When renting a self-storage unit, it’s important to know what items are not allowed or recommended for storage. Whether for safety reasons, legal restrictions, or preservation concerns, avoiding certain items can protect your belongings, comply with facility regulations, and prevent potential hazards. Below, we outline the top 10 items you should never store in a self-storage unit.
1. Perishable Food and Beverages
Storing food in a self-storage unit can attract pests like
rodents and insects, leading to infestations and contamination. Perishable
items can also spoil, causing unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.
2. Hazardous Materials and Chemicals
Flammable, toxic, or hazardous materials such as gasoline,
propane tanks, paint, fireworks, fertilizers, and cleaning chemicals are
strictly prohibited. These items pose serious fire, explosion, and health
risks.
3. Living Plants or Animals
Storage units are not designed to sustain life. Plants
require sunlight, water, and air circulation, while animals need proper care,
making it illegal and inhumane to store them in a unit.
4. Wet or Damp Items
Placing wet or damp items in storage can lead to mold and
mildew growth, damaging your belongings and affecting nearby units. Always
ensure items are completely dry before storing them.
5. Weapons, Ammunition, and Explosives
Most storage facilities have strict policies against storing
firearms, ammunition, and explosives due to safety and legal concerns. These
items should be stored in secure, legally approved locations.
6. Cash and Valuables
While storage units are secure, they are not a substitute
for a bank’s safe deposit box. Items such as cash, jewelry, rare collectibles,
and irreplaceable heirlooms should be kept in a more secure location to prevent
loss or theft.
7. Illegal or Stolen Goods
It is illegal to store stolen property, illicit drugs,
counterfeit money, or any contraband in a storage unit. Storage facilities
cooperate with law enforcement, and illegal activities can lead to criminal
charges.
8. Medical or Pharmaceutical Supplies
Certain medical supplies, especially temperature-sensitive
items such as medications and vaccines, require controlled environments.
Storing these in a non-climate-controlled unit can render them ineffective or
unsafe.
9. Tires
Many facilities restrict the storage of tires due to their
fire hazard risk and environmental concerns. Additionally, abandoned tires can
be costly to dispose of, making them a liability for storage operators.
10. Unregistered or Non-Operational Vehicles
Most storage facilities allow vehicle storage, but they
typically require proof of registration and insurance. Storing inoperable or
unregistered vehicles may violate facility policies and local regulations.
Final Thoughts
Before renting a storage unit, review the facility’s
policies and ask about any restrictions. Understanding what not to store helps
keep your items secure, prevents safety hazards, and ensures compliance with
storage facility guidelines. At Hideaway Self Storage, we prioritize the safety
of our tenants and their belongings. Contact us today to find the best storage
solution for your needs!
