What can you store in a storage unit

A storage unit is a good choice if you have run out of space at home, but there are other situations where you may use them too.

You could be moving home, redecorating it or downsizing as you get older and for all of these options, a self storage unit provides a secure space to keep your items safe.

But while you’ll find there’s a long list of things you can store, there are a number of items that are on the exclude list that every self storage company will tell you to keep out of their units.

If you understand what can and can’t go in to your unit, you wont be wasting your time and will know what exactly can go in your unit, while at the same time protecting your things from damage and helping make sure everyone stays safe.

Some Common Things You Can Store

Most self storage rooms are designed for everyday household possessions.

Think of them as a variation on your home, a clean, secure room where you can put things that you don’t need access to daily.

All sorts of everyday household things are stored in self storage units, think of furniture, lockers, and appliances such as fridges, microwaves, or washing machines.

Many people use storage when moving house or between tenancies, and this way everything can be kept until they get settled.

You can also store electricals, such as TVs, computers and sound systems, so long as they are packed to avoid damage or mildew.

Seasonal goods such as Christmas decorations are also popular stored articles, with them being in self storage it frees up attic and cupboard space in the home.

Some stores have been known to use self storage to keep clothing and equipment there. It’s a simple way to store stocks of goods that does not entail renting a complete warehouse, as most storage depots are provided with CCTV security, alarm systems and 24-hour access for easy use.

Furniture and Household Storage

When it comes to furniture storage, storage rooms are an excellent way to keep everything stored from couches to dining tables in good condition but you can take steps to keep them protected further.

If you are storing wooden goods the type of cover you use on them can keep them from getting damaged. With all of your items you should also make sure that there is plenty of air surrounding the pieces to prevent bacteria from growing, so they should be stored off the floor and covered.

They are also an excellent place for large or bulky goods too large to store at home. For instance, if you are having a new house built or are renovating your home, your possessions have a safe storage place until your home is ready again.

Business and Commercial Storage

A lot of small businesses utilise self storage as they are cheap storage solution for business tools, marketing utensils or merchandise.

In particular it is useful for e-commerce owners who are looking for secure storage space so that they can keep stock safe from rodents, mould or injury.

A good storage company will ensure your units are well lit, dry and under CCTV, giving you peace of mind that your goods are safe from subsequent theft 24 hours a day.

Vehicles and Outside Equipment

Provided the storage depot allows it, certain vehicles like motorbikes, bicycles, or scooters can be accommodated safely in a storage depot.

Check with the storage facility first, as each location has its own restrictions for access and sizes.

Storage units are also popular choices for outdoor and sports equipment, such as tents, golf clubs or skis. Keeping these bulky items out of the garage or shed at home will give you more room for daily living requirements.

What Not to Store

There are many things that are not permissible in storage units, mainly for reasons of hygiene and safety.

Storage facilities are strictly controlled to prevent accidents, infection or damage to neighbours’ units.

Hazardous materials such as petrol, chemicals, gas canisters, fireworks or paint should not be stored. These items can be explosive or combustible and represent a direct threat to staff and visitors.

Weapons and firearms, ammunition, money, important documents and illegal items are also not permissible.

Nor should food or garden plants be stored, as this could attract rodents and insects, which would create mould or spread bacteria. Animals of any sort in storage facilities should not be stored, as living things are not suited to living conditions provided by storage areas.

How to keep your belongings safe

Even with a secure storage unit the way you pack your belongings will make a big difference. Use strong cardboard boxes with labels, pack heavy things at the bottom and use bubble wrap on fragile goods.

Wet or damp objects should not be packed. Ensure that all units are absolutely free of moisture before closing the boxes. It is worth spending this time now to avoid inconvenience later when it is wanted back in the home again.

With electrical goods, remove the batteries and ensure that they are kept covered. With furniture, allow ventilation to avoid moisture build up.

Storage facilities have clean dry rooms, but the best conditions will keep your goods in first class condition.

Why Use Self Storage at All?

Use a self-storage unit and you have better control over your living or working conditions. You choose the size of the unit required, from a small store to big enough to hold the contents of a big home, utilising the muscular assistance of the storage facility if required.

Flexibility of access is another advantage. Many providers allow access every day of the year, therefore, if units are required to remove or add goods at will. With 24 cctv and staff on duty, peace of mind is complete in the knowledge that any desired goods are quite safe.