Self-storage is a convenient and accessible way to organize your belongings without taking up precious space in your home. While many people assume that they can keep anything in storage units, the truth is that there are safety and liability restrictions in place that should be honored. Storage space is a precious commodity, and it’s up to you as a tenant to ensure that you’re familiar with the facility’s rules about what you may and may not store. Staying within the guidelines will not only keep your content safe, but will help you to avoid damage, fees, and fines as well. 

3 Things to Keep Out of Your Storage Unit

1. Perishable Items

Many people assume that they can keep human or dog food in a storage unit—especially when the food was purchased in bulk and cannot be stored conveniently at home. While it may seem harmless, perishable food items will spoil quickly and begin to attract pests or even grow harmful mold. Unwanted bugs, rodents, or spores can create a toxic environment within the storage unit and are sure to earn you a fine from the storage provider.

2. Toxic or Flammable Solutions

Items that are flammable or toxic, like fireworks, paint thinner, cleaning solutions, gasoline, or motor oil are all prohibited—and with good reason. While most storage spaces are temperature-controlled, an enclosed area is enough to cause pressure to build and promote combustion. To ensure total safety for your other items, keep all of your toxic and flammable materials at home instead. 

3. Weaponry

Guns and ammunition of any kind are not allowed to be kept in a storage unit. While you may have a license for your particular piece of weaponry, it can be extremely dangerous to keep them locked up in an off-site unit. If you are an avid gun collector and have a variety of outdated weaponry that is only valuable as an antique, your storage facility may have certain exceptions and will allow you to store it under particular conditions. Before you assume that your vintage gun collection is ok to keep in storage, ask a manager for confirmation. 

Looking for a way to organize your extra clutter in Lexington, SC? If so, consider working with EZ Storage. For almost 20 years, they have provided convenient, affordable, and easily-accessible storage space for residents all over the area. Offering 24/7 access to your items and unmatched, high-tech security features, you can trust that your most valued items are in safe hands. For more help, call a representative at (803) 808-9328.