Make space for 2026

The holidays have come and gone for most of us. You might be left looking around your home and thinking, "Where did all this 'stuff' come from?". Your Christmas storage is overflowing because you had to buy those new decorations that seemed like a good idea at the time, so now there is no room in the garage. The thoughtful, useful kitchen gifts that aren't used every day are sitting on the counter, taking up space and making it hard to do anything. Let's not even start to talk about the extra toys the kids received from family and friends.

Christmas has just added new items to spaces that might already have been struggling.

If you’re sitting there thinking, “I don’t just need to reset from Christmas, I need to get my whole house under control,” that’s where using self storage can help. Storage King has self storage options available with locations all across Australia and New Zealand, which means more room to move for you and more options.

Organise your ornaments and decorations.

When you’re packing away the holiday magic:

• Sort as you go: Separate the fragile stuff from the sturdy bits and group them by category (tree, outdoor, garlands).
• Purge the junk: If it’s broken or looking a bit "tired," let it go!
• Hack your lights: Wrap them around a hanger or a wrapping paper tube to avoid detangling later.
• Upgrade your storage: Ditch the beat-up boxes and grab some new dedicated storage boxes and bags. Your future self will thank you!

Donate unwanted gifts or duplicate items

Start by taking an inventory of everything you received. If something isn’t right for you or you already have one, consider donating the one you don't want or need. It will prevent your cupboards from filling up with unnecessary things.

Keep a bag near the front door for any items or unwanted gifts you plan on donating. That way, it will remind you to grab them next time you're leaving the house and won't sit in the spare room for two months.

Clean the fridge and pantry.

Now is a good time to take stock of what's actually in your fridge or pantry. Are you going to eat it? Did you buy it and now don't actually want it? Anything expired can be thrown out, and anything that has not expired can be donated to a charity pantry.

Tackle one problem area at a time

Start with places that serve a functional purpose, like the entryway, your desk, the kitchen island or your bedside table. By fine-tuning these high-traffic spots, you'll set yourself up to be more organised.

Organise closets

Don't let your closet become a "catch-all" for the rest of the house. Grab some matching hangers for a clean look, group your clothes by category (tops, bottoms, dresses), and use shelf dividers to keep those folded stacks from toppling over. Seasonal or special occasion clothes can be stored to give you room for more of the everyday items you wear.

Forgotten instruments

We’ve all got an instrument or two sitting around collecting dust, maybe even sitting in the living room corner. Forgotten hobbies which we never picked up again, or sentimental items we’d rather pass on to the next generation. It might be time to consider storing these items out of your home; that way, you will have more space and still have the option to pick up your instrument or hobby later on.

Out With the Old (Tech!)

Christmas can mean a tech upgrade for many. But before you toss your old phone into that "junk drawer", deal with it now while you're still thinking about it.

• Wipe it clean: For phones, tablets, or laptops, back up your photos first, then perform a factory reset to remove your personal information.
• Small stuff counts: Old earbuds, fitness trackers, and those random tangled chargers can be cleared out in one go.
• Give it a second life: If it still works, sell it or donate it. If it’s truly dead, don’t just bin it! Use a recycling service, or check out the trade-in/recycling programs from Apple or Samsung.

Taming the Toy Chaos

If your floor is currently a minefield of new toys, it’s time for a quick edit. Before the new toys move in permanently, help your kids pick out the ones they’ve outgrown or haven't touched in months. 

• Try a "Toy Rotation": Don’t put everything out at once. Keep a few bins tucked away and swap them every few weeks. It makes old toys feel brand new again.
• Save the Sentimental Stuff: For those "forever" toys like first teddies or special books, tuck them into a sturdy keepsake box at the top of a closet so they stay safe and clean.
• Share the Love: Once you’ve given everything a quick wipe-down, donate your "pre-loved" toys to charity, sell them for a little extra cash, or pass them on to friends.

