One of the real hidden gems of the Great Plains in Wichita, Kansas. Wichita is the largest single city in the state of Kansas, with a population of nearly four hundred thousand, while the total Wichita metro numbers nearly six hundred and fifty thousand. Us native Kansans in the Northeast part of the state sometimes forget it is part of the same state because it is so far removed from the other densely populated areas of the state, but Wichita soldiers on as a booming industrial and cultural center. 

Wichita is a great place to call home, although it is not without drawbacks. We’ll take a look at some of the pros and cons of living in Wichita through the lens of a lifelong native Kansan. 

What’s it like to live in Wichita, KS?

Wichita is an excellent place to live. Wichita is the 51st largest city in the U.S., sandwiched between Arlington, Texas, at 50, and Aurora, Colorado, at 52. Wichita is an industrial powerhouse that has long been known as “The Air Capital of the World.” And they are not wrong; Wichita is home to Textron Aviation, Learjet, and Boeing/Spirit AeroSystems, which have major manufacturing facilities in Wichita. It is also home to the McConnell Air Force Base, which is the largest aerial refueling base in the Air Force.

Wichita is also home to the largest commercial airport in Kansas, Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport, or ICT as it’s known to the locals. From ICT, you can easily reach any destination in the world from the heart of Kansas, and that’s pretty cool. 

The climate is overall nice, although the summers can be overbearing when you hit the seventh-inning stretch in August or so.  Winters can be cold and snowy in Wichita, but to be honest, this part of the state is quite mild. Springs and fall are great seasons in Wichita, and they afford several months of “window weather,” which is a welcome relief from the hot and muggy summers. 

Arkansas (pronounced “Are-Kansas” in Kansas) runs through downtown, making a beautiful backdrop for the area. Wichita is also academically astute. It is home to Wichita State University, one of the three largest land-grant state universities in Kansas, and a slew of other small private colleges. Several technical schools and community colleges reside in the Wichita metro and surrounding communities.

Is Wichita a Safe Place to Live?

Here’s the deal: Wichita is a large city, so it does deal with crime, as does every other city in the world. 

Wichita scores fairly poorly in this area, with the inner city neighborhoods scoring the worst by a large margin. This pattern of criminal behavior is consistent among basically all major cities, so if you don’t mind a commute, staying in one of the outlying suburbs or small rural towns on the outskirts of Wichita may be your jam. 

My Storage Box plans to open a location in Derby in the near future, and we cannot endorse this town enough. Close enough to Wichita (15 minutes, give or take) to get anywhere quickly, but far enough from the high-crime areas to know that you are safe, all with the small-town atmosphere that makes the Great Plains such a nice place to live. 

What’s the weather like in Wichita, KS?

The Great Plains are mostly known for their extreme weather patterns. Spring storms are well known worldwide, as the Great Plains has the highest concentration of tornadoes in the world. But this is not necessarily a fair assessment of the overall climate. 

Wichita, like the rest of Eastern Kansas (Wichita is really South Central, not Eastern or Western), lies in a humid subtropical environment. This climate lends Wichita to hot, muggy summers and mild-to-cold winters. 

But that doesn’t fully cover the rest of the year. The Great Plains usually has a nice, long springtime with many weeks of “window weather.” Also, Autumn is lovely here, with lots of golden foliage and crisp weather. The cold doesn’t usually really settle in until after Christmas, and actually, cold months are usually just January and February. There is enough snowfall in Wichita to enjoy it, but not so much that it makes getting around all that hard. 

What’s the cost of living in Wichita, KS?

One great thing about the Great Plains is the cost of living. This is a key consideration for people moving to the Midwest from the coasts, where life has become incredibly expensive. Affordable housing is one of the key indicators of an inexpensive place to live, and it makes a great place for young professionals to get started after college. 

Compared to the national average of other cities, Wichita is quite inexpensive and offers highly affordable housing. Gas prices are below the national average, utilities are inexpensive, and groceries are less than average, too. And, after all, this is the nation’s bread basket, so finding lots of local farmer’s markets and fresh food stands is not hard at all in the Wichita area. 

According to Best Places, Wichita is slightly over 17% below the national average, making it a great place to call home. 

