Storing Kids’ Gear Between School Years

Kids collect a surprising amount of stuff throughout the school year.  Things like sports uniforms, art projects, backpacks and science fair boards can take up a lot of space. When summer rolls around, all of it can start to overwhelm closets, garages, or playrooms. A storage unit offers a practical way to keep everything organized until the new school year begins.

Sort and Declutter First

Before packing everything away, go through your child’s school supplies and gear. Recycle old papers, donate clothes they’ve outgrown, and set aside items worth keeping. This step helps reduce clutter and ensures you’re only storing what’s truly useful.

Store Sports Equipment

Sports gear can be especially bulky. From cleats and soccer balls to hockey pads and baseball bats, athletic equipment quickly takes over a garage. Keep it together in a storage unit so it’s easy to grab when the season starts again. Label bins or use a sports equipment rack to stay organized.

Keep Art and Projects Safe

Not every drawing or project will make it to the fridge forever, but some are worth holding onto. Store poster boards, 3D models, and craft supplies in flat bins or clear containers. This keeps them from getting bent, crushed, or misplaced.

Organize Backpacks and Supplies

Backpacks, lunchboxes, and pencil cases pile up quickly. Place them in a labeled bin with leftover notebooks, rulers, and calculators so they’re ready for next year. Having everything in one place saves you from buying duplicates when school starts again. Just make sure you clean them first and make sure there’s no leftover crumbs.

Make Room at Home

By moving out-of-season uniforms, bulky sports gear, and extra school supplies, you free up valuable space in your closets and garage. That space can be used for summer gear like camping equipment, pool toys, or bicycles.

The Bottom Line

A storage unit is an easy solution for families looking to stay organized between school years. With bins labeled for sports, art, and supplies, you’ll always know where everything is when school starts again. And by keeping gear out of the house during the off-season, you reduce clutter and make more space for summer fun.

(Public Storage rental agreements prohibit storing property with a total value over $5,000 per unit.)