Category: News & Tips

Moving abroad is an exhilarating adventure filled with new experiences and opportunities. However, amidst the excitement, the logistics of relocating your belongings can be a daunting task.

From deciding what to do with your possessions to navigating the complexities of international shipping, there are numerous challenges to overcome. Fortunately, self-storage facilities offer a convenient solution to support you throughout the process.

What to do with your stuff when you move abroad?

One of the first questions that arise when planning a move abroad is what to do with your belongings. While some items may accompany you on your journey, others may need to be stored temporarily or permanently.

This is where self-storage comes into play. Self-storage facilities offer secure units in various sizes, allowing you to store your belongings safely until you’re ready to retrieve them. Whether you’re downsizing or simply need a place to keep your possessions during the transition period, self-storage offers flexibility and peace of mind.

How do I move my belongings overseas from the UK?

Moving your belongings overseas from the UK requires careful planning and coordination. International shipping logistics can be complex, involving customs regulations, paperwork, and transportation arrangements.

To streamline the process, consider utilizing the services of a reputable moving company that specializes in international relocations.

These professionals can handle every aspect of the move, from packing and shipping to navigating customs procedures. Additionally, self-storage can be a valuable resource during this time, allowing you to store your belongings securely until they are ready to be shipped overseas.

How do I get rid of things before moving overseas?

Before embarking on your international adventure, it’s essential to declutter and streamline your belongings. This not only reduces the cost and complexity of moving but also ensures that you’re only bringing the essentials with you. Start by sorting through your possessions and identifying items that you no longer need or use. You can then donate, sell, or dispose of these items accordingly. Self-storage can also be useful during this process, providing a temporary home for belongings that you’re undecided about or intend to sell before your move.

In conclusion, moving abroad is an exciting journey that comes with its fair share of challenges. However, with proper planning and the support of self-storage facilities, you can navigate the process smoothly and confidently. Whether you’re storing your belongings temporarily during the transition period or seeking a long-term storage solution, self-storage offers the flexibility and security you need. So, embrace the adventure of moving abroad knowing that your possessions are safe and secure in self-storage.

Looking for reliable self-storage solutions in Bristol? Check out our range of storage units here and embark on your international adventure with peace of mind.

Introduction

As the summer months roll in, many of us find ourselves with an abundance of seasonal items, plans for home renovations, or the need to temporarily store our belongings. This is where renting a storage unit can come to the rescue. Whether you’re a college student returning home for the summer, planning a vacation, or simply looking to declutter your living spaces, a storage unit can provide the ideal solution. In this blog post, we’ll explore five compelling reasons why it makes sense to hire a storage unit during the summer months. Let’s dive in!

1. Seasonal Storage

Summer is synonymous with outdoor activities and equipment. From camping gear to sports equipment and patio furniture, these items tend to take up a significant amount of space. Renting a storage unit allows you to keep these seasonal belongings organized and out of the way during the off-season. By doing so, you can free up valuable space in your home or garage, ensuring a clutter-free environment while your favorite summer items await their next adventure.

2. Moving or Renovating

Summer is a popular time for moving to a new home or embarking on home renovation projects. If you find yourself in either of these situations, renting a storage unit becomes particularly useful. It provides a temporary storage solution for your belongings until you’re ready to move them back into your newly renovated or relocated space. With a storage unit, you can ensure the safety and security of your possessions during the transition, allowing for a smoother and more organized moving or renovation experience.

3. College Students

For college students, summer often means returning home to spend time with family and friends. However, dorm rooms and shared apartments don’t always provide sufficient storage space for all their belongings during the break. This is where a storage unit proves invaluable. Renting a storage unit offers a secure location to store furniture, textbooks, and personal items, ensuring peace of mind while students enjoy their summer vacation. It also saves the hassle and expense of transporting belongings back and forth between home and campus every semester.

4. Travel or Vacation

Summer is the perfect time for travel and extended vacations. However, leaving your home unattended with all your valuable possessions can be a cause for concern. Renting a storage unit before you embark on your summer adventure allows you to keep your belongings safe and secure while you’re away. It eliminates the worry of potential theft or damage to your possessions and provides a reliable alternative to relying on friends or family to watch over your belongings. With a storage unit, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing your cherished items are protected.