But the breakdown in costs is where you really see the massive gains of moving to the Great Plains (author’s note: there is considerable discussion about what Kansas really is: is it Midwest, or Great Plains? We’re going with Great Plains.) The typical home cost in Wichita is a hair over $172,000, whereas the national average is over $338,000. That’s right: Wichita is almost exactly half the price of the national average.  

Thinking about Moving to the Area?

It’s important to understand that there is no perfect place to live. If you want to live by the ocean, you must sometimes deal with severe weather, and it’s going to cost a lot more. If you want a nice, stable place to call home with a low cost of living and easy access to anywhere in the nation, then Wichita is a great place to call home. 

What Are Wichita’s Best Suburbs?

As with most mid-size cities, Wichita is surrounded by a handful of suburbs that make up a good percentage of the population base. Like many cities, these suburbs are the preferred places for families to live and grow. 

Derby

Located about 15 minutes south of Wichita, Derby is a popular suburb with a population of around 25,000. It is a very popular spot for personnel stationed at nearby McConnell Air Force Base, as it is very close to the base but maintains a small-town feel. 

Andover

To the East of Wichita, in Butler County, lies Andover, a town of just under 15,000 people. Andover maintains a small-town appeal but has most of the amenities you’ll need on a daily basis. For bigger grocery trips or getting materials for DIY projects, Andover is only about 20 minutes from Wichita. 

Haysville

Haysville is located on the Southwest edge of Wichita, more or less across I-35 from Derby. Haysville is smaller, with around 11,000 Kansans calling it home. The commute from Haysville to noteworthy employers in Wichita is easy, taking no more than about 20 minutes.

Maize

Finally, we have Maize. Located on the northwest side of Wichita, Maize really is a small town with a population of about 6,000. But this doesn’t tell the whole story; in 2000, Maize only have 1,868 people. It was a tiny town. 

Wichita natives wanting to leave the city and people moving to the area found that Maize is a really nice little place that is still very close to Wichita proper. Highway 96 runs through Maize, which connects to I-235, and from there, you can get anywhere in Wichita easily and quickly. In Maize, you are out of the city but as connected as you want to be. 

Parting Thoughts

Wichita is a truly underrated gem of a city, a beacon high on the hill of the Great Plains. Surrounded by nice, picturesque suburbs, you can live as small or as big as you want. Wichita is a family-oriented city with tons of churches, many schools, including private schools, to tailor education opportunities, and several colleges, including the third-largest state university in Kansas, Wichita State. 

The weather is a detractor, as it tends toward extremes, but that has not proven to be enough to keep a few thousand new Kansans from calling it home. If you are getting ready to move to Wichita, make sure to check out our blog for all kinds of helpful storage and moving tips, and keep your eyes on My Storage Box for new location announcements in the near future!

You’ve Got A Motorcycle to Store. We Can Help.

Motorcycles are one of the most popular forms of motorized transportation of all time, and their popularity doesn’t appear to be waning in the least. In fact, the number of registered motorcycles roughly doubled between 2002-2021, going from 4.3 million to about 8.6 million registered bikes on the road. Obviously, the U.S. population did not grow by that same percentage (287.6 million to 333.3 million), so a lot more people have turned to motorcycles for transportation. 

Maybe it’s because they are cheap. Maybe it’s because they’re fun. Whatever the reason, lots of people are riding them. However, with way over half of the U.S. population residing in places that get cold, motorcycles usually go into storage for a few months. 

Let’s take a look at some tips for storing your bike in the off-season!

Preparing Your Motorcycle for Storage

The first thing you need to do is get your bike ready for storage. There are a few things you need to do before you put your bike away for the winter months. You can’t just take it to the storage facility and park it. 

Maintenance and Repairs

Contrary to popular opinion, modern machines actually really need to be run to maintain their optimal operating condition. So, before you park it for the winter you need to make sure you’ve done a few things to get it ready. 

• Perform any necessary maintenance or repairs before storing your motorcycle to prevent damage and ensure it is in good condition when you take it out of storage.
• Change the oil and filter to prevent corrosion and damage to the engine. Remember that oil becomes acidic when it sits for extended periods and can damage the engine if it sits, so a fresh oil change is cheap insurance. 
• Check the tire pressure and inflate to the recommended level to prevent flat spots. You’ll be glad you did, and it also prevents dry rot cracking. 
• Clean and wax the motorcycle to protect the paint and metal components: always put it away clean, and put a cover over it so it is still nice and clean (and most importantly, free from road grime) come springtime. 

