A Simple Guide to Putting Away Jackets, Boots, Sports Equipment & Tools
Summer is here — and with it comes a chance to swap muddy boots for flip-flops, and raincoats
for beach towels. But before you dive into vacation mode, there’s one small task that can make
a big difference: clearing out your spring gear.
Whether it’s gardening tools, rain jackets, or sports equipment from a busy spring season,
packing these items away now helps open up space for the things you’ll actually use all summer
long. Here’s how to do it quickly and effectively.
Start with a Clean Sweep
Before anything goes into storage, give it a quick clean. A little effort now keeps your things in
good condition and makes unpacking next season much easier.
● Jackets & Boots: Shake out dirt, wipe them down, and make sure everything is
completely dry. Damp materials can lead to odors or mold.
● Sports Gear: Rinse or wipe off cleats, pads, and helmets. Let them air out thoroughly
before packing them away.
● Yard Tools: Brush off any leftover soil, give them a rinse, and dry completely to avoid
rust or wear.
Pick the Right Containers
Your storage setup doesn’t need to be fancy — just practical.
● Clear plastic bins work great for outerwear, shoes, and smaller items. You can easily
see what’s inside without digging.
● Garment bags or tall boxes are a smart option for long coats or bulky jackets.
● Totes, crates, or mesh bags are perfect for organizing balls, gloves, and other sports
equipment.
● Use small tool boxes or bins for gardening gloves, hand tools, and any loose
accessories.
Label each container clearly so you know exactly where everything is when next spring rolls
around.
Keep It Organized
Group similar items together and store them in sections. This not only saves space, but makes
unpacking next season a breeze.
Try sorting things into categories like:
● Rain gear
● Spring yard tools
● Kids’ sports gear
● Outdoor accessories
Place items you won’t need until next spring toward the back, and keep anything you might
need sooner within reach.
Store It All Somewhere Out of the Way
Once everything is packed, the big question is: where to put it?
If your closets are already packed or your garage is overflowing, consider a self storage unit. It’s
an easy way to keep seasonal items out of the way without giving up space at home.
Look for a unit that fits your containers comfortably — no need to overdo it. And if you’re storing
items that don’t hold up well in heat (like leather boots or certain fabrics), a climate-controlled
unit might be worth considering.
Enjoy the Extra Space
With your spring gear stored away, you’ll feel the difference right away. Suddenly your front
closet can fit beach towels and sun hats. Your garage has room for bikes, pool floats, and
summer tools. And your weekends feel just a little bit easier to enjoy.
Quick Tip: Snap a photo of your labeled bins before stacking or storing them — it’s a helpful
reference when it’s time to bring everything back out.
By spending just a little time now to store your spring gear, you’ll set yourself up for a clutter-
free, carefree summer. And isn’t that what this season’s all about?