5. Decluttering

Summer often inspires a desire to declutter and organize living spaces. It’s the ideal season to create a more spacious and tidy environment. If you find yourself overwhelmed with belongings you’re not ready to part with but don’t need immediate access to, renting a storage unit can be a game-changer. It allows you to temporarily store items you wish to keep but aren’t currently using. By doing so, you can effectively declutter your home, enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Conclusion

Renting a storage unit during the summer months offers numerous benefits for individuals and families alike. Whether you’re looking to store seasonal items, facilitate a move or renovation, provide storage for college students, secure your belongings while you travel, or declutter your living spaces, a storage unit can be the perfect solution. By taking advantage of this convenient option, you can enjoy a more organized and stress-free summer.

For the best storage solution in Bristol contact us now

Introduction

Self-storage facilities have become increasingly popular over the years, providing individuals with a convenient and secure solution to store their belongings. Whether you need extra space for seasonal items, hobbies, or collections, self-storage units offer a versatile solution. In this article, we will explore the best ways to utilize self-storage for organizing and safeguarding your seasonal belongings, pursuing your hobbies, and managing your valuable collections. From effective organization techniques to climate-controlled units, we’ll provide you with valuable tips to maximize the benefits of self-storage for all your storage needs.

Organising Seasonal Items

As the seasons change, so does the need for specific items. Instead of cluttering your home with off-season belongings, self-storage can be a game-changer. Here are some effective ways to use self-storage for organizing seasonal items:

1. Categorize and label: Before storing your seasonal items, categorize them into sections such as winter, spring, summer, and fall. Use clear plastic bins and label each box for easy identification when you need them.

2. Rotate your belongings: Utilise self-storage to create a rotating system. As the seasons change, swap out the items you need and store the ones you don’t. This ensures your home remains clutter-free while providing easy access to the necessary items.

3. Protect against damage: Opt for climate-controlled storage units, especially for delicate or temperature-sensitive items like clothing, electronics, or furniture. Climate-controlled units maintain stable temperature and humidity levels, preventing damage caused by extreme weather conditions.

Pursuing Hobbies:

Self-storage units can also serve as a dedicated space for pursuing hobbies, giving you the freedom to explore your passions without the limitations of limited living space. Here’s how you can make the most of self-storage for your hobbies:

1. Equipment and supplies: Hobbies often require specialized equipment and supplies that can take up significant space. By renting a self-storage unit, you can keep all your hobby-related items organized and readily accessible. From sports equipment to crafting supplies, a dedicated storage space will provide the room you need.

2. Workstation setup: Some hobbies require a dedicated workspace. Transform a corner of your self-storage unit into a mini-studio or workshop. Install shelves, tables, and organization systems to create an efficient and inspiring environment for pursuing your hobbies.

3. Collaborative spaces: If you share a hobby or interest with others, consider renting a larger self-storage unit with friends or fellow enthusiasts. This way, you can create a collaborative space where you can work on projects together, share resources, and foster a sense of community.

Managing Collections:

Collections, whether they are rare books, vinyl records, or antique items, require proper care and storage. Self-storage facilities can provide the ideal solution for preserving and displaying your valued collections:

1. Secure and controlled environment: Bristol Self Storage Units offer a secure and controlled environment, protecting your collections from theft, damage, or deterioration caused by exposure to sunlight, humidity, or temperature fluctuations.

2. Display and organization: Utilize shelving units, display cases, or custom storage solutions to showcase your collections within your storage unit. Implement proper organization techniques, such as cataloging and labeling, to ensure easy access and maintenance.

3. Expansion opportunities: Collections tend to grow over time. Self-storage allows you the flexibility to expand your collection without compromising your living space. You can easily rent additional units as needed, accommodating your growing collection while keeping it organized and easily accessible.

Conclusion:

Self-storage facilities offer invaluable benefits for storing seasonal items, pursuing hobbies, and managing collections. By utilizing effective organization techniques

Are you looking for ways to improve your home without breaking the bank? You don’t have to spend a fortune to spruce up your living space. Here are ten simple home improvement ideas that can be done for under £10.