Battery and Tire Care

There are a few basic maintenance tips you should do to make sure your motorcycle battery and tires stay in great shape.

• Disconnect the battery to prevent energy drainage and store it in a warm place to prevent freezing.
• Use a trickle charger or battery tender to maintain the battery’s charge. This isn’t always an option if your storage unit doesn’t have electrical outlets, so removing the battery is the best bet. 
• Inflate the tires to the maximum pressure to prevent flat spots and damage to the tire walls. You also might think about filling the tires with gaseous nitrogen to keep the pressure uniform over the winter. Don’t worry, it’s an inert gas.  
• Consider removing the tires or using a lift to prevent flat-spotting. Or, you can come in every couple of weeks and roll your bike to a new position. You might want to bring in a piece of chalk or a tire crayon to mark the spot on the ground so you know you don’t re-park it on the same spot. 

Storage Unit Security

Your bike is our baby. You care about it. It says something about you. You need to trust that your bike is safe and secure when you park there.

My Storage Box takes your security very seriously. We offer 24/7 access for all of our units with gated access, large paved drives, and security cameras. When you padlock your storage unit, you can rest assured that your bike is in good hands with us.   

Insurance and Legal Considerations

Make sure to keep your insurance current on your bike when you’ve got it in storage, and also make sure to check out your current insurance policy to make sure it covers storage. Also, you might consider checking with your insurance provider to see if they offer a storage or comprehensive-only policy. These policies may be better suited for you when your bike is going to sit for roughly half of the year. Also, they may provide better coverage than your current insurance policy for a bike in storage. Food for thought. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest thing you need to do is to prepare your bike mechanically for storage. Fresh oil (or draining the oil if the owner’s manual calls for it). The battery is a particularly weak point on all vehicles put into storage for the winter. Pulling the battery out completely for storage is a great idea, unless the operator’s manual specifically calls against it. You can keep it stored in your house, preferably hooked up to a trickle charger through the winter to promote long battery life. 

Make sure to put a drip pan under the engine, too. If there are any leaks, the pan will catch them, so you won’t have to pay for clean-up in the storage unit. 

Finally, if you have a fork lock, make sure to lock it. It is one more level of protection, just in case. 

Storage Unit Options

This is up to you. Our small storage units (8×10) are plenty large enough to house even the biggest motorcycles. Of course, if you have other stuff to store along with your bike(s), you can always go bigger. Our 8×20 offers about 160 square feet of secure storage space, and the 8×40 offers 320 square feet.  

Parting Thoughts

If you’re a little tight on garage space (or don’t have a garage at all), storing your motorcycle can be worrisome. You don’t want to leave it out in the weather, and bringing it inside the house is probably not advisable. But don’t worry! You can always store it in a My Storage Box storage unit! Our prices are affordable, you can get in and out 24/7, and with our video monitoring, secure gated entry, and pad-lockable storage units, you know your bike is in good hands. 

You can click the link to get started where you can reserve a unit and make monthly payments. You can also call us at (580) 300-3006. 

You don’t have to travel far for an adventure that’ll leave you with long-lasting memories. Sometimes, the most incredible experiences are right in your own backyard. Oklahoma is full of opportunities to satisfy your adventurous spirit, from breathtaking natural landscapes to exciting urban experiences.

If you’re looking for some fresh inspiration or you’re new to the state, we’ve put together a list of the 15 most interesting attractions in Oklahoma that promise an unforgettable adventure. Check them out!

Natural Wonders

1. Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center

Beavers Bend State Park is located in the southeastern part of Oklahoma, near Broken Bow, along the foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains. This nearly 3,500-acre state park offers rolling hills and low-lying mountains that create a beautiful spot for a wide range of outdoor activities.

Beavers Bend State Park is a perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a variety of activities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating on the clear waters of the Mountain Fork River.