Less mess, more room to actually play!


At the end of the day, decluttering isn't about getting rid of everything you love; it’s about making your home feel like a sanctuary again.

If you’ve cleared the decks but still find yourself tripping over bulky seasonal gear, sentimental keepsakes, or "someday" furniture, self-storage is a total game-changer. Tucking those extra items into a secure unit keeps them safe and out of the way, giving you back your floor space and your sanity.

After all, a little extra room is the best gift you can give yourself this year!

How to Keep Your Belongings Safe While You Travel

 

Whether you’re heading interstate, overseas, or just trying to get away for a few weeks, holiday travel usually means leaving your home and your belongings unattended. Taking a few simple steps now can help ensure everything is safe and secure while you’re away.

For many Aussies and Kiwis, the Christmas and New Year period is about switching off, spending time with family, and making the most of the summer weather. The last thing you want while you’re away is to worry about what you left behind.

Think about what you’re leaving at home.

Before you lock the door and head off, take a quick walk through your home, garage and any outdoor areas. You might be surprised by how many valuable or sentimental items are left sitting in easy-to-access spaces or potentially exposed to the elements of summer.

Items to consider:

• Bicycles and scooters
• Surfboards, camping and sporting gear
• Tools and equipment that are stored in the garage
• Important documents, keepsakes or collectables
• Electronics you won’t need while you’re away

Why garages and sheds could be at risk

Garages and sheds often become catch-all storage areas, especially at this time of year. Unfortunately, they are also some of the easiest spaces to access if your home is left unattended.

During the holiday period, when routines change, and homes sit empty longer than usual, keeping fewer valuable items at home can provide peace of mind while you're away.

A simple, secure alternative

Self Storage can be a practical solution when you’re travelling. It allows you to temporarily move valuable or bulky items out of your home, knowing they’re stored in a secure, monitored environment.

It’s also flexible whether you need short-term storage or a little longer. While summer plans unfold, you can choose what works for you.

Before you go

A little preparation goes a long way:

• Pack and label items clearly so everything is easy to find when you return
• Choosing the right unit size and storing items neatly can save space and cost
• Keep a small inventory of what you’ve stored for peace of mind
• Store smart by placing frequently accessed items near the front

These small steps make it easier to enjoy your break without second-guessing what you left behind.

Holiday travel should be about relaxing, not stressing over security or clutter. By taking a few simple precautions and storing what you don’t need at home, you can head off knowing your belongings are safe. You can also come back to a home that feels just as welcoming as when you left.

From all of us at Storage King, we hope you have a safe, relaxed and enjoyable festive season!

A Clutter-Free Christmas

Christmas is a wonderfully festive season, but it can also be one of the most stressful. In the weeks leading up to December 25, the to-do list grows fast, with shopping and wrapping gifts, decorating the house, planning the menu, cooking, cleaning, and tackling all the little tasks in between. It’s no surprise that the lead-up to Christmas Day can feel overwhelming.

The good news? With a bit of planning and some smart storage solutions, you can enjoy a calm, organised, clutter-free Christmas.

Here’s how to make more space for what truly matters this season.

1. Start With a Pre-Christmas Declutter

Before the tree goes up and the decorations come out, spend some time clearing away items you no longer use. Sort through toys, clothes, books, and household items that have accumulated throughout the year. Donate what’s still in good condition, recycle what you can, and free up space before the festive rush begins.

This quick reset not only reduces visual clutter—it makes decorating and hosting guests much easier.

2. Make Space for Guests

If you're hosting Christmas lunch, holiday visitors, or overnight guests, freeing up space is essential. Old furniture, bulky sports gear, seasonal clothing, and rarely used items can take up valuable space.

This is where self storage becomes a game-changer.

By temporarily storing items you don’t need during the holiday period, you can create space for extra seating, a dining setup, kids’ play areas, or a comfortable spare room. Once the festivities are over, your belongings can return home, and everything goes back to normal, well, minus the clutter.

