What Size Self-Storage Unit Do I Need?

Ian Horowitz • May 14, 2025

When choosing a self-storage unit, one of the toughest decisions you have to make is figuring out what size you require. You don’t want to overpay for the space you don’t need. At the same time, you certainly don’t want to run out of space.


Most people are unable to accurately determine the exact square footage required to store their items. This is largely because there are too many factors that play a role in this. In this blog, we have created a complete guide to help you arrive at the right decision. There’s a complete checklist to prevent you from guessing or settling for the wrong size unit.


Factors That Determine Your Storage Size


Here’s the list of factors that determine what storage size you should go ahead with:


1. Quantity of Stuff: Do you have a lot of items to store or just one closet, or maybe a room or two? If possible, the best way to begin the process is by putting all the items you want to store into one room. Stack things and move them around until you find the best way to save space. Once you put all these items into one room, you will be able to measure how much space you require.


2. Adding to the Storage Over Time: If there’s a chance you’ll be adding to your storage unit, it’s always best to have some extra space. It can be challenging to move storage units, so avoid putting yourself in that position. Unless you’re sure that you won’t be adding items to your unit, it is recommended that you size up to give yourself some extra space for storage.


3. Types of Items You’re Storing: If you’re storing boxes, you’re in a great position, as they are easy to stack and measure. But when it comes to storing a couch, a mirror, and some tools and furniture, these things likely aren’t stackable and will require some space to make sure they don’t get damaged while in storage. Consider keeping some extra room when you have these items.


Size Options Available at Square Space Storage


Now that you have a better idea of your storage requirements, you will be easily able to assess what storage size you need. Here are the different sizes available at Square Space Storage:


(a)5’ x 5’


Offering 25 square feet of space, this size is perfect for those who don’t need a ton of storage or someone who wants to store household clutter, seasonal items, and small furniture.


What it holds:


  • Small furniture or appliances
  • Office supplies, business records, and tax files
  • Garden tools, camping gear, or other seasonal decor and equipment
  • Old toys and off-season clothing


(b) 5’ x 10’


The 5x10, 50-square-foot storage units are highly sought after due to their versatility and functionality. Comparable to the size of a large shed, these units are ideal for storing items from a small apartment or the complete furnishings of a bedroom or office.


What it holds:


  • Business materials, files, or inventory
  • Seasonal decorations and gear like lawn mowers, snowboards, and camping equipment
  • Bed sets, dressers, and side tables
  • Art pieces, musical instruments, and medium-sized appliances


(c) 10’ x 10’


The 10x10, 100-square-foot storage units are the perfect size for larger furniture or equipment—not too big, not too small. Comparable to half a standard garage, these units can easily accommodate the belongings of a one-bedroom home.


What it holds:


  • Furniture like sofas, tables, dressers, mattress sets, and coffee or nightstands
  • Electronics and musical instruments
  • Seasonal items such as garden tools, bicycles, skis, and camping gear
  • Office items including desks, chairs, and shelving


(d) 10’ x 15’


A favorite among small families, the 10x15 storage units offer 150 square feet of space, roughly equivalent to a spacious bedroom. These units are perfect for accommodating the belongings of a two-bedroom home.


What it holds:


  • Furniture like sofas, tables, dressers, mattress sets, and coffee or nightstands
  • Electronics and musical instruments
  • Seasonal items such as garden tools, bicycles, skis, and camping gear
  • Office items including desks, chairs, and shelving


(e) 10’ x 20’


The 10x20 storage units, offering 200 square feet of space, are ideal if you’re transitioning between homes, preparing your house for sale, or undertaking a major renovation. Comparable to a small garage, these units can easily hold the belongings of a three- or four-bedroom house.


What it holds:


  • Large household items like sectional sofas, dining tables, mattress sets, dressers, and entertainment centers
  • Major appliances, including washers, dryers, and refrigerators
  • Big musical instruments and electronics, such as pianos and televisions
  • Outdoor gear such as lawnmowers, grills, bicycles, skis, and camping equipment
  • Business inventory and office furnishings like desks, chairs, and shelving units


(f)10’ x 30’


For those in need of significant storage space, 10x30 units provide 300 square feet, similar to a large garage. These units are spacious enough to accommodate the belongings of a four- or five-bedroom house.


What it holds:


  • Items that are difficult to pack in boxes
  • Oversized furniture like sectional sofas, entertainment centers, and bedroom or dining sets
  • Major appliances, including washers, dryers, and refrigerators
  • Outdoor gear such as lawnmowers, grills, bicycles, and small boats or canoes
  • Business inventory and office furnishings such as desks, chairs, and shelving


Conclusion


When it comes to choosing the right storage size, factors such as the quantity of items, adding to the storage over time, and the types of items you wish to store play a crucial role. Based on these factors, you can determine what storage size you truly require.


At Square Space Storage, our self-storage units offer safe and secure facilities. We provide climate-controlled storage units, standard storage units, covered parking, as well as outdoor RV and boat parking.


Contact us today to learn more about our facilities and what we have to offer you.

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