How to Organize Your Storage Unit Like a Pro in Helena, MT

Staying organized in a self-storage unit isn’t always a walk in the park—especially if you’re juggling a busy Helena, MT lifestyle. With changing seasons and an endless list of hobbies, it’s easy for boxes to pile up. The good news? A little planning can turn your storage unit from a cluttered cave into an organizational oasis. Here are some tried-and-true tips from A-Storage to help you make the most of your space.

1. Visualize Your Layout

Before you haul everything in, imagine how you’ll set up your unit. Heavier items (like couches or appliances) go against the walls or at the back, while you keep a clear walkway through the middle. It may feel like you’re sacrificing space, but you’ll love being able to reach your winter coats without performing a gymnastics routine.

2. Label Like a Legend

There’s nothing quite like opening a mystery box only to find everything but what you’re looking for. Avoid the “Box of Doom” by labeling clearly: use color-coded stickers or permanent markers to list the contents (e.g., “Summer Clothes,” “Kitchen Gadgets,” “Holiday Décor”). Trust us—your future self will thank you.

3. Shelf It or Bin It

Free-standing shelves work wonders for maximizing vertical space, perfect for storing labeled containers. Clear plastic bins let you see exactly what’s inside (a major perk when you’re racing to grab snow boots during a Helena cold snap). Keeping belongings off the floor also helps protect them from dust and potential moisture.

4. Prioritize Easy Access

Think about what you’ll need first—like that s’mores kit for a spontaneous weekend at Lake Helena—and place it near the front. Items you use less often can hang out in the back without causing chaos every time you swing by.

5. Maintain a Master List

Whether you prefer an app or old-school notepad, record what’s in each bin and where it’s located. This simple step can save you from frantically rummaging for the one item you forgot to label (looking at you, holiday lights).

By following these steps, you’ll transform your unit into a functional space where you can quickly find what you need. If you’re scouting for a clean, secure place to store your stuff in Helena, MT, A-Storage is here to help. From climate-controlled units to friendly staff, we’ve got everything you need for a hassle-free storage experience.

How to Store Christmas Decorations Safely

When the festive season ends in Helena, Montana, many of us find ourselves packing up our Christmas trees, ornaments, and lights in a hurry—only to discover broken bulbs and tangled strands next year. Given the often-frigid winters and low humidity in Big Sky Country, storing your Christmas décor properly is especially important. Plus, if your home or garage is short on space, a local storage facility like A-Storage can help keep your festive treasures safe and secure until you’re ready to deck the halls again.

1. Sort and Declutter

Before anything goes into a box, sort through your Christmas décor. We all have those strands of burned-out lights or ornaments that have lost their sparkle. Decide what’s worth keeping and what can be donated or recycled. This step not only frees up space in your home, but also saves you time and money when packing—and it means you won’t have to rummage through piles of unused décor next Christmas.

2. Wrap Delicate Items Carefully

Winter in Montana can be harsh, with temperature fluctuations that might stress fragile items in an unprotected environment. Wrapping each ornament in tissue paper, bubble wrap, or even acid-free packing paper helps prevent chips and cracks. For heirloom or sentimental pieces, look for specialized storage containers with individual compartments that keep them cushioned and secure, whether they stay at home or in a climate-controlled unit at A-Storage.

3. Coil and Label Lights

Tangled strands of lights can easily become damaged, especially in Helena’s dry winter air. To avoid the frustration of knotted or broken wires, wrap each strand around a piece of cardboard or an empty wrapping paper tube. Use twist ties or rubber bands to keep them in place. Label each coil—e.g., “tree lights” or “outdoor porch”—so you’ll know exactly where they go when you’re ready to decorate next year.

4. Label and Color-Code Bins

Whether you’re storing your décor at home or bringing it to A-Storage, proper labeling is key. Invest in clear plastic bins or sturdy boxes and mark each one clearly: “Red & Green Ornaments,” “Nativity Set,” “Stockings,” etc. You can even color-code your storage bins—red and green for Christmas, pastel tones for Easter—to quickly spot what you need when the season arrives.