Add Some New Cushions

Adding new cushions is an easy way to give your living space a new look. You can choose cushions in different sizes, shapes, and colors to create a dynamic mix. To save even more money, you can buy cushion covers and stuff them with inexpensive stuffing. Alternatively, you can recycle old clothes or fabrics to create cushion covers.

Hang Some Artwork

Hanging artwork is an excellent way to add personality to your home. You can choose a mix of prints, photographs, or posters that reflect your style. A simple trick to make your artwork look more expensive is to add a matting around the picture. You can create your own matting using cardboard or foam board.

Rearrange Your Furniture

Rearranging furniture is a simple way to create a fresh look in your home. You can try different configurations until you find the one that suits your needs. You can also experiment with different focal points, such as a fireplace, window, or artwork.

Paint a Feature Wall

Painting a feature wall is an easy way to add color to your room without painting the entire room. You can choose a color that complements your existing decor or a bold accent color to make a statement. When selecting paint, consider using a low-VOC or eco-friendly paint to reduce your carbon footprint.

Add Some Indoor Plants

Indoor plants are a great way to bring life to your home. You can choose plants that thrive in low light, such as spider plants or peace lilies, or plants that need more sunlight, such as succulents or cacti. To keep your plants healthy, make sure to choose the right potting soil, provide the right amount of water, and place them in the right location.

Create a Gallery Wall

Creating a gallery wall is an easy way to showcase your favorite photos, prints, or posters. You can mix and match frames and artwork to create an eclectic look. You can also experiment with different arrangements, such as a symmetrical grid or a random cluster.

Install Some Shelving

Installing shelving is an excellent way to add storage space and display your favorite items. You can choose floating shelves, corner shelves, or bookshelves to suit your needs. To save even more money, you can create your own shelves using reclaimed wood or recycled materials.

Update Your Lighting

Updating your lighting is an easy way to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. You can choose different lightbulbs to create different moods, such as warm yellow or cool white. You can also add a lampshade to create a soft and diffused light. A simple DIY pendant light can be created using a basket or a wire cage.

Add Some New Curtains

Adding new curtains is an easy way to add color and texture to your windows. You can choose curtains in different fabrics, such as cotton, linen, or velvet. You can also experiment with different patterns, such as stripes or floral prints. To save money, you can make your own curtains using fabric remnants or bed sheets.

Create a DIY Photo Display

Creating a DIY photo display is an easy way to showcase your favorite memories. You can use string and pegs to hang your photos or postcards. You can also create a photo collage using old magazines or books. Another fun idea is to create a photo wall mural using removable wallpaper or stickers.

In conclusion, there are many simple home improvement ideas that can be done for under £10. With a little creativity and imagination, you can transform your living space without spending a fortune.

Self-storage units can be a great solution for decluttering your home and creating more space for the things that matter. But with so many options to choose from and a limited amount of space, it can be difficult to know where to start.

Here are some tips and tricks for maximising your self-storage space and making the most out of your unit.

1 – Plan ahead

Before you start filling your unit, take a step back and plan out what you need to store.
Make a list of items that you need to keep, but don’t have room for in your home. This will help you determine the size of the unit you need and ensure that you have enough space for everything.

2 – Sort and declutter

Before you start packing your unit, go through your things and sort them into categories. Keep, donate, or sell items that you no longer need or use.
This will not only free up space in your home, but also in your storage unit.

3 – Use clear plastic containers

Clear plastic containers are a great way to organize and protect your items. They are stackable and allow you to see what’s inside without having to open them.
Plus, they can be used to store a variety of items, from clothes and linens to books and papers.

4 – Label your boxes

Once your items are packed, label each box with a detailed description of what’s inside. This will make it easier to find what you’re looking for when you need it.

5 – Make use of vertical space

When it comes to storage, vertical space is often overlooked. Use shelves, stackable plastic containers, or furniture with storage space to make the most of the space in your unit.

6 – Use furniture covers

If you’re storing furniture, make sure to cover it with furniture covers. This will protect your furniture from dust, moisture, and other potential damage.

