What Not to Store in Your Self-Storage Unit

If you've ever had to use a storage unit, you know that there's plenty of things that you can store. But did you know that there are items that you should not put in a storage unit? 

In this article, we'll go over nine items that you shouldn't store in a self-storage unit. These items range from common sense items to things that you might not expect. 

Plants

Certain items should be kept outside of storage not because they don't fit, but because they require constant maintenance. Plants fit squarely into this category, but that's not the only reason you should keep plants out of your storage unit.

In addition to requiring constant attention and sunlight, both of which are hard to come by in a self-storage unit, plants are a favorite habitat of pests. Plants become more attractive to bugs as they wither or rot, which is almost certain to happen in an enclosed storage area. 

Guns and Ammunition

Weapons, specifically firearms, should be kept in a safe location in your own home and not in a storage unit. Some storage units don't allow for the storage of firearms, but this will vary from location to location. Many have restrictions on which firearms are allowed to be stored, but it's always best to keep any firearms in a location where you can easily check on them.

Ammunition is not allowed in almost any storage unit. Ammunition for firearms contains highly flammable materials such as gunpowder, which brings us to our next set of items you shouldn't store.

Highly Flammable Materials

Most storage units won't accept highly flammable materials, but even if they do accept them, you should never store these items in a self-storage unit. This doesn't include flammable items such as linens or wood furniture but specifically refers to items like cans of gasoline or ammunition. 

We'd go so far as to suggest that you avoid storing high-proof alcohols in your storage unit, as these items can become a huge fire hazard. By leaving your combustibles at home in a safe location, you can keep your stored belongings safe.

Scented Items

Most people wouldn't think that a scented candle would be such a problem in a storage unit, but unless you're a big fan of bugs, we suggest leaving these in the living room. Scented items like candles, colognes, and perfumes have a habit of attracting pests to their sweet smell. 

Not only do these pests make retrieving your items a more harrowing experience than it needs to be, certain bugs could cause damage to your other items.

Medical Supplies

If you have to store medical supplies make sure to check-in with the manager of your storage unit complex. Certain medical supplies present a biohazard or even radioactivity hazards and are legally prohibited from being stored.

Additionally, you should always keep medical supplies on hand. If you have a medical emergency, you don't want the item you need stuffed beneath a mattress in your storage unit. 

Food

Food is another big attractor of pests. Even food items that can be stored safely without rotting or otherwise going bad can still attract bugs with their scent. 

In some instances, food can be stored in a storage unit, but we still advise against it. If you were to store any food, make sure that it is in an airtight container like a can. 

Live Animals

We hope this never crossed your mind, but live animals should never be kept in a storage unit. Most storage units will terminate your unit contract if they find out that a live animal is being kept in a unit.

Storing a live animal in a storage unit can also get you charged with animal cruelty, and it presents a danger to you, the animal, the property manager and any other storage unit tenants. 

Jewelry and Valuables

This is something that should be considered on a case-by-case basis but we generally advise against putting valuables into a storage unit. Storage units are very secure, and rarely ever get broken into, but these valuable and treasured items are safest in your possession. Check out our new Haledon Self-Storage location.

Wet Objects

If you want to store something that's been soaked, be sure to dry it out before placing it in your unit. Wet items, like towels and clothing, often gather molds that can spread to other objects, causing damage, or destroying them entirely.

Even worse, damp objects are yet another favorite of pests and vermin. Make sure that anything you place into your storage unit is dry, or you could end up causing damage to your property.

Unregistered Vehicles

Lastly, while storing a vehicle is one of the most common uses of a storage unit, make sure that you keep your registration up to date. Many states offer reduced registration fees for vehicles that will not be driven or will be driven in a very limited capacity. Some states classify unregistered vehicles as abandoned, which could prevent you from registering them in the future.

Need a Place to Store Your Belongings?

Now that you know what not to store in your self-storage unit, you're ready to store like a pro. If you have an upcoming move or a decluttering session in your near future, Storage Post is here to help. We offer units of all different sizes, from personal lockers to extra-large units and even parking spaces. Contact us today to see how we can help you with your storage needs.