3. Create a Dedicated Wrapping & Gift Area

Instead of gift wrap, scissors, and presents ending up all over the house, set up a small gift-wrapping station. This could be a desk, a section of the dining table, or even a corner in the spare room.

Keeping everything in one place:

• saves time
• reduces stress
• prevents last-minute chaos

When Christmas is done, pack these items into a labelled box. Seasonal items like this are perfect for self-storage; they stay protected, organised, and out of the way until next year.

4. Store Seasonal Decorations the Smart Way

Christmas decorations are beautiful during December… and bulky the rest of the year. Instead of stuffing them into cupboards or taking up prime storage space at home, consider a small self-storage unit.

With a storage space, you can:

• keep all decorations neatly packed and organised
• prevent damage to items from being crushed or stored in damp areas
• quickly locate everything next Christmas
• free up precious cupboard and garage space

5. Keep High-Traffic Areas Clear

During the holidays, your home becomes busier with more people, food, gifts, and movement: clear hallways, entryways, and living areas of anything that’s not essential.

Items like unused furniture, extra boxes, out-of-season gear, hobby equipment, and kids’ toys
can be stored off-site for a few weeks or months.

This keeps your home open, welcoming, and functional during the festive season.

6. Prepare for New Gifts (Especially for Kids!)

Christmas often means a fresh wave of new toys, gadgets, clothes, and household items. Planning for incoming gifts helps prevent clutter before it begins.

A great strategy:

• Declutter before Christmas
• Move older or outgrown items into storage
• Keep sentimental items safe without overcrowding your home

Storage King's storage units are perfect for holding onto keepsakes or valuable items you don’t want to part with but don’t need every day.

7. Enjoy a Stress-Free, Spacious Christmas

A clutter-free environment makes Christmas feel calmer, happier, and more enjoyable. You’ll have more room to celebrate, cook, relax, and connect with the people you love.

Whether you need a little extra space for the festive season or long-term storage for items that don’t fit at home anymore, Storage King gives you flexibility, convenience, and peace of mind. It’s an easy, affordable way to declutter your home and make for a stress-free Christmas.

Electronics Storage Tips: How to Store TVs, Laptops & Gadgets Safely

 

Whether you’re packing away a spare TV, an old laptop, or the family gaming console, storing electronics properly can make all the difference between a quick setup later and an expensive replacement. Australia’s climate, with its heat, humidity, and temperature swings, can be tough on tech, so taking the time to prepare your devices correctly is essential. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to safely store your electronics, keeping them clean, dry, and ready to use when you need them again.

Prepare Your Electronics for Storage

• Back up all important data. For devices such as laptops, external drives or tablets, make sure you have a separate copy of all important files. A physical backup + cloud backup is best. Handling data now means less risk later.
• Remove batteries. If the device uses removable batteries (AA/AAA, rechargeable packs, etc.), remove them before storage to avoid corrosion or leakage. For built-in batteries (like in many laptops/tablets), refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Clean and dry your electronics before storing. Dust, residues and moisture can degrade components over time. Use a microfiber cloth; for vents, use compressed air if available. Make sure the device is dry and free of visible contaminants.
• Label devices, chargers, and accessories clearly for easy identification later.
• Take photos of cable setups or configurations before disconnecting anything it helps during reassembly.

Packing Your Devices the Right Way

Boxes and Packing items

• You can use the original packaging (boxes + foam inserts). These are usually optimised for protection. If not, at Storage King, we sell a wide range of boxes and packaging materials that suit many devices, including LCD cartons, E-Waste cartons, tissue paper, bubble wrap and fragile tape.
• Use well-cushioned and sturdy boxes.
• Add desiccant packets (silica gel) inside boxes to help manage moisture.
• Avoid stacking heavy items on top of delicate electronics to prevent screen damage, warping, etc.

