How to Choose the Right Storage Unit Size for Your Needs

A Guide To Choosing The Right Storage Unit For You.

Choosing the right storage unit size can feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to balance what you need to store with the amount of space available. Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or simply decluttering, the last thing you want is to pay for more space than necessary, or worse, find yourself cramming items into a unit that's too small.

At Stirling Storage Solutions, we aim to make this decision easy. In this guide, we'll take you through how to choose the right storage unit size to fit your specific needs. We’ll also provide practical examples to help you visualise what can fit into different unit sizes.

Why Choosing the Right Size Matters

Selecting the right size unit is not just about fitting your belongings—it’s also about ensuring ease of access, cost efficiency, and safeguarding your possessions from damage.

Cost efficiency: Larger units naturally cost more. By selecting the correct size, you can avoid overpaying for unnecessary space.
Organisation: When you’ve chosen the right unit size, there’s enough room to neatly arrange your belongings. This makes it easier to access items without the risk of damaging them.
Future needs: You might want to leave room for more items you’ll store in the future. If you expect to add more items over time, opting for a slightly larger unit can be a wise move.

Let’s explore the common sizes and what they can accommodate to help you make an informed decision.

Small Storage Units: 25 to 50 sq. ft.

Ideal for: Small furniture, boxes, seasonal items, and personal belongings

Small storage units are perfect if you need to store a few items and don’t require much space. These units typically come in sizes ranging from 25 sq. ft. to 50 sq. ft. and are comparable to the size of a garden shed.

Example of what fits in a 25 sq. ft. unit:

1–2 small pieces of furniture like a chair or small desk
A few boxes of personal items, books, or clothes
Seasonal decorations
Suitcases and luggage

A 25 sq. ft. unit is often used for temporary storage during a move or for seasonal items such as winter coats, holiday decorations, or sports equipment like skis and bikes.

Example of what fits in a 50 sq. ft. unit:

Contents of a small room or a studio flat
Small sofa, a mattress, and a couple of chairs
A washing machine or dishwasher
Several boxes of household items

A 50 sq. ft. unit can accommodate the contents of a small one-bedroom flat or studio. It’s a popular choice for students storing their dorm room essentials over summer break or for individuals who are decluttering their homes.

Medium Storage Units: 75 to 100 sq. ft.

Ideal for: Two-bedroom flat or small house contents

Medium-sized units provide a good balance between space and affordability, especially if you need to store furniture, appliances, and several boxes. This size range works well for people moving between homes or undergoing renovations.

Example of what fits in a 75 sq. ft. unit:

Contents of a one-bedroom flat
Two or three large furniture items (sofa, armchairs, bed)
Medium-sized appliances (fridge, washing machine)
Multiple boxes of books, kitchenware, or clothes

If you're redecorating your home or moving into temporary accommodation, a 75 sq. ft. unit can hold most of the essential furnishings and items from a one-bedroom flat, giving you enough space to store things comfortably without stacking them too high.

Example of what fits in a 100 sq. ft. unit:

Contents of a two-bedroom flat or small house
Larger appliances (fridge, washer, dryer)
Several pieces of furniture (sofa, beds, wardrobes)
Outdoor furniture or gardening tools
Around 15–20 boxes of miscellaneous items

A 100 sq. ft. unit is versatile, offering enough space for both home contents and outdoor equipment. If you’re between homes or need temporary storage during a major renovation, this unit provides ample room for both large and small items.

Large Storage Units: 150 to 200 sq. ft.

Ideal for: Three to four-bedroom house contents

When it comes to large units, you’re generally looking at storing the contents of a family home. These units offer enough space for larger items like pianos, bulky furniture, and boxes from several rooms.

Example of what fits in a 150 sq. ft. unit:

Contents of a three-bedroom house
Large pieces of furniture (sofas, beds, dining table)
Large kitchen appliances
Outdoor equipment (BBQ, garden tools, patio furniture)
Dozens of boxes with household goods

For families moving houses or businesses storing office equipment, a 150 sq. ft. unit is ideal. It provides more than enough space for everything to be stored without feeling cramped.

Example of what fits in a 200 sq. ft. unit:

Contents of a four-bedroom house
Multiple large furniture items, including beds, wardrobes, large appliances
Outdoor furniture, lawnmowers, and gardening equipment
Home office supplies, desks, filing cabinets
Around 30–40 boxes with personal or household belongings

A 200 sq. ft. unit is a great choice for those who need maximum storage capacity. It can comfortably store the contents of a family home or even a small business.

Specialty Storage Units: Larger than 200 sq. ft.

For larger projects like commercial storage, or storing the contents of a large home, units larger than 200 sq. ft. may be required. These units can hold the equivalent of a five-bedroom house or more, making them perfect for large-scale storage needs.

Example of what fits in a 250+ sq. ft. unit:

Entire contents of a large five-bedroom house
Commercial storage items such as inventory, office equipment
Large furniture items, outdoor equipment, and dozens of boxes

These units are ideal for people undergoing long-term relocations or businesses that need to store inventory or excess office supplies.

Tips for Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size

Now that we’ve covered the different unit sizes and what they can accommodate, here are some practical tips to help you decide:

Take inventory: Make a list of everything you plan to store. Estimate how much space each item will take up. This will give you a clearer idea of the required size.
Use the “stack and store” method: Keep in mind that items can be stacked to maximise space. However, fragile items or heavy objects should be stored carefully at ground level.
Leave space for accessibility: If you need to access your belongings regularly, consider choosing a slightly larger unit so you can leave walkways or space between boxes and furniture.
Consider future needs: If you anticipate needing more storage space in the future, it might be worth getting a slightly larger unit than you currently require.
Ask for advice: If you’re still unsure, feel free to ask for guidance. At Stirling Storage Solutions, we’re happy to provide personalised advice based on your specific needs.

