Storing Pet Supplies You Don’t Need Every Season

Pet ownership comes with plenty of extras like beds, bowls, crates, toys, seasonal outfits, and more. While some items are used every day, others only come out when the weather changes or during special occasions. Instead of cramming everything into your closets, a storage unit can help you rotate supplies by season and keep your home more organized.

Why Seasonal Storage Works for Pet Owners

Most pets don’t need the same gear year round. Dogs may wear sweaters in the winter, while cats might enjoy cooling mats in the summer. Crates, carriers, or extra litter boxes often sit unused until travel or a new situation arises. Storing these items off-site helps free up space at home while making it easy to grab them when needed. For multi-pet households, this extra breathing room is even more valuable.

What to Store (and What to Keep at Home)

Everyday supplies like food, grooming brushes, and a few favorite toys should stay at home. But anything used occasionally is a great candidate for storage. Examples include:

• Winter coats, booties, or heated beds once warmer months arrive
• Cooling mats, travel bowls, or portable kennels
• Extra carriers, litter boxes, or playpens not currently in rotation
• Bulkier gear like agility equipment or spare crates

By rotating items in and out with the seasons, you’ll keep your home tidy without giving up supplies you still need at certain times of the year.

How to Pack Pet Gear for Storage

Before storing, wash and dry all fabrics thoroughly to prevent odors or mold. Bedding should go into breathable cotton bags or fabric covers rather than sealed plastic, which can trap moisture. Toys, bowls, and carriers fit well into plastic bins with secure lids that keep dust and pests away. If you’re storing scratching posts or climbing towers, disassemble them to save space and keep parts together in labeled bags.

Choosing the Right Unit Size

Most pet owners don’t need a large storage unit just for pet supplies. A 5×5 unit—about the size of a walk-in closet—can easily hold a few bins, crates, and seasonal gear. If you’re combining pet supplies with other household storage, you might consider a 5×10 for more flexibility.

Climate Control Can Help

Items like beds, carriers, or toys often have fabric or foam components. Climate-controlled storage is a great option for keeping these materials in good condition, especially if you live in an area with hot summers or damp winters.

Organized and Ready When You Need It

By keeping your pet’s gear in a storage unit, you’ll know exactly where everything is the next time the seasons shift or travel plans pop up. Instead of digging through overflowing closets, you’ll have neatly packed bins ready to rotate back into your home. It’s a simple solution that keeps your pet’s belongings fresh, organized, and ready for every season.