Self storage is a convenient solution for decluttering, moving, or storing business inventory—but not everything belongs in a storage unit. Certain items can be dangerous, illegal, or prone to damage, making them unsuitable for storage.
Knowing what not to store helps protect your belongings, ensures safety, and keeps you compliant with storage facility rules.
Storage facilities have restrictions to prevent:
Fire hazards
Pest infestations
Health risks
Legal issues
Damage to other tenants’ belongings
Understanding these rules helps you avoid penalties or loss of access to your unit.
Food should never be stored in a storage unit.
Examples include:
Fresh or frozen food
Open food containers
Pantry goods
Food attracts pests like rodents and insects, which can damage not only your items but also nearby units.
Flammable or dangerous substances are strictly prohibited.
Avoid storing:
Gasoline or propane tanks
Paints and chemicals
Fireworks or explosives
Cleaning solvents
These items pose serious safety risks and can lead to fires or toxic exposure.
This may seem obvious, but it’s important:
Never store pets or animals
Avoid storing plants that require care
Storage units are not livable spaces
Lack of ventilation and proper care can quickly become dangerous.
Moisture can cause major problems in storage.
Avoid placing:
Wet clothing or fabrics
Damp furniture
Recently used appliances with water inside
These items can develop mold and mildew, spreading damage to other belongings.
Storage units cannot be used for illegal purposes.
This includes:
Stolen property
Illegal substances
Unauthorized weapons or materials
Violating laws can result in serious legal consequences.
Some facilities have strict rules regarding vehicle storage.
Vehicles may need to be registered and insured
Fuel levels may be limited
Leaks must be addressed
Always check facility policies before storing a vehicle.
While storage units are secure, it’s best to avoid storing extremely valuable or irreplaceable items such as:
Cash
Rare jewelry
Important legal documents
Consider safer alternatives like bank safety deposit boxes for these items.
Strong-smelling items can affect other units and attract pests.
Avoid storing:
Garbage or waste
Open chemicals
Items with lingering odors
Proper cleaning before storage is essential.
Certain batteries can leak or corrode over time.
Remove batteries from devices
Avoid storing damaged electronics
Dispose of hazardous batteries properly
This prevents damage and safety risks.
Understanding storage rules is just as important as choosing the right facility.
Storage Unit of Dickinson provides clean, secure storage units and clear guidelines on what can and cannot be stored. Their team is ready to help you store your items safely and correctly. Call (701) 690-5512 for more information before moving your belongings in.
Avoid these common storage errors:
Storing food or liquids
Forgetting to dry items before storage
Ignoring facility rules
Storing hazardous materials
Assuming all items are allowed
A little preparation goes a long way in preventing problems.
Self storage is a powerful tool for organization and space management—but only when used correctly. Knowing what not to store helps protect your belongings, your safety, and others around you.
For safe, secure, and reliable storage solutions, trust Storage Unit of Dickinson. Call (701) 690-5512 today to reserve your unit and store with confidence.