7 – Climate control

If you’re storing items that are sensitive to temperature and humidity, consider a climate-controlled unit. This will help protect your items from damage caused by extreme temperatures and humidity.

8 – Keep an Inventory

Keep a detailed inventory of what you have stored in your unit. This will make it easier to know what you have, where it is, and when you might need it.

9 – Visit your unit regularly

Don’t let your unit become a forgotten space. Visit your unit regularly to check on your items and make sure everything is in good condition.

10 – Use a professional moving and storage company

If you’re having trouble decluttering and organising your things, consider using a professional moving and storage company.
They can help you sort and declutter your things, pack your unit, and even provide climate-controlled storage options. If you just need a van, speak to us!

By following these tips and tricks, you can make the most of your self-storage space and effectively declutter your home. Whether you’re downsizing, moving, or just need a little extra space, a self-storage unit can be a great solution for keeping your things safe and organized.

With the help of Stashed Away, you will have a great experience when it comes to decluttering your home and planning your moving belongings to a unit.

Moving home or office stuff needs to be done precisely. Some measurements have to be taken to ensure items stay intact and there will be no loss in the end. The precaution begins when you start packing things. You have to understand and differentiate items as per their categories or sensitivity. Fragile pieces have to be placed, secured and wrapped finely. When moving belongings out of premises or house, there is an entire procedure you have to admit and follow wisely.

If this is your first time backing things alone, don’t worry in this blog, we’ll help you pack your items. We will discuss what are the things you have to invest in to make your moving simple. Further, talk about the right storage unit and, last but not least, which storage unit would be a great choice for storing your furniture, documents, and other home or office items. Without any further ado, let’s quickly get into the right way to pack items for Self Storage Near You.

Invest in Bubble-Wrap
Items that are highly sensitive to moisture should be wrapped in a plastic container or wrap. Also, buying bubble wrap make you secure your items that may break during transit. Wrapping them with bubble wrap creates a softcover, and they don’t break in bumps on the road.

Dust-Out Belongings Before Packing
If you’re going out for a long time or storing items as you don’t need them often, make sure you dust-out debris and dirt to keep them in great condition. It is recommended not to put clothes, wood, or leather without a thorough cleaning first.

Keep Fragile & Heavy Items Low
You need to be extra cautious when storing fragile and heavy items. When moving to a self-storage unit, there may be breaks and bumps on the road, which can break your items as heavy items fall on the lower fragile product. Always wrap fragile & heavy items with bubble wrap and place them beneath other lightweight belongings.

Rent a Secured Unit
Once you determine how to pack stuff, you have to find a unit offering amenities such as temperature-controlled units, CCTV surveillance, password-locked units, and so on. However, the charges may vary as per the amenities you get for your storage. But, these are absolutely a must to ensure the protection of your belongings.

Find Something Nearby
The next important thing is to find a Self Storage Near You. This is the most important factor. With this, you save your transit costs and check your stuff anytime without having to go to travel too far.

Know something sooner than later! Follow these little yet precise guides to have an easy moving. Now the thing is, how do you find an upright service provider? Well, if you’re in Bristol, Stashed Away is a go-to name for reliable and genuine service at a competitive price. Visit the website and find out more about us!

When you rent a place to store your personal or official documents, you’re not paying for a space but for privacy protection. It is a must and should be considered foremost. You need a service that offers the management policy and helps your organization meet legal and regulatory compliance requirements and the security of documents. A true self-storage facility aid foster solid recordkeeping practices.

Padlock protection isn’t enough for securing documents, especially in an era of identity theft and business fraud. Therefore you need to find one that offers you robust security for sheer satisfaction. An on-site file storage solution helps keep your files safe from internal and external risks. They’re placed inside a unit that offers you 24-hour CCTV surveillance, temperature-controlled unit, fire detection, and suppression technology, and many more. And so the price varies depending on the facility a File Centre offers in Bristol. However, well-equipped and trusted units are best to expect safety for your credentials.

Value Beats Cost: 
When seeking quality service, always choose value over cost. You will pay a few pounds more but receive top-notch quality and access to complete file management services, including disaster management, pest-controlled unit, temperature-controlled unit, high-end protection, and surveillance. These values with a unit go beyond just storing your document behind a door.