5. Consider Climate-Controlled Storage

Temperature and humidity in Montana can swing dramatically from one season to the next. Fabrics, wooden ornaments, or delicate glass pieces may crack or mildew if left in attics or sheds with no climate control. A-Storage offers climate-controlled units that maintain more stable temperature and humidity levels, protecting your Christmas treasures from mold, mildew, and moisture damage.

6. Stay Organized Year-Round

Finally, when it comes time to tuck your decorations away, be mindful of how you store and stack your boxes. Put heavier items at the bottom and keep fragile items on top. Make sure you leave a path for easy access in your storage unit. Should you need something mid-year—maybe a few strands of lights for a summer party—you won’t have to pull everything out to find it.

With a little extra care and some smart packing strategies, you can keep your Christmas décor in tip-top shape for next year and beyond. If you’re searching for a trusted local facility to store your holiday cheer, A-Storage in Helena, MT, is here to help you safeguard your cherished decorations year-round.

January Moving Guide: Why Storage Units Are Essential in Helena, MT

A serene winter scene at a storage facility in Helena, Montana. Single-story gray storage units are surrounded by snow, with snow-capped mountains and pine trees in the background. The peaceful atmosphere highlights the tranquility of the season.

Introduction:
Moving during the winter in Helena, MT, can be a daunting task. From icy roads to unpredictable snowstorms, January relocations require careful planning and reliable resources. One of the best tools to make your move easier is a storage unit. At A-Storage of Montana, we’re here to help Helena residents navigate their winter moves with secure, flexible storage solutions.

Why Move in January?
While moving in the winter might not seem ideal, January often presents unique advantages:

  • Lower Moving Costs: Winter is an off-peak season for movers, meaning you could save money on professional moving services.
  • Flexible Schedules: Movers and storage facilities like A-Storage of Montana are less busy, giving you greater flexibility to choose dates that work best for you.

However, it’s important to prepare for the challenges winter moves can bring, especially in Montana’s cold climate.

Challenges of Moving in Winter:

  • Snow and Ice: Icy roads and snowy driveways can create transportation delays and hazards. Make sure to clear pathways for easy access to your home and storage unit.
  • Fragile Items: Freezing temperatures can damage sensitive belongings, such as electronics, wood furniture, and artwork, if not properly protected.
  • Unpredictable Weather: In Helena, January often brings sub-freezing temperatures and sudden storms, making it essential to have a backup plan in case of delays.

How Storage Units Help with Winter Moves:

  1. Temporary Storage for Delayed Moves:
    Winter storms in Helena can disrupt even the most carefully planned moves. A storage unit at A-Storage of Montana provides a safe place to store your belongings if your move is delayed or your new home isn’t ready on time.
  2. Protect Belongings from Harsh Weather:
    Our climate-controlled storage units are perfect for protecting sensitive items like electronics, musical instruments, and antiques from freezing temperatures and humidity.
  3. Convenient Access:
    With easy, all-weather access to our units, you can load and unload your belongings at your convenience—even during a snowy Montana day.
  4. Downsizing and Organization:
    If you’re downsizing or trying to de-clutter during your move, a storage unit can hold excess furniture and boxes until you’re ready to sort through them.

Local Moving Tips for Helena Residents:

  • Stay Weather-Aware: Regularly check weather updates through the National Weather Service for Helena to plan your moving days around storms.
  • Pack Smart for Winter: Use heavy-duty, weatherproof plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes to protect your items from moisture.
  • Protect Your Floors: Snow and mud can quickly damage flooring during a winter move. Lay down old blankets, rugs, or plastic sheets to keep your home clean.
  • Hire Local Help: Helena-based moving companies are experienced with Montana’s winter conditions. Pairing them with a storage unit from A-Storage of Montana ensures a smooth transition.

