15 Things You Should Never Put in a Storage Unit
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Storage solutions are an excellent way to declutter your house or store possessions while relocating, but they are not for everything. Some things should never go into storage, as doing otherwise could lead to damage, theft, or even legal issues.
Here is a list of 15 things you should avoid putting in a storage unit to ensure your possessions and the facility remain safe and in good condition.
Perishable Items
When storing items in a storage unit, remember that the space is not climate-controlled. Never store perishable food, plants, or organic material in a storage unit. They spoil, stink up your place, attract vermin, and ruin other things.
Hazardous Materials
While it may go without saying, you should never keep hazardous materials in a storage unit. These materials include gasoline, propane tanks, chemicals, and flammable and explosive substances. Very few storage facilities will allow you to store any of these items in your unit, as they can be extremely dangerous.
Valuables
Storage units can provide some safety, but nowhere near the level you will need if you take everything of great value. Items such as jewelry, cash, key documents, and family heirlooms can be challenging or impossible to replace if lost or stolen in a storage unit.
Illegal Items
Illegal items should never be stored in a storage unit. You risk being in extreme legal trouble, including for storage of firearms, drugs, stolen property, etc. Storage facilities can also conduct random checks and have the power to call authorities if anything illegal is found in a locker.
Scented Items
Do not store anything with a strong smell in the unit. This advice applies to all objects that can attract micro-organisms or emit scents, such as candles, perfumes, and air fresheners. These scented products can mask issues in the storage unit, like damp floors or mildew.
Wet Items
Ensure your things are dry before storing them in a storage unit. Mold can grow on wet items and ruin other things in the same box. It is best to let wet or damp items fully dry before storing them.
Uninsured Items
While most storage facilities offer insurance for stored goods, it is not always mandatory. If you have valuable or sentimental possessions, it may be worth investing in additional insurance to protect them in case of damage or theft.
Flammable Items
In addition to hazardous materials, flammable items should not be stored in a storage unit. Items such as gasoline-powered tools and propane tanks pose an immediate fire risk. Contact your storage facility for their flammable storage guidelines.
Plants
Since plants need sunlight and water to survive, a dark, dry storage unit would not suit them. Do not place live plants in a storage unit, as they will wilt and die. If you must store plants, consider finding a temporary home for them with a friend or family member.
Unregistered Vehicles
Storing your cars, motorcycles, or boats in such a space may seem okay, but please check with your storage facility first. Certain facilities prohibit storing unregistered vehicles; others may ask for extra paperwork or charges. Failure to comply with these rules could result in fines or even the removal of the vehicle from the unit.
Electronics
Electronics are prone to damage in a storage unit because the temperatures and humidity cannot be controlled. If the temperatures are extreme, the screens may crack, batteries leak, and internal components malfunction. Keep electronics in a temperature-controlled area.
Clothing and Bedding
While clothing and bedding may seem harmless, they attract pests like moths and mice. These pests can damage or ruin your items, leaving you with an unpleasant surprise when you return to retrieve them.
Unlabeled Boxes
It may be tempting to pack everything into unmarked boxes for convenience, but this can lead to confusion when it comes time to retrieve your items. Label all boxes with their contents so you know what is inside each one. This approach will save you time and frustration when searching for specific items.
Furniture Without Proper Protection
When storing furniture, be sure it is covered or wrapped correctly. Failure to protect furniture can result in scratches, stains, and general wear and tear. Keep covering them with furniture covers or any suitable blanket. This way, you can protect things from dust and moisture and not let anything spoil.
Items You Might Need
Lastly, avoid storing items you may need shortly. While storage units offer a convenient place to store seasonal items like holiday decorations or summer gear, they are not ideal for items you may need on short notice. Keep these items easily accessible in your home instead.
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