Choose a good storage environment

• Temperature: electronics prefer stable, moderate temperatures. Avoid extremes of heat or cold.
• Humidity: keep relative humidity in a safe range (for many components ~30-50%) to avoid corrosion or moisture damage.
• Elevate off the floor: This helps avoid water damage from leaks or floods. Place on pallets or shelves.
• Avoid locations with large temperature/humidity swings (e.g., garages, attics) unless they are climate-controlled.

Protect against static electricity and dust:

• Sensitive components (motherboards, graphics cards, hard drives) should be in anti-static bags.
• Cover devices or put them into sealed containers to keep dust and pests out.

Organise cables/accessories:

Keep cords, chargers, and peripherals paired and labelled. Store them in small bags or compartments within the box.

Long-Term Storage & Maintenance Tips


Periodic inspection:

Check on your stored electronics every few months. Ensure the environment is still stable, batteries (if built-in) are okay, there is no visible damage, dust, moisture or pest infestation.

For devices with built-in batteries:

If you can’t remove the battery (e.g., many laptops or tablets), store it at around 40-60% charge and recharge periodically if possible. Some manufacturers recommend this.

Keep documentation handy:

Store warranty info, serial numbers, manuals, and a record of what’s in each box (and where). This helps for retrieval, repair, and resale.

Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t store electronics directly on the floor, as this can be a risk of flooding or dust accumulation.

Don’t assume plastic bins alone are sufficient if the environment has temperature/humidity swings, as plastic can trap moisture.

Don’t leave batteries in devices long-term if removable; leakage is a common damage source.


Prohibited Storage Items

The self-storage agreement contains a list of items prohibited from self-storage. Here are some of those prohibited items:

• Lithium-powered devices: E-scooters, e-bikes, and similar items containing modified, altered, or damaged lithium batteries are not permitted.
• Excessive batteries: Storing a quantity of batteries that exceeds personal use is prohibited.
• Hazardous materials: Items that are hazardous, flammable, explosive, or environmentally harmful are not allowed.

Properly storing your electronics isn’t just about saving space; it’s about protecting your investment. With a little preparation and the right environment, you can keep your devices safe from Australia’s heat, humidity, and dust. Whether you’re storing items for a few months or a few years, following these steps will help ensure everything powers up perfectly when you need it again.

Bev and Barry say ‘Stuff It - Live More’ in new Storage King platform, via Ogilvy

 

 

Meet Bev and Barry - the loveable stars of Storage King's category-breaking new ‘Stuff It – Live More’ brand platform, set to transform the way Aussies and Kiwis look at storage.

Developed by Ogilvy and live this week, ‘Stuff It – Live More’ launches with a campaign that shows how storage can be more than a transactional, last-minute solution, and instead a powerful life tool that creates space for what truly matters. It will be seen from this week in Australia and New Zealand across TV, YouTube, OOH, Radio, online and instore.

Ogilvy Creative Director Shaun Branagan said the new brand platform and supporting campaign positions Storage King as an enabler of a fuller life, rather than just a provider of space. Using Bev and Barry in the new campaign executions was an opportunity to “show real characters with main character energy living out their dreams unconstrained by their ‘stuff’,” he explained.

“This was a great opportunity to create a new distinctive brand platform for Storage King for the long term. Taking a humorous approach meant we could shift from the rational to the emotional and create a campaign that avoids the familiar tropes and cliches of the category.

“We’re showing people what can happen when they have space to move - to travel, for a side hustle, to move house, to start a new business. Secure in the knowledge that their stuff is stored safely and securely.”

The campaign is the first developed by Ogilvy since being appointed by Storage King earlier this year. The agency was tasked with creating a distinctive brand platform and tone of voice for company, which is the most recognised and searched self-storage brand in Australia and New Zealand.