Why Choose A-Storage of Montana for Your Winter Move?

At A-Storage of Montana, we understand the unique challenges of moving during the winter. Here’s why Helena residents trust us for their storage needs:

  • Climate-Controlled Units: Perfect for protecting your valuables from Helena’s sub-zero temperatures.
  • Flexible Leasing Options: Whether you need short-term storage for a few weeks or a longer-term solution, we offer month-to-month leases to fit your schedule.
  • Secure Facility: Our 24/7 surveillance and gated access ensure your belongings stay safe, no matter the weather.
  • Convenient Location: Located in Helena, our facility is easily accessible from major roads, making loading and unloading hassle-free—even during Montana’s snowy season.

Final Thoughts:
Moving in January doesn’t have to be stressful. With proper planning and the right storage partner, you can protect your belongings and simplify the process. At A-Storage of Montana, we’re here to support you every step of the way with secure, flexible storage solutions designed to meet your needs.

Ready to reserve your unit? Contact us today to learn more or stop by our facility to see how we can make your winter move easier!

How to Safely Store Your Animal Mounts

Hunting season is quickly approaching, and it’s time to ask yourself if you have room for new taxidermy trophies. What if you already have too many to fit on the walls of your house? There is a solution: You can store these mounts in a safe and pest-free way. Just follow these steps to keep them stored in pristine condition even when they’re packed away.

  • Store Taxidermy Indoors 

Leaving your taxidermy mounts outdoors can leave them exposed to sunlight and dangerous UV rays, which may cause fading to the fur or skin.   They may even be invaded by insects if they’re not properly insulated.  Remember that  an attic or basement may not have enough space to store all of your trophies.  And if they do, your trophies still may end up in direct sunlight from windows. Keep them protected, and therefore the best place to do that is at a secure, safe, clean storage facility.

  • Buy or Create Wooden Crates

The best way to prevent scratches and harm as you transport taxidermy is to store it in a wooden crate.  You’ll be able to screw the mount to at least one side of the crate using wood screws and carrying it that way.  You can build your own crates, or ask a local taxidermist or tannery for one.

  • Wear Gloves

Not all specimens are dangerous to touch.  Most taxidermy done these days is maintained with a dry preservative or tanning method, so that they can be handled even while not wearing gloves.  However, some mounts will contain toxic materials, therefore you’ll have to use caution.  It’s best to simply wear gloves in all instances.

  • Protect Them From Pests

Place poison pellets, Not pest strips, and silica gel packets within the crate(s).  As an alternative, you’ll coat the crates with a chemical sealer to keep pests out.  Lastly, make certain you’re cleansing the area where you store your animal mounts frequently.

  • Measure the Doors

If you’re using wooden crates, for storing a number of the larger mounts, can measure the doors before renting a space to make certain that the storage unit will fill your needs.

Storing Your Vehicles, Boats and RVs Can Help With a Quick Home Sale

A modern suburban home with a clean and spacious driveway and garage, free of vehicles, surrounded by a well-maintained yard. The scene is bright and inviting, representing a home ready for sale. A storage facility is subtly visible in the background, symbolizing off-site vehicle storage.
De-cluttering your home driveway and garage by storing excess vehicles off-site can create a spacious and appealing environment for potential buyers.

In a competitive sellers’ market, staging your home is essential. While a lived-in appearance can increase the chances of a sale, too much clutter or the wrong items on display can have the opposite effect.

Many homeowners rent storage units to declutter their homes during the selling process. However, one often-overlooked strategy is storing excess vehicles. Boats, second cars, RVs, and snowmobiles can take up valuable space and detract from your home’s appeal. Here’s why storing these vehicles might be a smart move:

  • Here is why:

Vehicles take up a large amount of space.  This can make your garage or driveway feel crowded.  Many home buyers want as much space as they can get for their money, removing one or more vehicles from your property creates the illusion of more room to your home’s potential new owner.