Security Matters:
Organizations and businesses have sensitive information and other important documents they don’t want to be seen or accessed by anyone, or they have ample space at setting to store them safely. In this situation, renting a self-storage facility becomes helpful. By paying a small amount, you can protect financial records, personal & professional information, and confidential data. A file center offers all the necessary facilities one may look for in order to protect their documents.

Remember, not all file storage center is the same. Keep the factor in your consideration to get a better quality service and protection of data as you expected or beyond. Pick a trusted and reputable service provider near your office to avoid extra charges over transit. Also, you can visit the place whenever you want to. Other than this, search for a high-tech File Centre in Bristol to avoid nuisance. Get in touch with Stashed Away to avail quality service at the best competitive price. Have a look at our website and learn more about the services we’re offering; a comprehensive self-storage facility for all the people, including professionals and students.

Easter is quick drawing closer, and that implies you’ll before long get fourteen days of occasion time to play with.
Make the most of them and get some quality family time in with a speedy break. From long stretch arrangements to staycation motivation, these ten Easter occasion thoughts will suit each spending plan. Travelsupermarket.com has collated some great ideas worth checking out:

1. Long stretch occasions

If you have any desire to get away from the British climate and get an impact of daylight, why not book an occasion to a long stretch objective like the Caribbean or Mexico?

Easter is the ideal chance to visit the Caribbean as December through April will in general be the driest and the weather conditions is somewhat cooler making the hotness more charming. Additionally, Mexico’s dry season is among November and April, so Easter is an extraordinary chance to visit.

Elective long stretch choices incorporate Dubai, the Maldives or Goa.

2. UK city breaks

If you have any desire to remain nearer to home, a UK city break is an extraordinary chance for youngsters to look into the country they live in. Also, an outing to the capital will tick off everything from history to Easter-themed fun.

You could visit renowned sights, for example, Buckingham Palace, go on an outing on the London Eye and check out the galleries. Furthermore, you don’t need to burn through heaps of cash on attractions either as a considerable lot of the galleries, like the Easter exercises at the Museum of London, have free exercises on offer over special times of year for kids.

There are likewise various Easter egg chases after youngsters to partake in across the city. Attempt Hampton Court Palace or Ham House to keep little chocoholics engaged.

3. City breaks abroad

Assuming you would like to take a city break abroad, the old works of art, for example, New York, Rome and Paris have a lot of exercises to keep the two guardians and youngsters engaged.

Rome, specifically, gets an Easter buzz about it, on account of the Pope’s Via Crucis mass. The notoriety of the occasion is a sight in itself, however, it implies the city gets incredibly occupied over the Easter occasion.

For other Easter customs, pick a Spanish city. They have parades in abundance over Easter week. Madrid is a top pick for this as the capital is calmer than urban areas like Barcelona and Seville. On top of that inn, costs start from a sensible £40 every night per room.

4. Travels

For something totally unique, why not go on a family journey? While this may not seem like the clearest family choice, many boats are youngsters cordial with exercises, for example, play regions, rock-climbing dividers and games rooms.

Playtime is sprinkled between activity-pressed shore days, where you can investigate urban communities, venture into wildernesses or unwind by the ocean.

Travels won’t cost the earth, by the same token. Seven evenings cruising the Med can impair you just £540pp.

5. UK bungalow breaks

On the off chance that you like the incomparable British outside, why not lease a bungalow? Wherever from Scotland toward the South West proposition field withdraws on the doorstep of nature.

Houses and self-cooking properties are a splendid adaptable choice as they permit you to remain in a similar spot as the entirety of the family (and, surprisingly, split the expense with bigger gatherings of loved ones), to eat what you need when you need, and a few will even allow you to take the family canine.

In the event that you choose to book a bungalow break, you could take full advantage of having your own space by setting up an Easter egg chase after the youngsters in the nursery or around the house.

6. Manor occasions

Also, to get a good deal on food and drink, and be more adaptable about what you do when abroad, manor occasions are a decent choice for family gatherings.

