Storage units are incredibly convenient when you need extra space for your belongings, whether you’re moving, downsizing, or just trying to declutter. But while storage units are safe and secure for most items, there are a few things that should never be stored in one.
To protect your belongings—and your safety—it’s important to know what to leave out. Here’s a list of items you should never put into a storage unit:
1. Perishable Food and Plants
Storing food (even canned goods or pet food) or live plants is a big no-no. Perishables can attract pests like rodents and insects, leading to infestations that affect not only your unit but neighboring ones as well. Plants require light and water, which storage units don’t provide, so they won’t survive long in storage conditions.
2. Hazardous Materials
Flammable, explosive, or toxic materials are strictly prohibited in all storage facilities. This includes items like:
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Gasoline, propane tanks, and lighter fluid
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Paints and paint thinners
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Fertilizers and pesticides
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Fireworks
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Cleaning solvents or other chemicals
These materials pose serious safety risks and violate most facility policies. If you’re unsure whether something qualifies as hazardous, check the label or ask your storage provider.
3. Illegal or Stolen Goods
It may seem obvious, but anything illegal—such as stolen property, unregistered firearms, or contraband—cannot be stored in a unit. Storage facilities have the right to cooperate with law enforcement if there’s any suspicion of illegal activity.
4. Living Beings
Never store pets or any kind of animal in a storage unit. Units are not ventilated or climate-controlled for living beings, and doing so is not only unethical—it’s illegal and could result in criminal charges.
5. Scented or Wet Items
Items that carry strong odors (like candles, soaps, or scented oils) can attract pests. Wet items, such as damp furniture, towels, or even a recently used garden hose, can lead to mold, mildew, and water damage—not just to your items, but to others’ as well.
6. Valuables or Important Documents
Storage units are secure, but they’re not vaults. It’s best to keep high-value items like jewelry, cash, important documents (passports, birth certificates, etc.), or family heirlooms in a safer, more controlled environment like a safety deposit box or fireproof safe in your home.
7. Unregistered or Inoperable Vehicles (Without Permission)
Most storage facilities have rules about storing vehicles. If allowed, you’ll typically need to show proof of registration, insurance, and ensure the vehicle is in working condition. Dumping a broken-down car into a unit without permission could violate your rental agreement.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what not to store is just as important as knowing what you can store. When in doubt, check with your storage facility’s guidelines—most will provide a list of prohibited items. Being cautious not only protects your belongings but also ensures a safe environment for everyone using the facility.
Need help deciding what can or can’t go into storage? Contact our team—we’re here to help you store smart and safely.