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How Big Is A 5x5 Storage Unit? Everything You Need To Know

A 5x5 storage unit is the smallest unit available at many self-storage facilities. So, how big is a 5x5 storage unit, really? What can you fit in a 5x5 storage unit? And what are they usually used for? The good news is that if you’re considering renting a storage unit, you’re being proactive about decluttering and simplifying your home and life, and that’s a great thing. 

A 5x5 storage unit adds up to 25 square feet, which is roughly the size of a standard closet. You’d be surprised just how much you can fit in one, and renting one can be delightfully inexpensive and convenient if you know where to look. 

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What can really fit in a 5x5 storage unit?

If you’re asking, “how big is a 5x5 storage unit?” chances are you’re wondering just how much can fit inside. Here are some everyday items people store in a 5x5 storage unit:

  • Twin or Full mattress

  • Sports equipment

  • Seasonal home decorations (i.e., Christmas trees and lights)

  • Dining room furniture

  • Lawn equipment

  • Dresser or wardrobe

  • Small furniture items

  • A few boxes or storage containers

A quick note on mattresses that comes up often: you can sometimes squeeze a queen-size mattress into a 5x5 storage unit, depending on how flexible it is, but you’ll have to store it at an angle. This is not a very efficient use of storage space, so you’re better off bumping up to a 5x10 storage unit if you need to store a queen-sized mattress or bed.

What are some common uses for a 5x5 storage unit? 

Storing seasonal items

Storage units are perfect for storing items you only need access to for part of the year. For example, during part of the year, you might store bulky coats and winter clothing, winter sports equipment like skis and sleds, and a Christmas tree or decorations. Once winter rolls around, you might take those items out of storage and store warm-weather items you won’t need for a while, like gardening equipment, pool, and swimming accessories, etc. 

Similarly, parents of college students often swear by self-storage units. While the kids are home from summer, you can load up everything from their dorm into the storage unit. Once the new semester starts, you can move it right back into the dorms.

Organizing and decluttering your home

How often have you thought how nice it would be if you just had one more closet? There are many reasons you might not need immediate access to belongings but might want to hang on to them—perhaps you’re saving things to pass down to other family members. For example, maybe you don’t have room to store items at home but want to sell them. Or you might want to keep baby items like cribs, strollers, and boxes of baby clothes that children have outgrown but might be useful in the future. 

Storing collections

Serious collectors require a lot of space. Whether it’s vinyl records, books, pottery, or comics, it’s easy to find yourself running out of room. A 5x5 storage unit’s size is perfect for backup storage space so you can keep your home tidy without sacrificing part of your collection.

Organizing small businesses

Small businesses need a place to store things like inventory, files and archives, spare equipment, and more. Sometimes, your office or retail storefront just doesn’t have the room. Upgrading to a larger space may not be in the plans right now. If that’s the case, consider the ever-handy 5x5 storage space! Nowadays, many businesses are run entirely from home with storage space assistance. Crafters running online stores, for example, may store all of their stock in a 5x5 storage unit, then pull it out when it’s time to ship it to customers. Best of all, since it’s a business expense, you can typically claim it as a tax write-off.

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How can I find a 5x5 storage unit near me?

Start your search with BuxBear Storage

Look to see if there’s a BuxBear storage facility in your area. BuxBear combines modern design, top-notch security features, and impeccable customer service to offer the best 5x5 units available at competitive rates. BuxBear facilities offer gated access, drive-up to all ground-floor units, and well-lit interiors. Our on-site staff has worked hard to earn a reputation for being friendly and knowledgeable. If you’re near a BuxBear, get in touch—we’ll find the perfect unit for you. 

Know the amenities you need

Know what you need from your unit and what you don’t. Consider which features you’re looking for, including:

  • Convenience of location

  • Whether or not there’s climate control

  • Number of locks

  • Security features (security guards, video surveillance, gated perimeter, etc.)

  • Access hours (do you have 24/7 access, or can you only access your unit during certain days/hours?)

  • Contract terms (long-term or short-term)

  • Ways to pay (online, auto-pay)

Know what you need and what you don’t, and you’ll be able to find the perfect package.

Use search engines to do some homework

Search for storage facilities in your area using search engines or storage search platforms, and make a shortlist of facilities that seem to offer the options you need. Check online for discounts or promotions. Go visit the facility in person! Don’t skip that step. You’ll get a sense of the actual quality of the storage company and its staff instead of taking their word for it. 

How big is a 5x5 storage unit? The final word


Just how big is a 5x5 storage unit? Well, maybe bigger than you think. Finding that extra space to store what needs organizing can be a liberating feeling. It’s a load off. You can fit a lot more in a 5x5 space than what meets the eye—on top of storing your belongings; you can also put away your worries over finding space for all the stuff that seems to accumulate over the years. Renting storage just might be the first step to a more organized you.

Visit us at your local BuxBear Storage location to secure a climate-controlled storage unit for all your storage needs! And give us a call with any storage-related questions. We’re happy to help!