What Not to Store in a Storage Unit
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Moving can be one of the most stressful events in a person’s life, but it’s also the perfect time for a fresh start. Whether you are downsizing, renovating, or just trying to declutter your home in Canton, GA, a storage unit is often the go-to solution. However, are you familiar with what not to store in a storage unit?
Before you start packing the moving truck, it’s important to know that a storage unit isn't a catch-all for everything in your house. Packing the wrong items can lead to property damage, pest infestations, or even legal trouble.
7 Items You Should Never Store in a Storage Unit
As your local moving experts at Page Relocation, we want your move to be seamless. To help you pack like a pro, we’ve put together this guide of items you should never store in a storage unit.
1. Perishable Food and Pantry Staples
It might be tempting to tuck away those extra bulk bags of rice or canned goods, but storage units are not pantries. Even if items are sealed in plastic or cardboard, the scent can attract rodents and insects. Once pests enter your unit, they won't stop at the food. They’ll move on to your furniture and clothing.
Expert Tip: Use your move as an opportunity to donate unexpired non-perishables to a local food bank. Keep your storage unit reserved for durable items like holiday décor and spare kitchen appliances.
2. Damp or Wet Items
This is a mistake many people make during a rainy Georgia move. Placing a damp rug, wet camping gear, or even slightly moist clothing into a sealed unit is a recipe for disaster.
The Risk: Trapped moisture leads to rapid mold and mildew growth.
The Result: Not only will your items be ruined, but the spores can spread to neighboring units, potentially leaving you liable for damages.
Always ensure everything is 100% dry and use breathable covers rather than airtight plastic wrap.
3. Delicate Natural Fibers Such As Fur and Leather
When deciding between climate-controlled vs. standard self-storage, the materials of your belongings matter most. Fur coats and leather sofas are extremely sensitive to humidity. In a standard unit, the Georgia heat can cause natural oils in leather to evaporate, leading to cracking, while furs can rot or develop permanent odors. For these high-value items, always opt for a climate-controlled environment.
4. Irreplaceable Documents and Sentimental Keepsakes
While storage units are generally secure, they aren’t invincible. Fluctuating temperatures can cause old photographs to stick together or yellow, and humidity can make heirloom books smell like mildew. Furthermore, if a building-wide emergency, like a fire or flood, were to occur, these items are irreplaceable.
What to do instead: Keep your birth certificates, passports, and favorite family photo albums in a fireproof safe at your home.
5. Hazardous Materials and Large Batteries
Safety is the number one priority for our storage units in Canton, GA. As such, you should never store:
Propane tanks or gasoline: Highly flammable and can ignite from heat or fumes.
Paints and cleaners: Many contain chemicals that can leak, react, or produce hazardous fumes.
Lithium-ion batteries: These are a significant fire hazard in high-heat environments. If a lithium battery ignites, it is incredibly difficult to extinguish.
These items are regulated under Georgia fire and safety laws, and improper storage can violate fire codes and lead to liability or penalties.
6. Fine Wine and Spirits
If you’re a collector, a standard storage unit is the enemy of a good vintage. Unlike a professional cellar, a standard unit is subject to Georgia’s dramatic temperature swings.
The Damage: Extreme heat can virtually cook the wine, ruining the flavor profile and expanding the liquid enough to push the cork out, leading to oxidation.
The Solution: If you have more bottles than your home rack can handle, skip the self-storage unit and look for a specialized wine storage facility that maintains a consistent 55℉ (13℃) and ideal humidity.
7. Loose Tires
It may surprise you, but many facilities have strict rules against storing loose tires.
Fire Hazard: Tires are considered a significant fire risk. Once they ignite, they burn at extremely high temperatures and release thick, toxic smoke that is incredibly difficult for fire departments to extinguish.
The Mounting Rule: Most facilities only permit tires if they are currently mounted on a registered, operational vehicle. If you have a seasonal set of tires for your SUV, it is much safer to keep them in a cool, dry corner of your garage rather than a storage unit.
Climate-Controlled vs. Standard Self-Storage: Which Do You Need?
Choosing the right type of storage is essential for the longevity of your items.
Standard Storage: Best for items that aren't affected by temperature or humidity, such as plastic outdoor furniture, metal tools, and certain kitchenware.
Climate-Controlled Storage: Essential for electronics, wooden furniture, musical instruments, leather, and artwork. This option maintains a steady temperature and humidity level year-round.
Make Your Move Easy With Page Relocation
Knowing what not to store in a storage unit is the first step toward an organized, stress-free move. The second step is hiring a team that cares about your belongings as much as you do.
At Page Relocation, we specialize in helping Canton residents move their lives safely and efficiently. Whether you're moving into a house or a storage facility, our professional movers ensure your items are handled with the highest level of care.
Ready to get moving?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you store a gun in a storage unit?
Most storage facilities prohibit firearms and ammunition due to safety and liability concerns. While Georgia law does not explicitly ban storing firearms in a storage unit, facility rules often do. Violating those terms can lead to eviction or legal consequences. If you need to store a firearm, look for specialized bonded warehouses or high-security safes at home.
Can I store a car in a storage unit?
Yes, provided the vehicle is operational, insured, and registered in your name, many facilities allow car storage. However, you generally cannot store unregistered or abandoned vehicles. Always check with the facility regarding their specific fluid-leak and registration policies.
Can you live in a storage unit?
No, living in a storage unit violates local building codes and the lease agreement with the storage facility. Doing so will lead to immediate eviction and potential legal action.
Can I sleep in a storage unit?
No, it is illegal and unsafe to sleep or live in a storage unit. Facilities are not zoned for residential use, lack proper ventilation, and lack running water or sanitation.
Don't let your move get stalled by storage mishaps! If you're feeling overwhelmed by what goes where, let Page Relocation take the wheel. We can help you strategize your move so your valuables end up in the right place, safe and sound. Contact us today!
