How to Winterize Your Cabin with Self Storage in Big Bear

Your cabin deserves to rest easy this winter, and so do you.

Whether you visit Big Bear occasionally or own a vacation rental, preparing your cabin for winter is key to avoiding damage and clutter.

And one of the smartest moves? Using self storage to keep your off-season items safe, dry, and out of the way.

With indoor and drive-up storage options available, you can winterize your space the right way, without cramming your closets or worrying about snow damage.

Why Winterizing Your Big Bear Cabin Matters

Big Bear winters are no joke: snowstorms, icy winds, freezing pipes, they all put pressure on your cabin and everything inside it.

Here’s what can happen if you don’t prep early:

• 🔧 Burst pipes and water damage
• 🧼 Mold, mildew, or musty smells
• 🐭 Rodent infestations in cluttered spaces
• 💸 Expensive spring repairs or replacements

Winterizing helps prevent all that, and self storage makes it even easier.

Step-by-Step: How to Winterize Your Cabin

1. Shut Off & Drain Your Plumbing

• Turn off the main water valve
• Open all faucets and drain pipes
• Use RV antifreeze in toilets and sink traps

2. Unplug and Store Electronics

• Avoid damage from moisture or power surges
• Store TVs, speakers, routers, and more in an indoor unit for added protection

3. Seal Off Entry Points

• Close flues, vents, and gaps around windows and doors
• Keeps cold air (and critters) out

4. Clear the Outdoors

• Bring in patio furniture, BBQs, yard tools, and decor
• Store in a drive-up or indoor unit depending on your access needs

5. Remove Food and Fabrics from Inside

• Take home all perishables and pantry items
• Store linens, towels, or extra bedding in sealed containers off-site

What to Store (and Why)

Whether you're staying full-time or leaving for the season, here are common items homeowners safely store each winter:

• Outdoor furniture & grills – Prevent rust, water damage, and cracking
• Summer sports gear – Bikes, kayaks, inflatables, fishing gear
• Power tools & renovation supplies – Especially if you’re pausing a remodel
• Extra linens, towels, and bedding – Reduce bulk inside the cabin
• Electronics or small appliances – Better off in a sealed indoor unit
• Decor, bins, or storage totes – Free up floor space indoors

“We put away all our summer gear and electronics in an indoor unit each winter — it keeps our cabin clean and damage-free when we’re not around.”

— Greg & Dana, Big Bear homeowners

What Type of Storage Unit Should You Use?

At Big Bear Self Storage, you can choose from multiple unit types depending on what you're storing:

🔓 Drive-Up Units

Perfect for larger items you want to load quickly — like furniture, grills, yard gear, or sports equipment.

🏠 Indoor Units

Best for things that need extra protection from cold or dust — electronics, linens, photos, or small household goods.

🧊 Both Offer:

• Gated access & HD security cameras
• Clean and dry spaces
• Flexible access times and online payments

FAQs

Q. When should I start winterizing my Big Bear cabin?

A. Start between late September and early November, before the first snowstorm.

Q. Can I store electronics and appliances in a unit?

A. Yes. For the best protection, choose an indoor storage unit to avoid cold-related damage.

Q. How do I protect my stuff inside the unit?

A. Use sealed plastic bins, elevate items off the floor, and label everything. Our units are secure and monitored 24/7.

Give Your Cabin Space to Breathe

Winterizing your cabin isn’t just about protection, it’s about peace of mind.

With the right prep and a reliable storage unit, you’ll avoid costly surprises and walk back into a clean, ready-to-use cabin next spring.

Ready to winterize with confidence?

Check available units and reserve now — indoor or drive-up, we've got the space you need this season.