Renting a self-storage unit is a fantastic solution when you’re decluttering, storing seasonal items, or protecting your belongings during a move. However, it’s important to remember that not everything is suitable for storage. Certain items can pose safety hazards, damage your property, or even breach your rental agreement. In this blog post, we’ll examine what you should avoid storing in a self-storage unit to ensure a smooth and safe experience.
Items to Avoid Storing in Self-Storage
1. Perishable Goods Perishable items, such as food, plants, or any organic materials, should never be placed in a self-storage unit. These items can spoil quickly, attracting pests like rodents and insects, and they can emit unpleasant odours. Worse still, they may lead to infestations that could damage not only your belongings but also those of others using the facility. Spoiled goods can also encourage mould and mildew, creating an unhealthy environment within your unit. 2. Hazardous Materials Storing hazardous materials in a self-storage unit is not only dangerous but also illegal. Items such as petrol, paint, oil, and certain cleaning solvents are highly flammable. Compressed gases or aerosols can explode under the right conditions. Keeping any of these items could result in fires, chemical leaks, or explosions, creating serious safety risks. Be sure to review your storage facility's policy on prohibited materials, as hazardous substances are typically forbidden. 3. Illegal Substances Any illegal goods, including counterfeit products or smuggled items, are strictly prohibited in self-storage units. Storing unlicensed or illegal goods could lead to legal action, fines, or even imprisonment. This includes unsafe products such as unregulated toys, electrical items, medicines, and cosmetics that don’t meet safety standards. 4. Living Creatures It may seem obvious, but no living creatures—whether pets, plants, or even people—should ever be stored in a self-storage unit. These facilities lack proper ventilation, food, and water, making them entirely unsuitable for any form of life. 5. Wet or Damp Items Never store items that are damp or wet, as this can lead to mould and mildew growth. Once mould starts to spread, it can cause significant damage to your belongings and the storage unit itself. Ensure that all items are completely dry before storing, and consider using moisture absorbers to maintain the right humidity levels in your unit. 6. Environmentally Harmful Items Items that pose a risk to the environment or can cause damage to the storage facility should not be stored. Toxic chemicals, pollutants, and other dangerous substances could endanger the health and safety of yourself, the facility’s staff, and other customers. 7. Lithium Batteries Lithium batteries, especially larger ones, can be a fire hazard if not stored correctly. Many storage facilities have specific regulations regarding the storage of batteries, particularly lithium-based ones, due to the potential risk of combustion. Always check your facility’s guidelines regarding battery storage. Self-storage units are incredibly useful for many types of belongings, but knowing which items to avoid storing is essential for safety and compliance. Refrain from placing hazardous materials, illegal goods, perishables, valuables, or anything that poses a safety or environmental risk in your storage unit. Before storing your items, always review your storage provider’s guidelines to ensure your belongings are appropriate for the facility. This way, you can be sure that your possessions—and those of others—are safe.
Items You Can Store
If you’ve chosen one of our self-storage units, you’ll find they can hold a wide range of personal and business belongings, all with 24-hour access and reassurance that your items are secure. These units are ideal for business storage needs, including: ● Extra office furniture ● Stock ● Documents ● Specialist equipment Also, our self-storage units in Cambourne are perfect for decluttering your home or storing valuable items that you don’t need to access often, such as: ● Outgrown children’s clothing (always box clothing for easier stacking) ● Sentimental items (including crockery and glassware) ● Unused furniture ● Specialist hobby equipment, such as camping, skiing, or canoeing gear ● Extra books ● Luggage