5 Things You Should Never Put in a Storage Unit

Storage units are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They are a smart solution to many different home problems. Some use them to organize their belongings while moving or while living in a place with no space to spare. Storage units are helpful tools, but here are 5 things you should never put in a storage unit for safety and security.

1 – Sentimental Items or Official Documents

While designers intend storage units to keep your personal belongings safe, you should remember that unforeseen circumstances can still occur. Flooding, fires, or robberies can cause your precious items to be lost forever. You should keep items with high sentimental value, original documents, and family heirlooms close to you or in a fireproof safe. This precaution can prevent the heartache of losing irreplaceable items. 

2 – Electronics

Some storage units do not have climate control and may be subject to extreme temperatures or humidity levels, which can potentially damage electronics. If you plan to store electronics in your storage unit, be sure to remove any batteries and take necessary precautions to safeguard your equipment from humidity. Experts highly recommend opting for a climate-controlled storage unit for storing electronics, as it maintains a consistent temperature and humidity level.

3 – Hazardous Materials

Many self-storage facilities have rules regarding what you can and cannot store. Typically, you are not allowed to store any materials that can be harmful if left in a non-ventilated area, such as a storage unit. Common household items such as paint, propane, gasoline, fertilizer, tires, and batteries are often on the list of prohibited items. It is also unsafe to store cleaning agents, aerosol cans, and nail polish removers containing acetone.

4 – Anything Damp

Storing your summer items in a storage unit can be a great solution, especially for bulky items like a kayak or pool equipment. However, it’s crucial to ensure that all items are completely dry before placing them in storage. Dampness can lead to mold and mildew, potentially causing damage to your belongings.

5 – Clutter

Consider this advice: Do you need a storage unit, or do you need to declutter? The answer may be to declutter. It may seem simple to store excess items, but if your home is overflowing with stuff, it’s better to declutter. You may feel that you have “decluttered” after you move some things into storage, but this may become a repeating cycle. Monthly fees for a storage unit can seem like a small investment, but decluttering is free! The Marie Kondo “KonMari” method is a system for decluttering that has been recommended by professionals all over the world. Try to declutter as much as possible before deciding to invest in a storage unit. If you need help decluttering, check out our previous blog post.

When packing your things to put into storage, remember these 5 things you should never put in a storage unit for safety and security.