2. Natural Falls State Park

Another way to connect with nature in Oklahoma is the Natural Falls State Park, located in northeast Oklahoma near the Arkansas border. With its 77-foot waterfall and scenic hiking trails, it creates a serene escape into one of Oklahoma’s most stunning natural wonders.

Some might even describe this stunning scenery as cinematic, and they’d be spot on—this beautiful location served as a filming site for the 1974 movie “Where the Red Fern Grows.” So, whether you’re an avid hiker or looking for a peaceful retreat, Natural Falls State Park is a must-see destination.

3. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, located in Lawton in the southwestern part of Oklahoma, spans over 59,000 acres of geologically fascinating terrain of Wichita Mountains surrounded by vast undisturbed prairies. The refuge is home to a remarkable variety of wildlife such as free-range American bison herds, Texas Longhorn cattle, prairie dogs, bobcats and coyotes. One of the most iconic spots in the park is Mount Scott, a majestic peak that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Experiences

4. Oklahoma History Center

Oklahoma has a deep and rich history, rooted in its Native American heritage and life on the frontier. This is why the Oklahoma History Center is a must-visit. 

The eighteen-acre, 215,000-square-foot learning center explores the state’s complex history of Native American culture, pioneers, aviation, commerce and more. It’s the perfect place to explore the unique stories and people that shaped Oklahoma, celebrating the resilient spirit that built the state into what it is today.

5. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Another jewel of Oklahoma is certainly the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. It’s considered America’s premier institution of Western history, art and culture. 

This museum features artifacts, artwork, and interactive exhibitions that perfectly capture the Western spirit and let you experience what life was like in the Old West as well as how it still influences the state today. Here, you’ll get to experience the world of American cowboys, rodeos, Native American culture, the frontier military, Victorian-era firearms and much more.

6. Oklahoma City Museum of Art

Oklahoma City Museum of Art is one of the leading arts institutions in the state. It has an impressive range of exhibitions—from paintings and photography to glass pieces and sculptures— curated from renowned museums and collections around the world. You’ll be able to see some international standout pieces from North America, Europe, and Asia, with a special focus on American art and postwar abstraction.

7. First Americans Museum

In the First Americans Museum, you’ll get to learn about the collective histories of Oklahoma’s 39 distinctive First American Nations. The museum features engaging exhibitions and workshops about Native Americans’ unique cultures, resilience, and contributions. It’s a unique destination famous for its thoughtful and powerful representation of First American culture.

Outdoor Adventures

8. Chickasaw National Recreation Area

For an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Oklahoma, Chickasaw National Recreation Area is a must-visit. Located in the heart of south-central Oklahoma, along the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains, this serene haven was once known as the “Peaceful Valley of Rippling Waters” by American Indians. True to its name, the area offers a serene escape for nature lovers. There’s something for everyone’s adventurous soul, from hiking to swimming, camping to picnicking or fishing to wildlife viewing.

9. Lake Tenkiller

Talking about Oklahoma gems, Lake Tenkiller is high on the list of must-see places. It’s located in eastern Oklahoma’s Cookson Hills and considered one of the state’s most scenic lakes. Lake Tenkiller is known for its rocky bluffs, wooded shores, and clear waters with a touch of emerald. It’s a perfect spot for hiking, fishing, boating, and even scuba diving.

Road Trips

10. Historic Route 66

If you’re looking for a movie-like adventure, here’s one for you! You can drive along one of the most renowned roads in the US, passing through eight states, including Oklahoma. This legendary route, often called the “Main Street of America,” offers a nostalgic road trip experience filled with vintage diners, quirky motels, and classic Americana.

There are even museums and monuments dedicated to the famous route such as Oklahoma Route 66 Museum. You can also explore the charming towns and cities along the way, like Tulsa and Oklahoma City.

Urban Delights

11. Tulsa’s Hidden Gems

Another way to immerse yourself in Oklahoma spirit is to do as the locals do, especially if you’re new to the state. That’s why we recommend Tulsa, a city full of hidden gems and unique cultural experiences. You can explore the vibrant arts and culture scene, featuring elegant art deco buildings and world-class art museums. 

This city is perfect for you if you want to enjoy fine dining, shopping, and outdoor recreation areas in this thriving city. Our recommendation is to visit the Phillips Petroleum Company, which has funded the building of several museums and edifices.

