What NOT to Store in a Self Storage Unit

Packing up a storage unit is a great way to save space, but before you start a “maybe store it” list, this blog explores a few everyday items that just aren’t meant for storage units. Some are against the rules for safety reasons and others simply won’t hold up over time, no matter how carefully you pack them. Every facility has clear rules about what can and cannot be stored, and you’ll typically find them spelled out in your rental agreement.

Here’s your guide to what to leave out and where those items should go instead. 

 

1. Anything Flammable or Combustible

This one is all about safety. Storage units are enclosed spaces and flammable materials pose a fire risk to your belongings and everyone else’s in the facility. Do not store:

• Gasoline, propane or kerosene
• Motor oil and other automotive fluids
• Fireworks
• Cleaning solvents and aerosol cans
• Paint thinner or paint (in large quantities)

You can store small amounts of these items in a detached garage or shed at home and always follow local disposal guidelines for anything you no longer need.

 

2. Perishable Food

Even climate-controlled units aren’t set up to store food. Temperature and humidity control help protect furniture and electronics, but they don’t stop food from spoiling (even canned items) and perishables left in an enclosed space will start to break down faster than you’d expect. 

That process attracts pests like ants, rodents, and other unwelcome visitors. Once pests find a way into one unit, they don’t always stay put, which is part of why the rule matters for more than just your own belongings. No one wants to unlock their unit expecting to grab a few boxes and instead find a surprise family of animals.

Keep your pantry items at home, and if you’re downsizing your kitchen, consider donating unopened, non-perishable items to a local food bank.

 

3. Live Plants

Plants need sunlight, water, and airflow to survive. Beyond the sad fate of the plant itself, decomposing greenery can attract insects and create mold issues.

If you can’t take your plant with you, rehome it with friends, family or a local garden club.

 

4. Pets or Any Living Creature

This should go without saying, but storage units are never a home for animals of any kind. 

 

5. Hazardous or Toxic Materials

Chemicals, pesticides, asbestos-containing materials, and anything marked “toxic” or “corrosive” pose health risks to you, other tenants and our on-site teams.

Check with your city or county for hazardous waste disposal programs as many communities offer free drop-off days for exactly this kind of item.

 

6. Wet or Damp Items

A patio cushion that is wet from a day of rain, or a sofa that was sitting outside and not quite dry might not sound like a big deal, but moisture is one of the fastest ways to invite mold, mildew, rust and musty odors into your unit and everything stored nearby.

Let items dry out completely before boxing them up and consider moisture-absorbing packets, especially with fabric or upholstered items. Avoid moving items into your storage unit on rainy days unless you are using a storage facility with a covered loading dock.

 

7. Cash, Jewelry, Important Documents and Irreplaceable Valuables

While Guardian Storage properties feature gated access, passcode protected entry and video monitoring, storage units are best suited for items you don’t need daily access to and not certain family heirlooms or items you’d never want to lose. This also includes birth certificates, passports, wills, deeds, tax records and other original documents that would be difficult or impossible to replace if something went wrong.

Keep cash, jewelry, passports and sentimental valuables in a bank safety deposit box or a secure home safe.

 

8. Stolen or Illegal Items 

Storage units cannot be used to store stolen goods or illegal substances. Facility managers reserve the right to inspect units when there’s reasonable cause and local law enforcement takes these matters seriously.

 

9. Firearms, Ammunition and Explosives 

Even if you own your firearms legally and keep them properly registered, most storage leases prohibit them. Ammunition adds its own risk, since it’s classified as a combustible in an enclosed space.

If you need to store firearms, a home gun safe or a licensed firearms storage facility are all options. Check your local laws, since transport and storage rules for firearms vary by state.

 

10. Scented or Strongly Fragranced Items

Items like scented candles (unused is fine, but avoid large quantities), potpourri or strong cleaning products can leave lingering odors that transfer to everything else in your unit.

Store these items at home, or in smaller quantities with airtight packaging if storage is unavoidable.

 

Not sure about an item?

If you have questions about what you can and cannot store, our on-site teams are always happy to help you figure out the best way to pack, organize and protect your belongings. If you’re ever unsure whether something is a good fit for your unit, just ask, that’s what we’re here for.

Ready to find the right space for everything else on your list? Find a Guardian Storage location near you and get started today.