Wait until after you've assessed, boxed and banished your storage before trying to corral it into containers. Only after you've sorted the keepers will you have a true idea of what storage helpers you need. Now you may shop for storage containers. Look for specialty containers for holiday decorations, container with a ledge for hanging file folders for children's artwork and file archives. Plan on purchasing a few at a time as your budget permits.
Cardboard records boxes with removable lids are inexpensive and easy to use.
Store children's clothing inside, and mark each box with size and season information. Handles make them easy to move, and they stack easily. Buy them cheaply at office supply stores or warehouse stores. Hang garments on the rack and cover the rack with an old sheet to prevent dust. If you must keep a spouse's old college textbooks, LPs, or childhood library, nothing beats small moving cartons intended for books.