Choosing the right storage unit size is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth storage experience. By understanding your needs and knowing the size of the unit you require, you can avoid unnecessary costs and make sure your belongings are safe and accessible.

For more information on the storage units we offer or to book a tour of our Stirling facility, feel free to get in touch with our team today!

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How to Protect and Store Your Belongings in the Heat

By LN105773 • August 21, 2025

Summer Storage Safety When summer rolls into Stirling, it brings longer days, brighter skies and a fair bit of heat. While Scotland isn't exactly known for blistering temperatures, we've all seen how unpredictable summer weather can be. A few sunny days may feel welcome, but they can cause trouble for items left in storage if you're not prepared. At Stirling Storage Solutions, we're here to make sure your belongings stay safe, dry, and protected all year round. In this post, we're focusing on how to store your items safely during warmer months. Whether you're storing electronics, furniture, clothing, or personal keepsakes, a few simple precautions can save you stress and money. 1. The Hidden Risk of Heat in Storage Even in Scotland, summer heat can have a surprising effect on storage units especially if they're poorly ventilated or improperly packed. While a heatwave might not last long, it can still warp wood, fade fabrics, damage electronics, and create ideal conditions for mould and mildew. What's more, many people use storage units in summer when moving home, renovating, or making space for guests. That means delicate items are often left unattended during the hottest weeks of the year. Without the right care, that's a recipe for damage. 2. Packing Smart for Summer Weather The first line of defence against heat related damage is how you pack. Here's how to do it right. Use breathable materials Avoid plastic bags and cling film when packing items like clothing, linens, or books. These can trap moisture, leading to mildew. Opt instead for cotton sheets or acid free paper to wrap items. Boxes should be sturdy, clean, and ideally made from corrugated cardboard which allows for air circulation. Avoid overpacking Overstuffed boxes reduce airflow and can become unstable in heat. Leave small gaps for ventilation and make sure everything is packed loosely enough to allow the contents to ‘breathe'. Label boxes clearly Heat can make ink run and adhesives melt. Use high quality labels and a permanent marker, and place labels on the side not the top so you can read them even if boxes are stacked. Keep it elevated Place your boxes on pallets or shelves, not directly on the floor. This helps with airflow and adds a layer of protection in case of condensation or temperature shifts near the ground. 3. How to Store Electronics Safely Electronics are particularly vulnerable in summer. Heat can cause batteries to leak, plastics to warp, and internal components to fail. Remove batteries from all devices to avoid corrosion. Back up your data before storing computers or hard drives. Use original packaging where possible, especially for laptops, tablets, and cameras. Wrap items in anti static bubble wrap, not standard plastic wrap, which can cause overheating. Avoid stacking electronics, as pressure and lack of ventilation can lead to damage. At Stirling Storage Solutions, our indoor units are designed with insulation and airflow in mind, keeping temperature fluctuations to a minimum. 4. Caring for Furniture in the Heat Wooden furniture can expand, crack or warp in heat and humidity. Leather may dry out and crack. Fabrics can fade or develop mould if left damp. To protect your pieces: Clean everything before storage. Dust and oils can worsen under heat. Disassemble where possible this reduces stress on joints and makes it easier to pack. Use breathable covers, not plastic sheeting. Cotton or linen sheets work well to protect from dust without trapping moisture. Apply furniture polish or wax to wooden surfaces to help seal out moisture. Use silica gel packs or other desiccants inside drawers or containers to absorb humidity. Our team at Stirling Storage Solutions can provide packing materials designed specifically for summer storage just ask when you reserve your unit. 5. Protecting Fabrics, Clothes, and Keepsakes Textiles can be tricky in summer. High temperatures combined with trapped moisture are a fast track to mildew, musty smells, and discolouration. Here's how to avoid it: Wash and dry all clothing and linens thoroughly before packing. Avoid vacuum sealing in summer, as trapped air and moisture can cause damage over time. Use wardrobe boxes for delicate or hanging items to preserve shape and airflow. Store keepsakes like photographs or documents in acid free, archival quality boxes. Remember just because something looks clean doesn't mean it's ready for storage. Summer heat amplifies odours and stains, so prep is key. 6. What Stirling Storage Solutions Offers At Stirling Storage Solutions, we take storage seriously especially in the warmer months. Here's how we help protect your belongings from the summer heat: Ventilated Containers Units All our units are housed in well ventilated containers designed to reduce heat build up and prevent condensation. On site Support Our team is here to offer packing advice, inspect your unit, or help you upgrade if your needs change. Flexible Access Need to check on something mid storage? No problem. With convenient access hours, you can keep an eye on your valuables without the hassle. 7. Quick Summer Storage Checklist Here's a quick round up of key tips for summer storage: Pack with breathable, heat friendly materials Elevate boxes off the floor Avoid storing wet or unclean items Don't wrap items in plastic Remove batteries from electronics Cover furniture with cotton sheets Use desiccants to combat humidity Storing your belongings safely in summer doesn't have to be stressful especially when you've got the right support. At Stirling Storage Solutions, we've helped thousands of people protect what matters most, through every season and every kind of Scottish weather. If you're planning a move, clearing space, or just want peace of mind for your valuables, get in touch with our team. We'll help you choose the right unit, use the best materials, and pack like a pro.