If you think of storage units as a lawless personal dumping ground where anything and everything goes, think again. Not everything is meant to be stored in a storage unit.
Read on to discover the surprising items that fall under “what not to put in a storage unit” category.
Failure to comply with this list of banned items could result in penalty–or worse, eviction.
Common prohibited items
While prohibited items will vary from storage facility to storage facility, here’s a list of items you can expect to see on a facility’s banned list–regardless of where you rent a self-storage unit.
- Perishable food items (Note: exceptions may be granted for shelf-stable food items in tightly-sealed containers)
- Stolen and illegal goods (illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, etc.)
- Hazardous materials (Fertilizer, fireworks, gasoline, grease, paint, propane tanks, compressed gas, etc.)
- Weapons and ammunition
- Priceless and irreplaceable items (antiques, collectibles, high-value artwork, etc.)
Storage companies often post a list of prohibited items in their Terms of Service documents. These lists usually consist of hazardous materials, perishable goods and illegal items.
For example, the storage marketplace Neighbor currently prohibits the storage of cash, securities, jewelry, rare publications, artwork, and collectibles.
Did you know that personal belongings and inanimate objects aren’t the only items gracing prohibited items lists? “People” also make these restrictions lists.
No matter your storage facility of choice, living in a unit is not allowed! And in most cases, conducting business in a storage unit or treating your storage space as a workshop ISN’T an option, either. As for business materials and equipment, it’s in your best interest to check with the facility before storing.
Prohibited Items: A General Overview
When thinking about what to put in a storage unit, you might imagine it’s a case of anything goes. However, storage companies have a list of prohibited items for a reason – to ensure the safety of all stored items and the facility itself. So, what’s off-limits? Hazardous materials, perishable goods, and illegal items top the list.
Now, you might be wondering, “Why the fuss?” After all, it’s your storage unit, right? Well, imagine your unit is a safe deposit box. You wouldn’t put a live animal in a safe deposit box, would you? The poor pet wouldn’t fare well without fresh air and sunshine. Similar logic applies to storage units.
Hazardous Materials
Did you know that storing that leftover paint thinner from your last home improvement project in your storage unit could be a no-no? Just like you wouldn’t store fireworks in your living room, certain hazardous materials have no place in a storage unit. Hazardous materials, like paint thinner, propane tanks, car batteries, and others, can catch fire, explode, or leak toxic waste, posing a risk to the storage facility.
So, before you shuttle off those extra car batteries to your self-storage unit, consider proper disposal methods instead. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Perishable Goods
While a storage unit might seem like a perfect place to store food, especially that extra canned food from your pandemic pantry, think twice. Although canned foods are less perishable, they can still attract insects and rodents. Fresh or pet food items can rot, and the resulting odors can permeate the entire self-storage facility.
Even seemingly harmless items, like scented candles, can become a problem. Over time, in an enclosed space, they can easily attract pests or melt in extreme temperatures, creating quite the sticky situation.
So, unless you want to return to a unit infested with pests and filled with the stench of rotting food, it’s best to keep perishable goods out of your storage unit.
Illegal Items
Storing illegal items, such as stolen property, illegal drugs, or unlicensed weapons, in a storage unit is a straight path to legal trouble. It’s not just about breaking the rules of the storage company; it’s about breaking the law.
Imagine being a storage facility manager who discovers an unlicensed firearm or illegal substances in a rental unit. You wouldn’t want to be in the shoes of the person who rented that unit when the authorities arrive. So stick to storing legal, permitted items, and you’ll sleep better at night.
Special Restrictions on Storing Vehicles
While many storage units permit vehicles (cars, RVs, trailers, boats, etc.), there are some special restrictions to keep in mind. It’s not as simple as parking your RV or trailer and locking up.
If you’ve been contemplating whether to store your vintage roadster or your boat in a storage unit, you must, first, insure and register the vehicle and show proof of a valid license. Uninsured and non-operational vehicles aren’t allowed in most storage units.
Let’s delve a bit deeper into the specifics for cars and larger vehicles like boats and RVs.
Cars
If you plan to store your car in a storage facility, it’s a good idea to maintain your car even when it’s stowed away. A well-maintained car is less likely to leak oil or other fluids that could damage the storage unit or other stored items.
Boats and RVs
When it comes to storing larger vehicles like boats and RVs, these vehicles pose unique challenges due to their size and specific storage requirements.
For instance, you may find that your storage unit simply isn’t big enough to fit your RV. Even if size isn’t an issue, there may be restrictions related to engine fumes or other factors.
Before attempting to store your boat or RV in a storage unit, be sure to check with the storage facility about any possible restrictions or requirements.
What NOT to Do When Storing Sensitive Items at Storage Facility
Just like it’s important to stay updated on lists of banned items, it’s equally important to stay abreast of self storage dos and don’ts. Ultimately, it’s not enough to avoid the wrong items; you’ll also need to avoid storing the right (or approved) items the wrong way.
Properly preparing items for storage can mean the difference between retrieving your possessions in the same condition you left them or dealing with damage or loss. Whether you’re storing business inventory, personal belongings, or something else, there are a few key steps to take.
From cleaning and drying your items to using the right packing materials, these simple but essential steps can help ensure your items stay protected while in storage.