The Algarve, the Canary Island and Spain’s south coast start to swelter up in April with temperatures stretching around 19C – ideal for a little spring sun!

7. Occasion parks

UK occasion stops currently offer everything from spas for guardians to outside exercises for the youngsters as well as amusement in the night. What’s more, there’s an extraordinary selection of choices remembering parks for the ocean side or in the open country.

Over Easter, occasional exercises, for example, egg enriching, egg chases and hat-making will quite often be on to keep youngsters engaged as well, so investigate our vacation parks page to track down an enticing arrangement.

8. Ship breaks

Assuming you might want to go on an outing to an objective like France, Spain or the Netherlands, think about going by ship.

This will permit you and your family to keep away from stuff and seating charges, you have the opportunity of driving off in your own vehicle at the opposite side and kids will cherish the experience of going by boat.

From Portsmouth, you can get to Caen and Bilbao for a deal, while Rotterdam can be reached from Harwich in Essex. Investigate our ship bargains page for additional.

9. Theater breaks

Assuming your youngsters love everything sensational, a performance center break makes certain to intrigue them. Shows on over Easter incorporate the Lion King, Aladdin, Matilda The Musical and School of Rock.

Assuming you have little youngsters, remember to check which early show exhibitions are on offer – you could possibly score less expensive last-minute tickets!

10. Days out

At last, assuming you are glad to remain at home this Easter yet at the same time need to get making the rounds, why not go on the youngsters on a day outing to one of the UK’s numerous attractions?

Guardians can set aside cash by visiting MoneySavingExpert’s school occasion bargains page where there are as of now two-for-one proposals on a scope of amusement park and attractions. Investigate and be enlivened.

A new year, a new project. Do you ever wanted a brand new shed in your garden but didn’t get your head around it or don’t know where to start? You don’t necessarily need to be a DIY enthusiast to build this fantastic and solid garden shed. This video by YouTuber Colin Furze is not just very helpful but also very entertaining to watch. Check it out:

2021 has been for many another tough year, dominated by the seemingly never-ending pandemic. With the latest Omicron-variant, it feels more than ever frustrated. However, the good news is with a few simple steps it’s easy to become more happy and positive, something we probably all can do with in the new year. Here are five tips you can try to increase your happiness levels. Best of all they are all scientifically proven.

1. Exercise: 7 Minutes Could Be Enough

A quick 7-minute workout a day can have great effects as mentioned in The New York Times. That’s a workout any of us can fit into our schedules.

2. Spend More Time With Friends/Family

Staying in touch with friends and family is one of the top five regrets of the dying.

If you want more evidence that time with friends is beneficial for you, research proves it can make you happier right now, too.

Social time is highly valuable when it comes to improving our happiness, even for introverts. Several studies have found that time spent with friends and family makes a big difference to how happy we feel.

3. Help Others

100 hours per year (or two hours per week) is the optimal time we should dedicate to helping others in order to enrich our lives.

4. Practice Smiling: Reduce Pain, Improve Mood, Think Better

Smiling can make us feel better, but it’s more effective when we back it up with positive thoughts, according to this study:

Smiling is one way to reduce the distress caused by an upsetting situation. Psychologists call this the facial feedback hypothesis. Even forcing a smile when we don’t feel like it is enough to lift our mood slightly (this is one example of embodied cognition).

5. Meditate: Rewire Your Brain for Happiness

Meditation is often touted as an important habit for improving focus, clarity, and attention span, as well as helping to keep you calm. It turns out it’s also useful for improving your happiness.

Meditation literally clears your mind and calms you down, it’s been often proven to be the single most effective way to live a happier life. According to Achor, meditation can actually make you happier long-term.

Source: Inc.com, Jeff Haden

Christmas is just around the corner and now it’s a great time to start decorating your house for the festive season. But why not going DIY this year with these simple but genius Christmas decorations ideas? You do not just save money, you also do something good for the environment by using recycled materials. Here are 12 inspirational ideas to get the house ready for the best season of the year.

The recent headlines of significant increases in energy bills in combination with an incoming winter, is not something we are looking forward to. However, with a few simple steps and a bit of creativity, it is possible to make some savings on the energy bills. In this article, posted earlier this year we summarised “10 simple ways to save money”.

