Self storage units have become incredibly popular for homeowners and businesses alike. Whether you’re decluttering, renovating, or simply seeking extra space, self storage units offer a convenient solution to keep your belongings safe and organized.
However, it’s not as simple as packing up everything and locking the door. There are clear guidelines about what’s safe and practical to store—and what isn’t. Following these rules isn’t just about compliance; it’s about keeping your items in good condition, ensuring safety, and avoiding unnecessary headaches.
This guide will highlight exactly what you should and shouldn’t place in a self storage unit, so you can make the most of your rented space. Plus, we’ll share bonus tips to help you maximize efficiency in your unit.
Why Choose a Self Storage Unit?
Before we get into the specifics, it’s worth noting why self storage units have grown in popularity. Here are some reasons people turn to storage solutions:
Extra Space
Self storage units are perfect for decluttering homes and offices without having to permanently part with your items. Whether it’s extra furniture, seasonal items, or family keepsakes, they provide much-needed breathing room.
Temporary Storage
Moving to a new home? Renovating your office? Storage units act as a temporary space to safely store your belongings during periods of transition.
Secure Storage
Most facilities offer security measures like 24/7 surveillance and gated access, giving you peace of mind that your items are in safe hands.
Seasonal or Business Storage
You can store equipment that’s only needed during specific seasons, or inventory to keep your office clear and organized. It’s an affordable solution for many small business owners.
Now that we know why they’re useful, let’s talk about what goes in—and what stays out.
What You Should Store in a Self Storage Unit
1. Furniture and Household Items
Self storage units are ideal for bulky household items. Whether moving or redecorating, consider placing couches, tables, bed frames, and appliances in storage.
- Pro Tip: Wrap your furniture in protective covers to prevent damage from dust, moisture, or scratches.
2. Seasonal Equipment
If your garage is overflowing with skis, camping gear, or holiday decorations, a self storage unit might be what you need.
- Examples: Store snow gear during summer or garden tools in winter. This frees up precious space at home for items you use year-round.
3. Business Inventory or Files
Small business owners often use storage units for inventory overflow or archive documents. It’s an affordable and practical way to organize your workspace.
- Efficiency: Use shelving to keep items labeled and accessible.
4. Clothing and Personal Belongings
Rotating your wardrobe during the seasons? Self storage is perfect for storing off-season clothing like winter coats, summer dresses, or items you’re saving for future use.
- Pro Tip: Use vacuum-sealed bags to save space and protect your clothing from dust and moisture.
What You Shouldn’t Store in a Self Storage Unit
1. Perishable Items
While it may be tempting to store that bulk pack of snacks or extra fridge items, avoid storing anything perishable, including food and plants.
Why Not? These can attract pests, cause unpleasant odors, and lead to spoilage inside your unit.
2. Hazardous Materials
Safety regulations prohibit storing flammable, explosive, or otherwise hazardous substances in self storage units.
Examples:
- Gasoline
- Propane tanks
- Paint or chemicals
- Fireworks
Safety Tip: Always check the facility’s guidelines to keep your unit safe.
3. Illegal or Stolen Items
This one’s straightforward—storing illegal or stolen goods is against the law. Facilities have a right to inspect contents if they suspect unlawful activity.
4. Living Things
This might sound obvious, but storage units are not suitable for pets, plants, or humans. It’s unsafe, unethical, and against every storage facility’s policy. If you’re looking for temporary solutions for living things, other options are more suitable.
5. Valuables and Irreplaceable Items
While self storage units are secure, items like family heirlooms, cash, expensive jewelry, or crucial documents are best stored in safety deposit boxes or secure home safes. This offers an added layer of protection.
Bonus Tips for Maximizing Your Storage Space
Want to make the most of your self storage unit? Here’s how to stay organized and efficient when packing your belongings:
Use Clear Bins
Transparent bins allow you to see the contents easily without having to search through each box. This saves time when you need to retrieve items.
Label Everything
Whether it’s a bin, box, or bag, label it. Clear labeling makes it easy to locate items without unpacking your entire unit.
Stack Strategically
Place heavier, more durable items like furniture and bins at the bottom, and stack lighter, more fragile items on top.
Leave a Walkway
By creating a small aisle, you can access all corners of your unit without having to shift or unpack boxes unnecessarily.
Disassemble Large Items
Break down furniture like bed frames to save space and make storage more efficient.
Storing Smartly for Safety and Peace of Mind
Using a self storage unit can simplify your life—whether you’re making space at home, managing a transition, or running a business. But it’s important to be mindful of what you’re storing.
Choosing the right items not only ensures safety and security but also helps you stay organized and stress-free. Before storing, always double-check the facility’s storage guidelines to avoid unnecessary issues.
Looking for reliable storage options? Contact us today, and we’ll help you find the perfect self storage unit for your needs!
