While storage units are excellent solutions for stashing away various belongings, there are certain items that should never be placed in a storage unit. This article will discuss items that are unsuitable for storage and the reasons why they pose potential risks or problems.
-
Perishable items: Avoid storing any perishable items in your storage unit, including:
- Food:Storing food can attract pests, cause odors, and lead to mold or mildew growth.
- Plants:Most storage units do not provide the proper environment for plant survival, and plants can also attract pests.
-
Hazardous materials and chemicals: Hazardous materials and chemicals can pose serious risks to both people and property. These items are typically prohibited from storage units:
- Explosives or ammunition:Storing these items can lead to dangerous accidents or explosions.
- Flammable or combustible materials:Items like gasoline, paint, or propane can ignite, causing fires and damage.
- Toxic chemicals:Storing toxic substances like pesticides, cleaning chemicals, or asbestos can pose health risks and environmental hazards.
- Living creatures:Never store living creatures, such as pets or animals, in a storage unit. Storage facilities lack the necessary resources to provide a safe, comfortable, and humane environment for living beings.
- Stolen or illegal items:Storing stolen or illegal items in a storage unit is against the law and can lead to criminal charges. Storage facilities have the right to report any suspicious or illegal activity to law enforcement.
- Sensitive documents and valuables: While storage units can be secure, it’s still a good idea to avoid storing sensitive documents, such as passports, birth certificates, or social security cards, and extremely valuable items like expensive jewelry or heirlooms. Instead, opt for a safe deposit box or a secure location within your home.
- Items that require a controlled environment: If you have items that need a specific temperature or humidity level, such as delicate artwork, antiques, or wine, make sure you select a climate-controlled storage unit. Standard storage units may not provide the necessary environmental conditions to protect these items.
Understanding what items should be kept out of your storage unit is crucial for maintaining a safe and hazard-free environment. By avoiding perishables, hazardous materials, living creatures, illegal items, sensitive documents, and items that require controlled environments, you can ensure your storage experience is both secure and problem-free.