Storage containers are well-known for offering an extra room in homes that would otherwise be lacking. This solution proves beneficial for shopaholics, antique enthusiasts, family heirloom collectors, hoarders, or people who enjoy filling our homes with items. If you’re one of them, you’ll need to look into storage solutions at some time in your life, whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner. And storage facilities are a lifesaver for those relocating, renovating, storing inventory, or looking for some space for their valuables.
A storage facility has various advantages, including price, convenience, mobility, and security. And that you can store almost anything inside of it. However, it is not always the case. No matter how advanced a storage unit is, it will not accommodate a few items. Additionally, some items jeopardize your storage container, as well as other things in it. As a result, you must be cautious and aware of what should and should not be stored in a storage container.
If you are relocating or planning a vacation, you must be extremely cautious while choosing a storage facility. Moving Options, a well-known solution assisting people in relocation, can assist you too. They connect you with moving companies that can help you store your belongings. We’ve compiled a list of items that are not worth keeping in the self-storage unit.
Eatables
When it comes to goods that shouldn’t be held in a self-storage facility, perishable and food items occupy the top slot. Food items decay and rot quickly and can pose a health hazard for the entire facility. Besides, perishable items attract pests, mildew, and mold. Even in a climate-controlled container, it’s tough to store and keep these products fresh. Dry commodities such as pasta, rice, and wheat can also be stored if necessary. Glass or plastic containers are ideal for storing these products. However, always keep an eye on them for pests or bugs.
Pets and Plants
Storage units should never have pets or animals inside them. It is because animals need oxygen and water to live. Plus, animals produce bodily waste, which you surely don’t want in your storage container. Keeping animals inside the storage will jeopardize their health. Dead animals should also be kept out of the storage area since they create strong smells that attract mice and bugs.
Similarly, plants also require sunlight and water to live. And, putting them away from light in the dark will kill them. Therefore, it won’t be a good idea to store them in storage.
Wet Items
If you have stored your valuable belongings inside the storage unit, make sure to keep the moisture away. Moisture can cause damage to the items stored and cause mold to grow on flooring and walls. Surfboards, dive gear, kayaks, and other similar items should be thoroughly dry before being stored. You can also check into commercial moisture-absorbing items that can be used inside to prevent moisture from accumulating. Before putting anything inside that has water in it, be sure it is dry. Also, keep moist and damp materials away from the storage.
Unregistered Vehicles
Automobiles that are legally insured, registered, and working can be stored inside a storage facility. These vehicles include boats, trailers, motorbikes, trucks, and RV’s. The car must have a current registration that matches the renter’s identity for your safety and guarantee. Aside from this, you also require proof of insurance and a valid driver’s license to store your car. As a result, if your vehicle is unregistered and does not have the other two important documents, you may be unable to put it in the storage unit. It is because this is unsafe and dangerous. The on-site manager will also ask for proof.
Hazardous Material
Hazardous materials include toxic, flammable, explosive, and corrosive items. Kerosene oil, paints, fertilizers, turpentine, grease, acid, explosives, asbestos, and biological waste are only a few examples. Your storage and surroundings may pose a safety threat if you store any of these items inside the store. Also, because moving firms do not remove these objects during transit, make sure you properly dispose of them. Inhaling some of these chemicals may cause serious harm to individuals and result in deadly diseases.
Liquids
Liquids may not be dangerous, but if leaked, they may result in wetting other items too. It may damage the storage if the liquid contains any hazardous chemicals. Housing bottled water may also become toxic after a certain period. This water can also pose health issues. The reason for this is, when water bottles are stored for an extended time, the plastic in the bottles releases the BPA chemical. It renders the water unfit for consumption.
Elicit Items
Storage units are closely monitored for any illegal items placed inside. Drugs and stolen things are checked right away, and employees are likely to call the cops if they notice anything suspicious. It also includes illegal weapons, ammunition, firearms, and explosives. Moreover, expired or illegal pharmaceuticals should not be kept in the storage unit.
Storage Maintainance
It is vital to keep your storage space clean and organized to find your belongings is not a challenge. Consider devoting time to cleaning your items regularly to ensure that they remain in optimum functionality. Go through the boxes and toss out anything you don’t need. Do the necessary sweeping and dusting to keep the dust away. Also, use a bug spray to remove all the bugs and pests inside. Cover large and valuable belonging, and use small containers to pack other stuff. Storage maintenance is quite a task, but it won’t take much time if appropriately planned.
The Bottom Line
While renting a storage unit, make sure you’re getting the most out of your storage space. Knowing what items can make it to your storage unit’s inventory list is critical as you may be penalized for harming your possessions, live creatures, and the environment. Be careful with what you store inside and read the storage unit’s guidelines. Most storage units have user policies that may help you if you feel something is unsafe and not appropriate to be stored.
