Self-storage is an increasingly popular option for those who need extra room to store their belongings, whether on a temporary or permanent basis. While self-storage can be a great way to free up some space in your home or business, you can't keep certain items in a self-storage unit. These items could be dangerous to store and may violate your storage unit's rules.
Discover some things you should never keep in a self-storage unit.
Hazardous Materials
Do not keep any hazardous materials in a self-storage unit, including chemicals, paints, and fuels. These materials are often highly flammable and can present an extreme fire hazard without proper storage. They can also be dangerous to people and the environment if they leak.
Unregistered Vehicles
Storing unregistered cars, boats, and motorcycles in a self-storage unit is not always allowed. Not only can these items take up valuable space, but they may violate your rental agreement. Most self-storage facilities require that vehicles be in running condition.
Others may ask that you load the vehicle on a trailer. Others will ask that you only store vehicles that have registration and insurance with your name as the person on the rental agreement. Talk to your storage facility manager to know whether you can store your vehicle and what restrictions they have.
Medication and Illegal Drugs
Prescription medication and illegal drugs do not belong in a self-storage unit. Not only are these items dangerous with incorrect handling, but they could also lead to serious legal ramifications if authorities found them. Additionally, medication does not store well in extreme temperatures, making a storage unit an unreliable place to keep your medications.
Flammable Materials
In a self-storage unit, never store flammable items such as propane tanks, portable heaters, and other combustible objects. They present a fire hazard and can also give off potentially hazardous fumes that could be dangerous. Additionally, many storage facilities have rules against storing any kind of explosive object.
Wet Items
Avoid storing wet items, whether clothes or furniture, in a self-storage unit. Not only could the moisture damage other items in the storage unit but can also lead to mold and mildew growth.
Mold and mildew can be a health risk and could potentially damage your belongings. Moreover, storing wet items can attract pests, which could cause further damage.
Perishables and Food Items
Storing food items can attract pests, create unpleasant odors, and even encourage mold growth. Furthermore, the temperature of a storage unit often does not regulate temperatures like a refrigerator or freezer and can spoil quickly in warmer temperatures.
Valuables and Sentimental Items
No matter how safe you think your storage unit is, avoid storing items with sentimental or monetary value. Sentimental or valuable items include jewelry, heirlooms, family photos, or important documents like wills.
Store these items in a secure location, such as a bank safety deposit box or a home safe. Of course, some storage facilities offer safe units that may house such items, so inquire before you do so.
Plants and Animals
No living things should ever be in a storage unit, even if just for a short period. Plants can die due to a lack of sunlight, water, or proper care. Animals can suffer from extreme temperatures and lack of fresh air.
Self-storage units can be a great way to store items you do not have room for in your home or office. However, never store the items on this list in a unit. If you want a professional storage unit to store your items,
contact us today to learn more about our services. We look forward to helping you.
