Maximise Your Storage Unit in Canary Wharf: Clever Tips You Haven’t Thought Of
Got extra stuff and nowhere to put it? Our self storage units in Canary Wharf can be a lifesaver—but if you just throw everything in, you’ll end up with a messy pile of boxes that’s impossible to navigate. Here’s how to make the most of your space and keep your belongings safe.
1. Make the Most of Height
Our units are 2.6–3 metres tall—so don’t waste that vertical space. Installing shelving or stacking boxes carefully lets you store more without cramming everything on the floor. Heavy items like books, appliances, or tools should sit at the bottom, while lighter or fragile items can go on top. Clear plastic containers are especially useful—they let you see what’s inside at a glance and protect contents from dust and moisture. You might even consider adding a small step ladder or foldable stool to make reaching high shelves quick and safe.
2. Stick to Standard Boxes
Using uniform, sturdy boxes makes stacking much simpler and prevents wasted gaps. When boxes are all the same size, they fit together neatly, giving you more usable space. Make sure to label boxes clearly on multiple sides with their contents, so you don’t waste time rummaging when you need something quickly. Using plastic containers for items that might get damp or dusty is a small investment that pays off in the long term.
3. Hang Where Possible
Bikes, clothes, ladders—even some sports gear—can often be hung rather than stacked. Wall hooks, racks, or garment rails free up valuable floor space and help keep your Canary Wharf storage unit organised. Hanging clothes in garment bags also keeps them fresh and wrinkle-free. For larger items like bikes or ladders, try to group similar items together so they’re easy to access without moving everything else.
4. Think Inside the Furniture
Furniture can do more than just sit in your storage unit. Empty drawers, cabinets, or hollow furniture like ottomans can be used to store smaller items. This not only saves space but also keeps things dust-free and protected. You can even use the space under beds or inside sofa frames for items you won’t need frequently. Think of furniture as extra storage containers rather than just bulky obstacles.
5. Leave a Path
It’s tempting to cram everything in tightly, but if you can’t reach the back, you’re wasting space. Leaving a small walkway ensures you can access everything easily, making your unit more functional. Plan the layout in zones—for example, keep seasonal items at the back and frequently used items at the front. This prevents you from constantly having to move boxes just to reach what you need.
6. Protect Your Stuff
Fragile items need extra care. Bubble wrap, blankets, or furniture covers protect items from scratches, knocks, and dust. Moisture-absorbing packets prevent mould or damp damage—a common problem in London’s humid climate. For electronics or important documents, consider using waterproof boxes. A little extra protection now saves you headaches later.
7. Keep an Inventory
Make a simple list of what’s in your unit and where it’s located—or take a few photos of your layout. This small step saves huge amounts of time when you need to find something, whether it’s Christmas decorations, sports gear, or luggage. Keeping track also reduces the risk of losing items or forgetting what you’ve stored.
8. Stack Smart
Stacking isn’t just about piling things on top of each other. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter or fragile items on top. Oddly shaped items like suitcases, chairs, or sports equipment should go in corners or against walls to maximise floor space. Consider grouping similar items together—kitchen items, books, or tools—in the same area for easier access.
9. Don’t Forget Corners
Corners are often overlooked, but they’re perfect for extra storage. Use corner shelves, triangular boxes, or hanging racks to squeeze every inch of your unit. Small items like suitcases, storage bins, or baskets can be stacked neatly, turning previously wasted space into a useful storage zone.
10. Rotate Seasonally
Keep items you use most often at the front of your unit and off-season items at the back. This is particularly handy if you’re using our units for luggage storage in Canary Wharf or storing seasonal sports gear. Rotating items this way saves time, reduces the need to move everything around, and keeps your unit accessible year-round.
A little planning goes a long way. With units ranging from 2.6 to 3 metres tall, our self storage units in Canary Wharf can save you time, space, and stress. By using height, smart stacking, and careful organisation, you can make your storage unit work for you—not the other way around.
Ready to reclaim your space? Contact us today to find out how our Canary Wharf units can work for you.