Storage King Group Marketing Manager Tony Skallias, said “For many people, belongings accumulated over the years become far more than mere possessions—they often define and honour our past. Yet, these cherished items, while important, can also weigh us down and prevent us from embracing new opportunities and moving forward in life. That’s why we’ve positioned Storage King as the brand that guides and empowers you to see and enjoy life on the other side of storage”

"The “Stuff It. Live More.” platform operates on several meaningful levels. At its core, it captures that critical tipping point—when the frustration with accumulated clutter reaches its peak and we decide, “Enough is enough; I’m ready for change.” This phrase not only reflects that decisive moment of empowerment and control, but it also cleverly plays on the everyday act of storing, said Skallias.

Credits
Client – Storage King
Group Marketing Manager: Tony Skallias
Communications Designer: Lachlan Strada
Group General Manager: Nikki Lawson

Creative and Strategy - Ogilvy
Production: Hogarth
Production Company: Division
Sound: Rumble Studios
Brand Strategy - Purposemade
Website & digital - Digitoro & North Parade
Media - Gilbert Media & Neo Mediaworld

Spring Cleaning & Decluttering: Tips to Refresh Your Home (and Make Space for What Matters)

 

Spring has officially sprung! The air feels fresh, the days are longer, and it's the perfect chance to reset your living space. A deep clean and a good declutter not only make your home feel lighter, but also give you more room to enjoy life and entertain. And if you’re running out of space? That’s where self-storage can step in, giving you a safe, secure place for the things you want to keep, but don’t need every day.

Let's look at some simple, practical tips to get you started.

Start Small with Decluttering

• One space at a time. Choose a room or even just one cupboard to begin with. Breaking it into smaller jobs helps you stay motivated.
• Keep, donate, store. Use three piles: what you’ll keep at home, what you can donate or recycle, and what you’d like to store for later use.
• Think about your lifestyle. Seasonal items like camping gear, sports equipment, or bulky winter clothing may not need to take up prime space at home - they’re perfect for storage.

Make a Plan That Works for You

• Write a list. From wiping skirting boards to sorting the garage, having it all written down helps keep track.
• Prepare your tools. Gather all your cleaning supplies, such as cloths, sprays, a mop, and a vacuum, before you begin. Having everything on hand saves time and helps you stay focused.
• Prioritise problem areas. Tackle the spaces that will make the most significant difference to your daily life first.
• Share the load. If you live with family or housemates, assigning tasks makes spring cleaning faster when it’s a team effort.

Clean From Top to Bottom

• Dust and wipe. Start with higher areas like light fittings, shelves, and curtains, then work your way down to floors.
• Organise before buying. Sometimes, simply moving furniture or rearranging storage solutions gives a room a new lease of life without extra expense.
• Refresh with light. Open windows, let the sun in, and add indoor plants for an instant mood lift.

When Home Storage Isn’t Enough

Even after decluttering, some items are worth holding on to, just not in your everyday space. That’s where using self-storage at Storage King can help.

• Seasonal gear. Store decorations, ski equipment, camping gear, or sporting items until you need them.
• Family treasures. Keep heirlooms, photo albums, or furniture safe without cluttering your home.
• Business extras. Running a side hustle? Store stock, supplies, or documents securely off-site.

Storage King gives you flexibility: easy access when you need something, and peace of mind knowing your belongings are protected.

Keep It Going

• 10-minute tidy. A quick daily routine keeps clutter from building up again.
• Monthly reset. Choose one space each month to review and either donate, recycle, or move items into storage as needed.
• Enjoy the results. A clean, organised home feels calmer, lighter, and ready for a fresh season ahead.

Spring cleaning is about more than just dusting shelves; it is about creating space for the life you want to live. By decluttering, reorganising, and using self-storage when needed, you’ll enjoy a home that feels fresher, more functional, and stress-free.