12. Rhythm & Routes Oklahoma Music Trail

Oklahoma’s musical legacy runs deep, from jazz and blues to country. That’s where Rhythm & Routes Oklahoma Music Trail guide comes in hand, as it features important music landmarks and artists. 

On the Travel Oklahoma website, you can explore the trail, find sites linked to famous musicians, and plan your trip. For example, the itinerary options include the most famous musicians in the country, such as the greatest-selling solo artist in U.S. history, Garth Brooks. There’s also Carrie Underwood’s route and Reba McEntire itinerary.

13. Bricktown

Bricktown is an industrial-chic district located in the the heart of downtown Oklahoma City on a canal that links it with downtown and the Oklahoma River.

Made out of repurposed warehouses, this dining and entertainment district is now home to restaurants, piano lounges and chic wine bars. Bricktown is the ideal spot for lovers of urban culture and nightlife.

Scenic Drives

14. Scenic Byways and Country Roads

Scenic Byways and Country Roads are a great way to experience the diverse beauty of Oklahoma.

You can start with a scenic drive through the Ozark Highlands, northeast Oklahoma, near the border with Arkansas. Next, explore the rolling hills and low-lying mountains of southeast Oklahoma, which offers serene and beautiful landscapes. Finish your journey by driving along the shores of the scenic Great Salt Plains Lake in north Oklahoma. This road trip is great for getting to know the state’s natural charm and beauty.

Food and Drink

15. Oklahoma’s Culinary Scene

Oklahoma’s culinary scene is the final recommendation to top off your adventure. Yes, it’s that delicious! Discover the unique flavors and atmospheres of Oklahoma’s eateries and watering holes. We recommend tasting everything, from charming local diners to trendy restaurants, as the state’s food scene is truly delightful exploration of unique dishes and regional specialties. There’s no better way to experience the heart of America’s heartland than through its cuisine.

All these unique places are sure to make you fall even more in love with Oklahoma. If you’re new to the state and looking for storage options while you get settled, you can count on My Storage Box in Ponta City, Oklahoma. 

We offer convenient, affordable, and secure storage units to keep your stuff safe during relocation and give you peace of mind during these periods of change.

If you’ve got any questions, call us for more details at (580) 300-3006!

Organizing a storage unit might not seem like a top priority when it comes to self-storage, but trust us, it’s more important than you think. The most obvious reason is that you want to maximize your storage space and avoid paying for extra space you don’t need. Additionally, a well-organized storage unit saves you the frustration of digging through piles of items to find what you need. By keeping things tidy, you ensure your things are easily accessible whenever you need them.

And hey, your future self will thank you for taking the time to make a plan for organizing your storage unit. We’ve got your back! Check out these nine easy ways to get your storage space in perfect order.

9 Tips for Organizing Your Storage Unit Like a Pro

Organizing a storage unit isn’t as complicated as you may think now. It all boils down to simple preparation. Here are nine tips for effective organization to help you get started.

1. Label Your Boxes Well

Starting off strong, one of the simplest yet surprisingly effective ways to organize your storage unit is by labeling your boxes.

You might think you’ll remember all the contents of each box, but experience shows that after a while, people tend to forget minor details (or, in this case, the contents of unmarked boxes). It’s unlikely you’ll recall where you packed your books or old photos in a month, let alone longer.

Make sure you label your boxes thoroughly—on the top and at least on one side. Position the label facing forward so it’s visible upon entry. Include the box number, the room it’s from, and a detailed list of contents.

The future ‘you’ will thank you for sparing unnecessary stress when searching for specific items. Detailed labels make a world of difference and can save you a lot of time and effort.

2. Create a List of All Inventory

Additionally, consider creating a master inventory list. Along with labeling your boxes, a master list will help you find your things much more quickly and easily. We understand this might sound like a lot of work, but trust us, it takes far less time to organize your unit beforehand than to search chaotically through your storage space later on.

Number each box and then write down the corresponding number on your list along with a detailed description of its contents. This way, you can easily refer to your list when needed.

