So, you’re ready to declutter your life and rent a storage unit. That’s fantastic! It’s a great way to free up space and reduce stress. But before you start tossing everything into boxes, let’s talk about what not to do. Trust us, preventing problems now will save you headaches later.
Avoid These Storage Unit No-Nos
Storing Wet or Dirty Items: This is an important tip to keep in mind always. Moisture is the enemy of your belongings. Mold and mildew love damp environments, and your storage unit is no exception. Make sure everything is completely dry before storing, and give items a good clean to prevent attracting pests.
Hoarding Food: While it might be tempting to store non-perishable food items in your storage unit, it’s generally not a good idea. Rodents and insects are attracted to food, and you don’t want to share your storage space with unwanted roommates.
Ignoring Temperature and Humidity: Some items are sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations. Electronics, musical instruments, and artwork are examples. If you’re storing these items, consider using climate-controlled storage units.
Storing Flammable or Hazardous Materials: This is a big no-no. Gasoline, paint, chemicals, and other flammable substances are not allowed in most storage units. They pose a fire hazard and can be dangerous.
Overloading Boxes: You might think you’re saving space by cramming as much as possible into a box, but this can actually cause more problems. Overloaded boxes are more likely to collapse, and you could injure yourself when trying to move them.
Skipping the Labels: You might think you’ll remember what’s in each box, but chances are you won’t. Labeling your boxes clearly with a number and creating a details master list will save you time and frustration when you need to find something.
Neglecting Pest Prevention: Even the cleanest items can attract pests. Consider using mothballs or cedar blocks to deter unwanted visitors.
Additional Tips
- Take photos of your belongings: This can be helpful for insurance purposes.
- Invest in quality packing materials: Good quality boxes and packing paper will protect your items.
- Elevate items off the floor: This helps prevent damage from moisture and pests.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your belongings are safe and sound in your storage unit. If you have any questions about what can or cannot be stored, don’t hesitate to contact your local self-storage facility.