What Items Can You Not Store in a Storage Unit?

Renting a storage unit is a convenient solution for freeing up space in your home, protecting valuables during a move, or simply keeping seasonal items out of the way. However, before you start loading up your storage unit, it’s important to know that there are certain items that are prohibited. These restrictions are typically in place due to safety regulations, legal compliance, or the need to maintain a clean and secure environment for everyone using the facility.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what you cannot store in a rented storage unit and why.

1. Perishable Items

Storage units are not designed to house perishable goods like food, beverages, or pet food. These items can spoil quickly, attract pests such as rodents and insects, and lead to unpleasant odors. Even canned or sealed goods are discouraged in most storage units, as they can still invite pests if not properly stored.

Why It’s Prohibited:

• Attracts pests
• Risks contamination
• Causes odor and mess

Alternatives:

Consider donating unused food to local food banks or storing it in a pest-proof container in a climate-controlled space.

2. Hazardous Materials

You are not allowed to store flammable, toxic, or hazardous materials, including:

• Gasoline
• Propane tanks
• Paint
• Cleaning chemicals
• Fireworks
• Fertilizer

These materials pose significant safety risks, such as fires, explosions, and chemical spills, which could endanger the entire facility and the items stored by others.

Why It’s Prohibited:

• Safety hazards (flammability, toxicity)
• Legal regulations

Alternatives:

Dispose of hazardous materials properly through your local hazardous waste disposal programs.

3. Weapons and Ammunition

Storage units are generally off-limits for firearms, ammunition, or explosives. The rules surrounding the storage of weapons vary based on state and local laws, but most facilities have policies in place prohibiting these items altogether.

Why It’s Prohibited:

• Legal compliance
• Risk of theft or misuse

Alternatives:

If you need to store weapons, a licensed storage facility designed specifically for firearms storage is your best option.

4. Illegal Items

It goes without saying that storing illegal substances, stolen goods, or any items associated with criminal activity is strictly prohibited. If a storage facility identifies illegal contents in your unit, they are obligated to report it to the authorities, which could lead to serious legal consequences.

Why It’s Prohibited:

• Violation of the law
• Puts the facility and other renters at risk

Alternatives:

Avoid renting a unit to harbor illegal activity.

5. Living Beings

Storage units are not a safe or humane place to store any living beings, including pets, plants, or humans (yes, people have tried!). Storage units lack proper ventilation, sunlight, and regulated temperatures, making them uninhabitable.

Why It’s Prohibited:

• Violates animal welfare and human safety laws
• Unsuitable environment for living beings

Alternatives:

For temporary pet care, consider boarding facilities or pet-sitting services. Plants are best kept in climate-controlled environments.

6. Scented or Damp Items

Heavily scented or damp items are also discouraged from being stored in a rented unit. Items like wet clothing, fresh flowers, or recently used camping gear can create moisture buildup, mold growth, or unpleasant odors that can spread to other nearby units.

Why It’s Prohibited:

• Leads to mold or mildew
• Causes unpleasant odors

Alternatives:

Ensure all items are thoroughly dried and stored in sealed containers before moving them into your unit.

Final Tips

Before you load up your rented storage unit, take the time to review the facility’s rules and regulations. Every storage facility has a list of prohibited items, so it’s a good idea to double-check with them if you’re unsure about anything.

When storing items that are sensitive to temperature or humidity, consider investing in a climate-controlled unit. While it may cost a bit more, but it can save you from potential damage or deterioration of your belongings.