DON’T Store Dirty or Wet Items in Storage Units
Before you put anything in a storage unit, make sure it’s clean and dry. Storing dirty or wet items can lead to mold and mildew, causing damage to your items and potentially others in the facility.
It’s best to clean items with a suitable cleaning solution, rinse or wipe them down with a damp cloth, and then let them air dry completely before packing them for storage. For clothing and linens, follow the instructions on the labels and make sure they are completely dry before packing.
DON’T forget the necessary packing materials
Just as you wouldn’t send a fragile item through the mail without proper packaging, you shouldn’t put items in a storage unit without the right packing materials. The right materials can protect your belongings from dust, moisture, and damage.
Use sturdy, high-quality boxes that can withstand stacking. Bubble wrap, packing paper, and heavy-duty packaging tape can offer additional protection. For fragile items, consider using additional padding or dividers within the box.
DON’T store electronics and antiques like everything else
Storing items in a storage unit isn’t always a ‘pack and stack’ affair. Some items, like electronics and antiques, need a little more TLC. Why?
Because they’re sensitive to temperature fluctuations and humidity, which are common in storage units. That’s why considering temporary storage can be a smart choice for these delicate items.
If you’re pondering whether to put your expensive camera equipment or antique furniture in storage, you’ll need to take some extra steps to ensure their safety.
Electronics
If you’re planning to store electronics, from your large flat-screen TV to your compact Bluetooth speakers, you’ll need to consider climate controlled units, specifically a climate-controlled storage unit. Electronics are sensitive to extreme temperatures and humidity, which can damage internal components and even lead to data loss.
Before storing electronics, remove batteries, which can leak and cause damage. Also, consider using anti-static packaging materials, which help to prevent static electricity that can harm electronic devices.
Antiques and Artwork
If your storage facility of choice doesn’t prohibit the storage of antiques and artwork, you’ll need to be mindful of the dangers long-term storage poses to your valuables.
Even a small change in temperature or humidity can cause significant damage to delicate works of art. That’s why these items require a little more care when preparing for storage.
A climate-controlled storage unit is ideal for antiques and artwork, as it maintains a constant environment regardless of the weather outside. Additionally, consider using acid-free packing materials to prevent yellowing or degradation. Specialized storage containers can also offer extra protection for valuable paintings or delicate antiques.
Unconventional Storage Uses: What’s Allowed and What’s Not
While storage units are typically used for storing household items or business inventory, some especially creative renters have [attempted] to reimagine the standard 10×10 storage unit. From at-home gyms to art galleries, the sky is seemingly the limit for these innovative thinkers.
However, not all unconventional uses are permitted, so it’s essential to know what practices are allowed and which aren’t.
Whether you’re considering using a storage unit for your burgeoning e-commerce inventory, pondering the idea of living in one (strictly prohibited behavior), or even thinking about utilizing it as an office space, understanding the rules and restrictions is key.
Let’s take a closer look at two common unconventional storage uses: business inventory and living spaces.
Business Inventory
Operating a business often means dealing with inventory. For small business owners, a storage unit can be a cost-effective solution for inventory storage. This is especially true for e-commerce businesses, where physical retail space may not be necessary, and storage facilities can provide the needed space.
However, before you move your business inventory into a storage unit, check with the storage facility about any restrictions. Some facilities might not allow certain types of inventory, or they may have specific rules in place about accessing the unit during off-hours.
Living Spaces
While it might seem like an affordable housing solution, using a storage unit as a living space is not only prohibited but also unsafe. Storage units lack the necessary amenities for living, such as plumbing, proper ventilation, and cooking facilities.
There could also be legal consequences if you’re caught living in a storage unit. So, as tempting as it may be to treat your storage unit as a temporary residence, it’s best to stick to using it for its intended purpose: storage.
Summary
From understanding which items are prohibited in storage units to learning how to prepare your belongings for storage, we’ve covered a lot of ground. Remember, the key to a successful storage experience is knowing the rules, preparing your items appropriately, and choosing the right facility. Now, armed with these tips, you’re ready to make the most of your storage unit!
Still in search of an affordable storage solution located less than a five-minute drive away? Check out Neighbor, the largest storage and parking marketplace, stacked with storage options in your own neighborhood and big-name storage facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What things should not be put in a self storage unit?
It’s best to avoid putting food, hazardous materials, living creatures, sentimental items, guns and ammunition, plants, flammable liquids, chemicals, or perishable items in a storage unit.
These items can be dangerous, cause damage to the unit, or even be illegal to store. It’s important to check with the storage facility before putting any of these items in the unit.
Is it OK to store electronics in a storage unit?
It is OK to store electronics in a storage unit; just be sure to remove any batteries first and take extra precautions to protect from humidity.
Look into climate-controlled storage options to ensure your electronics stay in working order.
Is it OK to put a TV in a storage unit?
It’s best to put your TV in a climate-controlled storage unit to protect it from temperature fluctuations. Climate-controlled units maintain a steady range of temperature ideal for storing a TV. This ensures that your TV is not exposed to extreme temperatures that could damage it.
Will my stuff get ruined in storage?
If you take care to dry your clothes properly and keep them away from extreme temperatures, your stuff should be fine in storage.
However, it is important to note that there is always a small risk of damage or loss.
