How to Store Seasonal Items the Smart Way (and Rotate Them with Ease)

Seasonal items like holiday decorations, winter gear, summer sports equipment, and patio furniture can quickly take over your home if they aren’t stored properly. Using a self storage unit is one of the easiest ways to keep your space organized year-round — especially when you know how to pack and rotate items efficiently.

At Forest Lake Storage, we help customers store seasonal belongings safely while keeping them easy to access when the season changes.

What Items Should Be Stored Seasonally?

• Holiday decorations and artificial trees
• Winter coats, boots, and snow gear
• Summer sports equipment and beach gear
• Camping supplies and outdoor furniture
• Seasonal clothing and shoes

How to Pack Seasonal Items for Storage

1. Use Clear, Labeled Containers

Clear plastic bins allow you to see what’s inside without opening every box. Label each container with the season and contents for quick identification. According to Good Housekeeping, labeled containers reduce damage and save time when unpacking.

2. Protect Items from Moisture

Use plastic bins instead of cardboard whenever possible. Add moisture absorbers or silica packets to bins containing clothing, fabric, or paper items. Avoid storing items directly on the floor.

3. Break Down Large Items

Disassemble patio furniture, shelving, or sports equipment to maximize space. Store screws and small hardware in labeled bags taped to the item.

4. Wrap Fragile Decorations

Wrap ornaments, lights, and breakable décor in bubble wrap or packing paper. The experts at The Spruce recommend compartmented ornament containers for added protection.

How to Rotate Seasonal Items Efficiently

Store by Access Frequency

Place the next season’s items near the front of your storage unit. Items not needed for several months should be stored toward the back.

Create Seasonal Zones

Organize your unit into sections such as “Winter,” “Summer,” and “Holiday.” This makes swapping items quick and prevents unnecessary digging.

Use Shelving for Easy Access

Adding shelves keeps items off the ground and makes rotation much easier. Vertical storage also maximizes your unit’s usable space.

When Should You Rotate Seasonal Items?

• Spring: Store winter clothing, snow blowers, and holiday décor
• Summer: Store school supplies, fall decorations, and cold-weather gear
• Fall: Store patio furniture, camping gear, and summer sports equipment
• Winter: Store outdoor tools and summer accessories

Why Choose Forest Lake Storage?

Conveniently located in Forest Lake, MN, Forest Lake Storage offers clean, secure, and easily accessible storage units ideal for seasonal item storage. Our facility makes it simple to rotate belongings in and out as the seasons change.

If you’re ready to free up space at home and stay organized all year long, contact Forest Lake Storage today or reserve your unit online.