If your vehicles are not in the best shape, they can make your property look shabby.  This can turn-off potential buyers or encourage low-ball offers.

Parking in front of your home can often make your place less visible to potential buyers.

  • Types of Vehicle Storage:Fortunately, our storage facilities provide vehicle storage services. Your choices might include:
  • Outside Storage:  This is basically an oversized parking lot. Rent a spot and park your vehicle for as long as you would like. this is|this can be} often the most cost-efficient choice and a decent alternative.
  • Drive-In Storage Units:  If you plan to store things other than your vehicle, check out a drive-in storage unit.  These are large, garage-like storage units that you can use to store your vehicle(s) and your belongings.  These units provide a large amount of protection and security for your vehicle(s) and may prove cost-efficient if you have lots of things that you have to store while your house is on the market.
  • Key Questions to Ask Before Renting:

Before selecting a storage facility, consider the following:

  • Security: What security measures are in place? Are there cameras, gates, or on-site staff?

  • Accessibility: How easy is it to access your vehicle? Are there restrictions on entry hours?

  • Lighting: Is the facility well-lit for safety and ease of access, especially if you’ll need to visit after dark?

Final Thoughts:

Staging your home isn’t just about furniture and decor. Ensuring your property feels open, tidy, and inviting extends to your driveway and garage. By storing extra vehicles off-site, you can create a more spacious and appealing environment for prospective buyers, helping your home stand out in a competitive market.

Things From Childhood That You Should Never Throw Away

“Never say goodbye because goodbye means going away and going away means forgetting.”

While Peter Pan’s J.M. Barrie may not have been referring to the things around your house, we still think it could apply.

Here are five things from your childhood you ought to never throw away because “going away means forgetting”

  • Trophies and awards

Where you the “Student of the Month” in third grade?  While this may not be something you put on your resume, keeping awards from your childhood may be a fun way to travel down memory lane.  So if you were a straight A student, all-star athlete, science fair winner, or anything else deserving of a trophy, or ribbon growing up, then hold onto those memories.

  • Artwork

Instead of discarding all of your childhood drawings and paintings, store them away for nostalgia’s sake.  Here is a link to The Artful Parent – 21 Ideas to Display Kids Artwork.

  • Yearbooks

From college to elementary school, yearbooks are definitely something worth keeping.  Not only do they have photos of the good old days, they also include nice messages from your childhood friends and teachers who signed them for you.

  • Sentimental clothing

Not just any article of clothing, keep the special things that you wouldn’t mind passing down.  This might include hand-loomed sweaters or outfits worn during important events like religious ceremonies, birthdays, or weddings.  It may also include athletic uniforms, like the one you wore throughout the big game!

  • Things that you could not live without growing up

Whether it’s your favorite stuffed animal or blanket, we all have something that we took everywhere growing up.  No need to get rid of it simply because you’re older.  Keep your special childhood item just for memories or to pass them down to your kids.

Self-Storage Tips for Traveling Long-Term

If you happen to be traveling or moving to a far away location, then you will need to deal with all your belongings in the best way possible.  You will have to downsize and cut away a lot of your belongings so that you can make the move, especially if you are not planning on leaving a home behind.  In many cases you will be able to leave some of your belongings with family or friends, letting them use them or giving them away completely, in other instances you will have to deal with a self-storage facility.  The following tips will give you some knowledge on how you can prepare yourself for that day.

  • Choosing a Self-Storage Facility

One of the first things you have to do with your efforts is to figure out which local company has the most cost-effective solution for your needs.  It would be wisest to choose a self-storage facility located near a major street or even a highway, this will give you the easiest access at all times.  There is more than that though properties outside city limits may also be less expensive.  Here is a great article about Finding a storage unit for your next move. 

