Storage units provide a safe and secure place to house a wide variety of items, including furniture, fine art, sensitive documents, family heirlooms, and seasonal equipment. Despite the many belongings you can safely house in your self-storage unit, it can’t hold everything. Learn about some of the prohibited items to maintain a healthy unit environment that adheres to the facility’s rules.

What You Shouldn’t Put in Your Storage Unit

1. Anything Perishable

Perishable foods attract insects, mice, and rats. These pests contribute to an unhealthy, unsanitary storage facility and damage your belongings via waste, claws, teeth, and burrowing practices. Your unit should remain free of all food, including cuisine for pets, to keep insects and rodents out.

2. Living Beings

Anything alive, from plants to pets, does not belong in a self-storage unit. Plants are deprived of water, light, and fresh air and will likely die in addition to attracting insects and rodents. Leaving pets in storage units is unsafe, as they are by themselves in small, dark spaces and may not have enough food and water. Do not keep your cat or dog inside under any circumstances, even if it’s only for a short time.

3. Weapons

Storing weapons is strictly prohibited by storage facilities for a variety of legal and safety reasons. Even antique firearms are not welcome at any facility because an accident could harm you, someone else, or their property.

4. Flammable, Toxic, or Combustible Materials & Liquids

Safety is a huge concern at storage facilities, making flammable, toxic, or combustible materials and liquids off-limits. Store and dispose of gasoline, paint thinner, motor oil, fireworks, cleaning solvents, propane tanks, corrosives, and toxic waste responsibly to maintain a secure facility.

5. Unregistered Vehicles

While vehicle storage is available at many facilities, unregistered cars and trucks are not. Your vehicle must be functional with up-to-date insurance, licensing, and registration, as you are liable for any damage. If your vehicle is broken-down, repair it or sell it for spare parts instead of letting it sit in a unit.

For more information on what you should and should not keep in your storage unit, get in touch with the team at Treweek Mini Storage in Kalispell, MT. The staff has provided Flathead Valley residents with high-quality storage solutions since 1978. Featuring 300 units, month-to-month rates, U-Haul® rentals, and advanced security, this facility has everything you need to store your items safely. Packing materials are sold on site, as well. Call (406) 752-2835 or visit their website to learn more about their units.