Self-storage units are incredibly useful for keeping your belongings safe and organised when you’re short on space. However, it’s important to remember that not everything is suitable for self-storage. Some items are restricted by law or are simply impractical to store due to safety, health, or environmental concerns.

To avoid potential risks, it’s crucial to know what shouldn’t be stored in your unit. Here’s a comprehensive guide on items that you should never store in self-storage:

1. Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials, such as flammable, toxic, or explosive substances, are not ideal, and are often prohibited in self-storage. These items can pose risks to the facility, other stored goods, and anyone nearby. Storing dangerous substances could result in fines, damage to property, or even injury.

Examples of hazardous materials include:

• Gasoline, diesel, kerosene, or other fuels
• Propane or butane canisters
• Paint thinners, solvents, or other flammable liquids
• Explosives, fireworks, or ammunition
• Chemical-based cleaning products
• Fertilisers

If you need to store items like lawnmowers or other equipment that use fuel, make sure they are emptied and cleaned before storage. Alternatively, be sure to chat to your storage provider, as this can all differ depending on who you choose. 

2. Food Items

Food that spoils quickly should never be kept in a storage unit. Perishable food not only attracts pests like rodents and insects but can also lead to mould, odours, and unsanitary conditions. These issues can spread to other storage units, causing widespread damage.

Avoid storing:

• Fresh fruits, vegetables, or dairy products
• Meat, poultry, or seafood
• Baked goods or anything prone to spoiling

The only exception may be canned goods or non-perishable food items, but even these should be stored with caution to avoid attracting pests.

3. Plants

Self-storage units are not suitable environments for plants. The absence of natural light, fresh air, and temperature control makes storage units harmful for living things. 

Never store:

• Houseplants, flowers, or garden plants

If you need to temporarily house your pets or plants, consider other options, such as leaving them with a friend or family member or using a pet or plant care service.

On another note, we’d highly advise against storing any pets! That includes (fish and reptiles)

4.Wet or Damp Items

Moisture is a storage unit’s worst enemy. Storing wet or damp items can lead to mould, mildew, and rust, which not only damages your belongings but can also spread to other units. Even if your items don’t seem wet, moisture can seep into fabric or wood over time, leading to long-term damage.

Avoid storing:

• Recently washed clothes or bedding that haven’t fully dried
• Wet sporting equipment
• Damp furniture or wooden items
• Anything exposed to water or moisture before being placed in storage

Make sure that all items are dry and clean before putting them in storage to prevent moisture-related damage.

5.Strong Scented Items

Items with strong odours can attract pests or cause unpleasant smells that can be long lasting. Certain materials can also become damaged by prolonged exposure to scents, making storage a less viable option for strongly scented goods.

Our tips on storing Items that need preparation

Vehicles, motorcycles, or even machinery can be stored in certain storage facilities, but they must be prepared properly. Leaving petrol in the tank, oil in the engine, or failing to disconnect the battery can lead to safety hazards such as leaks, fires, or chemical corrosion.

Ensure the following before storing:

• All fuel tanks are emptied
• Any batteries are disconnected to avoid power drainage or electrical issues
• Vehicles are covered and cleaned to prevent damage during storage

Always check with the storage facility to ensure they can accommodate vehicle storage and follow the proper guidelines.

Following this…

Electronics are often fine to store as long as they are properly protected. However, leaving electronics in an environment prone to humidity, dust, or extreme temperatures can cause serious damage. If your storage unit is not climate-controlled, it may not be suitable for sensitive electronics like computers, televisions, or audio equipment.

Steps to protect electronics:

• Use anti-static packaging materials
• Store in original boxes if available
• Consider climate-controlled storage for long-term protection

Final thoughts 

Knowing what you shouldn’t store in your self-storage unit is just as important as understanding what you can. By avoiding hazardous, perishable, or sensitive items, you can ensure that your belongings are stored safely and securely, while also preventing damage to other units in the facility. Before moving anything into storage, double-check the facility’s guidelines to ensure you’re complying with all restrictions.

Ultimately, self-storage can provide a great solution for a wide range of items—but some things are better off kept elsewhere!