3. Store Items Inside Clear Bins

Another way to keep your storage unit organized is to store your items inside clear plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes. This way, you’ll see what’s inside each box and keep track of your stuff more easily. You won’t have to dig through your storage unit to find that pair of boots or your school yearbook, but you’ll know right off the bat which bin to open.

Clear plastic bins also offer better protection against pests and moisture, so there’s an added benefit for you!

4. Disassemble Furniture and Store Items Upright

Consider disassembling furniture to maximize space in your storage unit and organize it more efficiently. For instance, you can take apart bulky items like bed frames and headboards, as well as disassemble table legs. This will make them easier to pack but also more stable.

We also recommend strategically positioning all your heavy boxes for both stability and better use of space. Store heavy items vertically such as sofas, dressers, and bookshelves towards the back of your storage unit. When you store them upright or on the side, you’ll open up more floor space for other things in your self storage.

5. Store Heavy Stuff on the Bottom and Lighter Stuff on Top

It’s all about strategic thinking when organizing storage units. Careful preparation will save you a lot of time and struggle later on, so make sure you’re smart about it. Before you start piling up your boxes and risking turning your unit into a mess, think about how you’re going to store your heavy things.

Experience has shown that one of the best storage solutions is to place heavy boxes at the bottom and lighter items on top. It’s a safer, more practical, and overall more efficient storage solution that will help you find your stored items more easily later on. It also helps protect your fragile items and allows easy access to your storage unit.

6. Remember to Go Vertical

We can’t stress enough the importance of utilizing vertical space in storage units. So, when organizing your storage unit, remember to go vertical with your items. Stack boxes high and furniture upright. In case you have some shelving units, don’t let it go to waste. Use those shelves or stacking boxes to create extra storage space for your things.

You can also consider adding wire shelving or hanging shelves to take advantage of vertical space even further. This will allow you to stack smaller boxes or fragile items off the floor, keeping your unit neat and easily accessible.

7. Place Items You Need More Frequently Toward the Front

This one may sound obvious, but many people overlook it. But we’re here to remind you!

Make sure you remember to put items you plan to use more frequently toward the front of the storage unit when you’re stacking items. It will make your life much easier and simpler, but also help you avoid the frustration of having to dig through everything just to find that one item.

To give you a general idea, these are the items you might need more frequently than others:

• Seasonal items and clothing like heavy coats, boots, hats, and swimsuits
• Hobby supplies such as crafting, painting, or camping gear
• Baby and toddler items like strollers, cribs, and toys
• Holiday decorations
• Tools like screwdrivers or hammers that you might need for household repairs

8. Create a Center Aisle

If you don’t want your storage unit to look like a maze, you may want to consider creating a center aisle. This simple yet effective organizational hack can make all the difference when you’re trying to find or retrieve items quickly and efficiently. So, if possible, create a clear path down the center of your storage unit for easy access and flexibility.

9. Use the Right Packing Materials

Finally, remember to use the right packing materials for your stuff. It helps organize a storage unit by ensuring that items are stored safely, efficiently, and systematically. Your things will be protected and are more likely to remain in good condition while in storage. Plus, it’s much easier to pack things when they’re wrapped in bubble wrap or placed in sturdy boxes.

Clear bins are not the only tool that can help you be organized with your stuff. You can also take advantage of vacuum-sealed bags, silica gel packets, mattress covers, labeling supplies like markers and tape, etc.

How to Pick the Best Storage Unit Size for Your Needs

When it comes to organizing storage units, it’s not just about making the most out of your space. It’s also about picking the right storage unit for your needs. This is where size truly matters.

If you’re not sure how to choose the right size, we’d like to help out. Here are our key tips for selecting a storage unit:

• Identify the main purpose of the storage unit – Determine whether you need your unit for storing personal belongings, business items, or a combination of these;
• Make a preliminary list of items – Create a list of everything you’re planning to store and categorize them by size to estimate how much space you’ll need;
• Estimate the size and dimensions – Measure the exact dimensions of your largest items and estimate the total cubic footage;
• When in doubt, choose a bigger storage unit – If you’re unsure, it’s always wiser to go one size bigger and opt for a slightly larger unit;
• Understand storage unit dimensions – Familiarize yourself with common storage unit sizes and understand how much they can hold.