Saving money on your energy bill isn’t that difficult if you follow a few very simple steps. Amazingly, each one of the tips below can save up to £211 a year. That’s equal to over 2 months of free energy for the average household.

Wash your clothes at 30 degrees
Washing your clothes at 30 degrees can save up to £7 a year on your energy bills.

Dry your clothes on a washing line or a clothes horse
If the weather’s good and you have space, dry your clothes on a washing line, or a clothes horse, to save £30 a year.

Only boil the amount of water you need
You can save up to £6 a year by only boiling the water you need when using the kettle.

Turn the thermostat down a notch
Turning your thermostat down by one degree can save you £80 a year.

Turn your appliances off standby
Turn your appliances off by the switch to save £35 a year.

Turn off the lights
You could save £13 off your annual energy bill if you switch off the lights when you leave the room.

Shower for a minute less
Cut your shower time by one minute and save £7 a year on your energy bills.

Wash up in a bowl
Don’t keep the tap running. Use a bowl of water to do your washing up and save £25 a year.

Fill up your washing machine when doing a wash
If you can, wait until you have enough dirty clothes before putting a wash in. You could save £5 on your yearly energy bills.

Swap your bath time for a 5 minute shower
And finally, you’ll save £10 on your energy bills for every 2 people that choose to have a 5 minute shower instead of a bath.

Source: Energy Saving Trust

The bad news is that many local councils (including Bristol) have suspended the collection of green bins. However, the good news is that you can use this to your advantage by disposing of your garden waste in a number of creative and useful ways.

The website boundless.co.uk has come up with some great ways to make the most of your garden waste.

1. Create a compost heap

Perhaps the most obvious solution to the green bin problem is to create your own compost heap. Leaving your garden and kitchen waste to decay over a matter of days, weeks and months generates rich, organic compost that can be beneficial to your soil and plants. As well as helping things to grow, it acts as an effective mulch for minimising water loss, and can also provide a home for woodlice, worms and even grass snakes.

Once it’s ready, your compost can be used to nurture any number of plants and vegetables. If you’re looking for some inspiration on what to grow this spring, perennials such as bear’s breeches and red-hot pokers are great if you want something that’s low maintenance. And carrots, radishes, lettuces, peas and beans also require minimum work, and should be ready in time for summer.

2. Make supports for your plants

If you’re looking for supports for your climbing plants, have a rummage through your garden waste for twiggy branches and long, sturdy stems. These will do the job without you having to order bamboo canes or expensive steel supports.

3. Moisturise your lawn

As previously mentioned, a compost heap is a great way to dispose of grass cuttings. But if the weather is getting warmer, they can also be used to sprinkle over your lawn, keeping it nice and moist.

Another tip for disposing of grass cuttings is to spread some out across the bare soil patches under your trees. The cuttings will eventually decompose, injecting a rich, organic matter into the soil.

4. Make a home for wildlife

Not all gardening waste is good for composting – if you have a lot of woody branches and stems, these can be hard to break down. Don’t worry, though, as they’re perfect for creating a habitat for those little garden visitors.

Beetles in particular love this kind of environment. And seeing as they’re so fond of eating slugs, aphids and the like, that could save you money on pest control.

5. Stop cats from doing their business in your garden

Speaking of pests, if next door’s cat has taken to using your garden as a makeshift loo, then it might be time to do something about it.

Much like humans, cats like having somewhere comfortable to coopy down, so if you have any bare soil, they’re almost certain to home in on it. This is where those holly or conifer clippings come in handy, their prickly edges providing anything but a comfy toilet break for moggy. They’re slow to compost, too, meaning your solution will be a lasting one.

Source: boundless.co.uk

As summer is here and we all spend more time outdoors, wouldn’t it be nice to create some space in the garden? The web is full of inspirational ideas and DIY projects to create lovely garden utilities. This simple and spacious storage bench by “I Like To Make Stuff” is worth having a go at. It doesn’t required a huge amount of materials and can be done in a day.

If you ever require a bit more space, just get in touch. We can offer storage solutions from 11 sq ft. all the way up to 100 sq ft.