While storage units provide helpful solutions for safeguarding your possessions, not everything can go inside them. Some items are best kept at home or disposed of, since they may put the safety of people and belongings at risk. As you prepare to move your items into storage, review this list to make sure you’re adhering to safety guidelines. 

Top 4 Items to Keep Out of Storage Units

1. Hazardous Materials

Most facilities prohibit the storage of combustible or flammable materials, including propane or gas tanks, paint, motor oil, and fertilizer. Not only do these items increase the risk of explosions or fire, but they also release toxic fumes that require adequate ventilation. 

2. Food

Perishable items should always be kept out of the storage unit. Even in a climate-controlled facility, there won’t be adequate refrigeration to keep the food from spoiling.

Nonperishables should also be kept out, as the presence of any food can attract rodents and other pests, which could result in damage to your property.

3. Scented Items

Potpourri and other scented decorations could easily be mistaken for food by pests. If liquid scented items were to leak, you could also face property damage and open up your storage unit to find objects soaked in the smell.

4. Plants & Other Living Organisms

Units lack the light and oxygen needed for plants to survive. You’d also have to visit the unit regularly to provide the water your plants need. Their presence could even attract pests to the area.

If you have a plant you want to part ways with, give it to a friend or family member.

For affordable storage units, turn to Paradise Self Storage in Kahului, HI. Serving Maui since 2006, this facility has protected the belongings of customers with features including a gated entrance, surveillance cameras, and electronic access codes. They also carry packing and shipping supplies. View unit sizes on their website or call (808) 877-7783 to discuss your needs.