  • Downsizing Your Belongings

Once you have chosen the location of the storage unit you will need to rid yourself of all the things that you won’t be using anymore.  Large pieces of furniture that you know you won’t need should go away, allowing others to make use of them.  You can use classifieds websites to help facilitate get the job done or you can organize a yard sale.  Alternately, you can just donate them to a charity to pass through the process faster.  If you are doing a yard sale remember to keep prices low so you won’t have pack all of you belongings up.  The main idea is to get something out of the whole ordeal so you can help to counteract the expenses of your move.  Be sure and get a receipt from the charities then you can get the tax write-offs.

  • Packing Phase

Once you have completed the downsizing phase of your preparations you must pay close attention to the packing of everything that is left for your storage unit. One of the most important moments here is labeling all you boxes so you’ll know what is goes where later on.  Make certain to do that in a way that will allow you easy access once they have been delivered to their final destination.  Having a good list on-site will help to organize things and find where everything is whenever you need to return to the storage unit.

  • Moving Things

After all your preparation is complete you will need to move everything to its final destination.  One thing to remember when you are storing things is to avoid over-stuffing and making the stacked boxes to tall.  This will only serve to make them more unstable and dangerous to everything you have stored inside.  Remember to stack heavy boxes on the bottom, this will give you a stable base to work with.

Ways a Storage Unit Can Help Take Your Life to a Better Place

It may not appear that a simple storage unit could mean so much, however, it can take your life in a very different direction, and even help your physical or mental health!  Here are some and sensible ways in which obtaining a storage unit can take you to a far better place.

  • Organize Your Stress Away

Seems awfully weird, however, an untidy home could cause stress!  If you are a scholar with more antiques than you can handle, or somebody feeling crowded with everyday stuff, calm your mind with a storage unit.  (Source:  Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin)

  • Be Healthier

Those who love to spend time exercising outdoors among trees might experience a boost to their immune system.  As nice as that sounds, outdoor enthusiasts own lots of gear that is infamous for cluttering closets and garages. With a storage unit, you will be able to be happy to enjoy the benefits of hiking, biking or kayaking while keeping your home a little more civilized.(Source:  International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology via US National Library of Medicine)

  • Escape the “Real” Pain of Letting Go

Scientists using brain imaging have discovered that getting rid of stuff may really cause you physical pain! If you are the sentimental type, free your home of clutter without any of the pain.  (Source:  Yale School of Medicine via Psychology Today)

  • Find Your inner Peace

You’re a minimalist deep down, however, you would like a little help making the necessary sparseness at home a reality.  A storage unit can help free you to embrace mindful simplicity in your home life.

  • Downsize on Your Own Schedule

For downsizing empty nesters, the world is jam-packed with possibilities.  But your home is full of stuff!  If your downsizing dreams won’t wait, place your belongings in a storage unit and take it slow going through everything.

  • Get Paid to Work Remotely

Employers have finally realized that gifted free spirits can travel the globe and still get a paycheck for doing great work.  Don’t attempt to tame yourself. Instead, place your things in a storage unit, and take an unforgettable year with other free spirits!

  • Read Well, Sleep Well

Scholars with thousands of volumes do one thing right.  E-books can take up less space, however reading on a screen will keep you awake and impact your health!  Once you run out of the space at home, keep those favorite books snuggled safely within a storage unit.  (Source:  Harvard Medical School)

  • Let your inner “Clark Griswold” Out

The holiday enthusiasts of America have inspired beings.  However, sometimes spouses don’t appreciate all the clutter that comes with those plastic reindeer and shining snowmen.  Keep the spousal peace with a storage unit, and let your home shine brightly as a holiday destination.

  • Have a Better Relationship with your Mom and Dad

Millennials moving back in with their folks don’t have to upset the balance at home.  Simply take the bare necessities with you to your Mom and Dad’s place, and store the remainder.  After all, if you nest too long, you’ll be less motivated to get your own place again!