Moving with Pets: Essential Tips for Dogs and Cats

Moving house is stressful enough on its own, but adding a cat or dog into the mix can make things even more challenging. Pets are creatures of habit, and a sudden change in their environment can leave them feeling anxious or unsettled. From unfamiliar smells and new surroundings to the chaos of packing boxes, it’s no wonder our furry friends can struggle during a move. The good news is that with a bit of preparation and care, you can make the process smoother for both you and your pet. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dog or cat feels safe and comfortable throughout the move.

Before the Big Day

Update tags and microchip

Moving can make pets unpredictable, and your cat or dog might try to explore the new neighbourhood. Double-check that their ID tag is up to date, and be sure to update their microchip with your new address so you can relax knowing they’re safe if they do get out.

Pet transport

Cats should travel in a secure, well-ventilated carrier to stay safe in the car. Give them space, familiar bedding, and a few treats to make it cosy. Introducing the carrier before moving day and covering it with a blanket can help reduce anxiety and make it feel like a safe hiding spot.

When travelling with a dog, use a sturdy, well-ventilated crate or a dog seatbelt harness to keep your pet secure in the car. Make sure they have access to water and take regular breaks for bathroom stops and short walks. Bring along familiar toys or a blanket to help them feel comfortable, and avoid feeding them right before the journey to prevent car sickness. A calm, prepared approach can make the trip less stressful for both you and your dog.

Visit the vet

Make sure your furry friend is up to date on vaccinations and is as healthy as possible. Speak to your vet about any concerns you may have. It would also be a good idea to research vets close to your new home, just in case you need a vet sooner than expected.

If your pet already suffers from anxiety, you can speak to your Vet about pheromone therapy before moving or even anti-anxiety medication if required.

Boxes and packing

Cats love boxes and dogs enjoy cosy spaces because they make them feel safe, but too many new boxes at once in their space can be overwhelming. Introduce empty boxes a few weeks before moving so your pets have time to get comfortable.

You can order your boxes and other packing materials for your move online from our Box Shop. At Storage King, we offer a wide range of moving and packing items, available individually or in budget-friendly moving packs.

Leave your pet items until the final boxes

Move your cat and dog’s bedding and belongings last to keep them comfortable. On moving day, consider keeping your pet in a quiet room to reduce stress. Amid the chaos, make time to comfort them, spend a few moments together, play soothing sounds to mask the noise of packing, and take your dog for a walk to help them stay calm.

After the Move: Helping Your Pet Adjust

Clean the new house

Getting your new home ready for your pet can make the move much smoother. Since cats are territorial, give the space a good clean to remove any lingering scents from previous pets.

Create a safe space for your cat and dog

Not only will your pet be dealing with an unfamiliar space in your new home, but there will also be a lot of commotion as furniture and boxes get carried around. Try to make some space as comfortable as possible by using familiar bedding and toys.

Cat house arrest

Cats should be ideally confined to the house for at least 3 weeks to allow them to get used to the new environment. Arrange the furniture so that they can look out and observe their surroundings day and night. After the period of confinement, if they are to go outside, allow them to go out for short periods. A good tip is not to feed them prior to letting them out, so they will more readily come in for their food.

Marking territory, one sniff at a time

Taking your dog for a walk after moving into a new home is important for both their comfort and safety. A walk helps them explore and get familiar with their new surroundings, reducing anxiety and helping them feel more secure. It also gives them a chance to relieve stress, burn off energy, and establish new routines. Walking in the neighbourhood allows your dog to mark their new territory, meet neighbours, and adjust to the sights, sounds, and smells of their new environment, making the transition smoother for everyone.

Hello neighbour

To get to know your neighbours and to foster a good friendship, it is a good idea to ask them to let you know if your dog is creating any disturbance while you are out. That way, you can avoid any neighbourhood disputes and all be happy in your new home.



Now it’s time for both you and your pets to settle in and make the space your own. Remember, it’s normal if your dog or cat takes a little while to adjust; patience is key. If you find your new place feeling a bit crowded, consider decluttering and storing extra items to create a more comfortable environment for everyone.