In general, the rule of thumb is the following:

Unit Size	Dimensions	Storing capacity
Small units	5’x5′ to 5’x10′ feet	Good for storing boxes, small furniture, seasonal items
Medium units	10’x10′ to 10’x15′ feet	Can fit the contents of a one-bedroom apartment
Large units	10’x20′ feet and larger	Ideal for multi-bedroom homes, large furniture, or vehicles

Final Thoughts

To rent the right size storage unit for your needs, it’s essential to thoroughly research what top storage facilities offer and then to organize your belongings properly.

If you’re still in the process of finding a reliable storage service provider in your area, check out My Storage Box in Ponca City, Oklahoma. We offer affordable, easy access, and secure storage units in various sizes to meet your specific needs. You can contact us 24/7, 7 days a week, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you in finding the right storage unit for your belongings!

Self-storage units come in handy when you want to declutter your home, store furniture while you’re moving, or downsize your living space. But are storage units safe? 

This is just one of the common concerns people have when thinking about renting storage spaces. These kinds of worries tend to make people want to avoid renting storage units altogether, which is, if you ask us, totally unnecessary. 

Today, we’re here to tell you all you want to know about self-storage security (concerns and myths) and help you make the right decision. Let’s dive in!

Most Common Concerns About Storage Safety

We get it—you want all the facts before you consider renting a self-storage unit. Perfectly understandable! Understanding the potential risks and concerns you may expose yourself to is a crucial part of the whole process. So, let’s see what they are.

Concern #1 Are Storage Units Safe?

One of the most common questions storage users have is: should I avoid renting self-storage units?

Absolutely not. And here’s why.

Your stuff is usually safe and sound in a storage unit because most modern storage facilities provide high security and are well-equipped to prevent theft, burglaries, and damage.

In fact, your stuff can be even more secure in a storage unit than in your home, but again, this depends on the self-storage facility. 

Security is a top concern in the self-storage industry. That’s why most storage businesses put a lot of effort into keeping their facilities safe from break-ins and less prone to damage, ensuring the peace of mind of their customers.

Concern #2 Will My Stuff Get Ruined in a Storage Unit?

Another common concern is whether stored belongings are vulnerable to rain damage, mold, mildew, fire hazards, etc. It’s natural to worry about these kinds of events, especially because they’re often out of our control.

Let’s consider rain for a moment. It can be a big problem, not just for your stored items but also for your home. When there’s structural damage to the property, it can seep into your belongings and cause serious damage from leaks, flooding, and moisture. 

And moisture can be a big enemy to your stuff, even without heavy rainfall as it can create ideal conditions for mold and mildew to grow.

But fear not—most storage facilities go to great lengths to protect your items from environmental damage and pests. 

If you choose a reliable storage provider and pack your stuff properly, your stuff is far less likely to get ruined by mold, fire hazards, or any other pesky hazards that might threaten it.

Concern #3 Will My Items Be Accessible?

You might also be concerned about whether you’ll have flexible access to your storage unit. That’s a valid question, and you’re certainly not the only one who feels that way. 

Renting a storage space should make your life easier, not more complicated. That’s the entire point of storage facilities! 

While storing items in self-storage won’t replicate the convenience of storing them in your own garage, you still want to make sure easy access without any hassle.

It all depends on the storage facility, so make sure you look for accessibility when exploring your options. The truth is most storage facilities offer flexible access hours. But it’s always wise to double check with the storage facility about their access policies and hours so that they match your schedule and needs. 

The bottom line is accessibility concerns shouldn’t be the reason to avoid renting self-storage units.

The Facts About Storage Unit Safety

We’ve addressed the most common concerns about storage unit safety. Now, let’s talk facts!

Here’s why you should absolutely not avoid renting a self-storage unit for your belongings.

Advanced Security Measures

Self-storage units are not what they used to be. After all, we’re living in the digital age, which means modern tech is on our side when it comes to preventing theft and burglary.

So, the number one reason you shouldn’t dismiss self-storage units is definitely that most modern storage facilities have high-tech security systems, including surveillance cameras, electronic gate access, and on-site personnel. 

If you think about it, your stuff is probably even safer in a storage facility than on your personal property.