  • Dream “BIG”

You may be reading this on a device that was invented by somebody who started a company in their garage.  Eventually, we have a tendency to outgrow our home offices.  Storage units are excellent for capturing the overflow from your inner entrepreneur, allowing you to grow as you please.

No matter what your storage unit personality is, we hope that you’re going to notice all the most effective way to use a storage unit to make your life even better!

Tips for Finding a Storage Unit for Your Next Move

Wouldn’t it be great if your parents became lifelong curators of your high school trophies and dance pictures? Unfortunately, most of us end up with extra belongings—especially during a move. That’s where a storage unit can come to the rescue. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying out storage for the first time, these tips will help make your experience smooth and stress-free.

  • Location, Location, Location

Real estate agents are onto something with their famous rule: location, location, location. It’s not just important when buying a home—it matters for storage units, too. While an out-of-the-way facility with a lower price might seem appealing, think about how often you’ll need to access your belongings. A long drive might not be worth the savings..

  • Contract

When it comes to storage units, flexibility is key. If you’re already juggling contracts for your gym, apartment, and phone, the last thing you need is another long-term commitment. That’s why many storage facilities offer convenient month-to-month rental options. These short-term contracts are ideal for moves, life transitions, or temporary storage needs. Before you commit, be sure to ask about the terms and conditions to avoid any surprises. A flexible storage solution can make your move or de-cluttering process stress-free and convenient.

  • One size does not fit all

Yes, storage units vary almost as much as the homes that we live.  You may go small and pack every square foot, but it’s going to be frustrating to find things.  On the other side, you may want each box to have its own breathing space, but you’ll pay for it.  Our Managers can help find the size that will work best for you.

  • What type is best for you?

There are three types of storage units.

Drive-up units:  These are on the ground floor with roll-up doors for easy loading and unloading and quick access with no need to walk through interior hallways.
Indoor units:  These offer a house-like setting, and can be more resistant to dust, humidity, and pests.  Many are climate-controlled for sensitive items.
Outdoor units:  These are great for storing vehicles, boats, trailers and RVs.

  • Maximize space

If you have ever packed a suitcase for a trip and just can’t seem to make everything fit.  Be smart about how to use your space.  Disassembling large items like beds and tables; stacking chairs seat-to-seat; store long items vertically when possible; pack similarly sized boxes for easy, safe stacking; set boxes on top of dressers; and consider using shelving.

  • Camel through the eye of a needle

Scary thought, right?  Don’t let it happen to you.  Ask about the height and width of the doors that access your storage unit.  Most drive-up storage units have large, roll-up doors like a garage, smaller storage units have smaller doors.  If you’re storing large items, make sure they will fit in the unit.

  • Play it safe

You wouldn’t leave your iPad and your flat screen TV out on your front yard at night; obviously.  Choose a storage facility that takes security seriously.  Some safety measures to look for:

  • Mechanical gates with individualized key codes
  • Surveillance cameras
  • Good lighting
  • Perimeter fencing
  • On-site managers
  • Easy access

You may only need to get to your snowboard once a year.  But, that collection of bowling balls, now those may need a little more love and attention.  Be aware that office hours and gate hours may be different.

Office hours:
This is when the office is staffed.

Gate hours:
This is when you can access your storage unit.  The hours at our facility are from 6 am to 11 pm.

  • Know what is “not” allowed

Some items, like gasoline, hazardous, toxic or biological waste are not allowed inside storage units.  To avoid surprises by asking for a list of prohibited items.

  • Be covered

While it’s unlikely that an asteroid will hit your storage unit, unexpected events can happen. That’s why it’s important to ensure your belongings are properly insured. Check with your insurance provider to see if your storage unit is covered under your existing policy. If it’s not, many storage facilities offer insurance plans to protect your items. Don’t leave your valuables unprotected—take the time to secure coverage and enjoy peace of mind.