your out-of-state move goes smoothly.

Before the Move

ü  Find a reputable out-of-state moving company that offers a free estimate.

ü  Begin making a list of all the accounts and subscriptions that will require an address update.

ü  Cancel or transfer any utilities or services if needed.

ü  Be sure to receive copies of your medical history paperwork, or have this paperwork sent to your new doctor’s office.

ü  Have your car tuned up and a thorough road safety test performed. Let the mechanic know you are moving out of state so that your tires can be checked and rotated appropriately.

ü  Make an emergency car kit in the event of a breakdown, complete with flares, jumper cables, a jug or water and some snacks. Also, be sure to replace your spare tire if it’s more than 6 to 10 years old or has been stored in extremely hot conditions.

ü  If you have pets, make sure they are up-to-date on their required vaccinations and get copies of their health records to take to their next vet.

ü  Double-check with movers when they are scheduled to arrive at your home. Be sure to load anything essential that you will need in your car, such as toiletries, medications, basic cooking equipment and utensils, etc.

If you’re planning an out-of-state move, let the experienced and professional movers at Bannister Moving & Storage help you lighten your load. Not only will we help you get all your belongings safely and securely moved to your new location, we can even help you pack! For more information on our rates and services, call us today at 602-942-1166.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Moving Company

Relocating from one residence to another is a process that often involves more strength and physical labor than most people realize. While it is more expensive to hire professional movers, the benefits tend to outweigh the costs. Consider some of the following factors before you decide to move yourself:

• Professional movers have experience and skill in handling heavy and fragile items.
• Professional movers can get the job done in just a few hours, whereas it will likely take you an entire day.
• A professional moving company has a better understanding of how to efficiently pack your items and your truck in order to fit as much as possible in the truck and keep your items safe while the truck is in motion.
• No need to call friends to help you for a long day of moving.
• You don’t have to worry about pulled muscles, achy backs, or emotional meltdowns that can often occur while moving.

Many people hire professional movers when they can’t get the job done quickly enough or if they have health concerns. For example, elderly people or people with medical concerns should consider hiring movers in order to ensure their safety and the safety of their items.

Professional movers are trained to deal with a variety of situations that may arise during the course of your moving day, and have the experience in operating any equipment needed to get the job done quickly and efficiently. If you don’t feel comfortable with the physical, operational, or time demands that are required by your move, don’t hesitate to hire a professional moving company.

Bannister Moving & Storage has a long history of experience in helping individuals, families and businesses move their belongings quickly, efficiently and cost-effectively, locally and long-distance. Check out our website for a full list of rates on our services and contact us today at 602-942-1166.