How to Choose the Right Storage Size for a One-Bedroom Apartment

What size storage unit do you need for a one-bedroom apartment?

For most one-bedroom apartments, a 5×15 or 10×10 storage unit is a good choice for storing furniture, appliances, boxes, and other household belongings during a move. A 5×10 storage unit may work for decluttering or a smaller, more minimalist apartment, but it may not have enough space for everything in a typical one-bedroom home.

The right size depends on how much you own, the size of your furniture, and whether you need room to access your belongings while they are in storage.

Key Takeaways

• 5×10: Best for decluttering, smaller loads, or lighter storage needs.
• 5×15: A good option for the contents of a small one-bedroom apartment.
• 10×10: Better for a larger one-bedroom apartment with bulky furniture.
• Disassemble furniture whenever possible to maximize available space.
• Stack boxes carefully with heavier items on the bottom.
• Choose a larger unit if you need to walk around or access belongings regularly.

Storage Unit Sizes for a One-Bedroom Apartment

When choosing between a 5×10, 5×15, or 10×10 storage unit, consider both the amount of stuff you have and how efficiently you can pack it.

Storage capacity varies based on the unit’s ceiling height, furniture dimensions, packing method, and the amount of space required between items.

Is a 5×10 Storage Unit Big Enough for a One-Bedroom Apartment?

A 5×10 storage unit provides about 50 square feet of floor space and is generally better suited to decluttering, small renovation projects, or a smaller amount of household belongings.

A 5×10 may hold items such as:

• Twin or full mattress
• Bicycle
• Small furniture
• Shelving
• Household items
• Stacked moving boxes

If your furniture is minimalist or can be disassembled, you may be able to fit more into a 5×10. As a general packing estimate, a 5×10 can hold about 20 large moving boxes, although the actual capacity depends on how the boxes and furniture are arranged.

Is a 5×15 Storage Unit Big Enough for a One-Bedroom Apartment?

A 5×15 storage unit is a popular choice for storing the contents of a small one-bedroom apartment during a move. With 75 square feet of floor space and, for example, an 8-foot ceiling, that provides approximately 600 cubic feet of storage volume.

A 5×15 can accommodate:

• Bedroom furniture
• Living room furniture
• Small appliances
• Shelving
• Household items
• Moving boxes

With efficient packing, a 5×15 can hold around 30 large moving boxes in addition to furniture and other belongings.

Is a 10×10 Storage Unit Big Enough for a One-Bedroom Apartment?

A 10×10 storage unit provides 100 square feet of floor space and can be a better choice for a larger one-bedroom apartment with bulky furniture.

This size may be appropriate if you have:

• A large bed and bedroom furniture
• Sofa or sectional
• Dining table and chairs
• Large appliances
• Bookcases or shelving
• Numerous moving boxes
• Bulky or difficult-to-disassemble furniture

A 10×10 can hold around 40 large moving boxes, although the actual amount will depend on the dimensions of your belongings and how efficiently you pack.

How to Save Space in a Storage Unit

Efficient packing can help you get more out of a smaller storage unit and potentially avoid paying for unnecessary space.

Try these storage hacks:

• Disassemble furniture: Take apart bed frames, tables, shelving, and other furniture whenever possible.
• Store large items vertically: Stand frames, mirrors, and other appropriate items on their ends.
• Use empty spaces: Place smaller items inside larger pieces of furniture when practical.
• Choose similar-sized boxes: Uniform boxes are easier to stack and make better use of available space.
• Stack strategically: Put heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter items on top.
• Leave access space: If you will need to retrieve items, create a narrow walkway rather than packing everything wall-to-wall.
• Label every box: Clearly labeled boxes make it easier to find belongings later.
• Create a storage map: Keep a simple list or diagram showing where major items are located.

Should You Choose a Larger or Smaller Storage Unit?

If your belongings fall between two storage-unit sizes, consider how often you will need to access them.

Choose the larger unit if:

• You want room to walk around.
• You expect to add more belongings.
• Your furniture is large or difficult to disassemble.
• You will regularly need to retrieve items.
• You want easier access to items toward the back of the unit.

Choose the smaller unit if:

• You are storing fewer belongings.
• You are comfortable packing items tightly.
• You will rarely access the unit.
• Saving on monthly rental costs is a priority.
• Most of your furniture can be disassembled.

Bottom Line

For most one-bedroom apartment moves, a 5×15 or 10×10 storage unit provides a practical balance of space and capacity. A 5×10 may be enough for a minimalist apartment or decluttering project, while a 10×10 provides additional floor space for bulky furniture and larger households.

When choosing a storage unit, inventory your belongings first and consider both the amount of space they occupy and how you plan to access them.

FAQs

What is the best storage unit size for a one-bedroom apartment?

A 5×15 or 10×10 storage unit is typically a good starting point for a one-bedroom apartment. A 5×15 works well for a smaller apartment, while a 10×10 provides more floor space for bulky furniture.

Can a 5×10 storage unit fit a one-bedroom apartment?

A 5×10 may fit the belongings of a smaller or minimalist one-bedroom apartment, particularly when furniture is disassembled and items are packed efficiently. For a typical fully furnished one-bedroom, a 5×15 or 10×10 may be a better choice.

How many boxes fit in a 5×10 storage unit?

A 5×10 can hold about 20 large moving boxes as a general estimate. The actual number depends on box dimensions, furniture, and how the unit is packed.

How many boxes fit in a 5×15 storage unit?

A 5×15 can hold around 30 large moving boxes, depending on the amount of furniture and other belongings stored in the unit.

How many boxes fit in a 10×10 storage unit?

A 10×10 can hold around 40 large moving boxes, although furniture and other large items will reduce the number of boxes that can fit.

Should I get a 5×15 or 10×10 storage unit?

Choose a 5×15 if you need more storage length and have a relatively compact collection of belongings. Choose a 10×10 if you have bulky furniture or want more floor space and easier access to your belongings.

How do I know what storage unit size I need?

Make an inventory of your furniture, appliances, boxes, and other belongings. Consider their dimensions, whether they can be disassembled, and whether you need room to access them. If you are between sizes, choosing the larger unit can make loading and retrieving items easier.