Environmental Protection

Storage facilities often have climate-controlled units to protect belongings from extreme temperatures, humidity, and pests. This level of protection tremendously lowers the risk of infestation and damage to sensitive items such as wooden furniture, electronics, or other high-value items. 

If you pack your things properly and choose a reliable storage unit, you won’t have to worry about irreversible damage from annoying pests or extreme weather conditions.

Accessibility and Convenience

Many storage providers offer flexible access hours and convenient locations, ensuring you can get to your items whenever you need them. It may not be quite like your own home, but you can certainly find a convenient storage unit that checks all your boxes. This flexibility makes storage solutions a practical way to reduce clutter at home and make your life more organized.

Insurance Options

Some storage facilities often offer insurance options to cover potential damage, loss, or theft of your stored belongings. But if not, you can also always buy this yourself from your insurance agent. This financial protection is crucial in case of unexpected events, further demonstrating that storing your stuff in a storage unit is an absolutely safe and reliable option.

What Can You Do to Keep Your Stuff Safe

On top of everything else we covered above, there’s another factor that plays a role in keeping your stuff as safe as possible: you. 

That’s right—you can absolutely play a significant part in ensuring the safety of your belongings. Here are some proactive steps you can take:

Choose a Secure Facility

The best way to keep your belongings safe is to choose a secure storage unit. This means opting for a self-storage facility with advanced security measures such as security cameras, alarm systems, and other security features.

Some of the key security features to look for when you’re exploring storage solutions are the following: 

• Access control systems: This technology helps manage who enters and exits the storage facility. Each client receives a unique access code that adds extra security and prevents unauthorized access;
• Well-lit facility: If the entire facility is well-lit, there’s a smaller risk of theft and break-ins. So, check if the storage unit of your choice has proper lighting or at least motion-activated sensor lighting;
• Regular maintenance: A well-maintained facility will make you more comfortable when storing your belongings elsewhere. It shows that the company is serious about following security measures and keeping your property safe;
• Digital surveillance: Surveillance cameras are the first line of defense when it comes to storage unit safety. They help deter potential thieves and identify unauthorized access, ensuring your stored items remain secure.

Pack Your Belongings Properly

If you’re packing your stuff for long-term storage, you may feel especially anxious about keeping them in good condition. But this is also a valid concern even if you’re planning to store items for a short amount of time.

Rest assured, it all boils down to proper preparation. Follow these steps:

1. Clean and dry your items properly to avoid mold
2. Check for food stains because they can also attract mold and other pests
3. Choose the right containers for your things to protect them against moisture (for example, use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and acid-free boxes for books instead of cardboard boxes)
4. Add desiccators into your boxes to absorb moisture, keeping mold and mildew away
5. Consider using mold-preventative products to prevent mold growth

Visit Your Storage Unit Regularly

If ‘out of sight, out of mind’ doesn’t apply in your case, you might want to consider visiting your storage unit on a regular basis to ensure everything is in order. This is especially important if you have expensive items stored or you’ve opted for long-term storage. 

Visiting regularly can also help keep your belongings in pristine condition because you can catch early signs of mold or mildew and do something to prevent serious damage. If possible, aim to visit once a month so that you can open the door, allow the air to circulate, and check your belongings. 

Consider Insurance

Finally, if you want to feel extra safe about your stored belongings, you can consider insurance coverage. 

Ask your insurance agent about your options, especially if you have valuable items in self-storage. They’ll help you understand whether insurance is necessary and discuss your best options with you. This can be the final piece of the puzzle to ensure your stuff is safe and sound.

Choose MyStorageBox for Your Storage Needs

As you can see, there’s no reason to let these concerns deter you from the convenience and benefits of self-storage. 

With a reliable self-storage provider, you’ll get the best of both worlds: a decluttered home and peace of mind.

When looking for a trusted self-storage unit, look for factors that are the most important to you, such as high-quality access control systems, regular maintenance, or flexible access. You’ll find that finding the right partner for your storage needs is like a weight off your shoulders.

At MyStorageBox, we keep all our units extremely secure, fully fenced, and gated with keypad access so you can come and go as you please but also be confident your stuff is in safe hands. 

If you’ve got any questions, call us for more details at (580) 300-3006!