Storing your belongings can be a great way to free up space and keep things organized. However, not everything is suited for storage, and putting the wrong items away can lead to damage, safety risks, or even legal trouble.
Knowing what not to store can save you time, money, and headaches down the line. If you want to make sure your stuff stays safe and in good condition, it’s important to be selective about what you pack away.
Perishable Food Items
You should never store perishable foods like meat, dairy, or fresh leftovers in long-term storage. These items need consistent refrigeration to stay safe and prevent spoilage.
Storing these foods without proper cooling can cause bacteria to grow quickly. This not only wastes your food but can also create health risks.
If you need to keep food for a long time, focus on non-perishable items instead. That way, you avoid the mess and hazards that come with spoiled goods.
Flammable Liquids
You should never store flammable liquids in ordinary storage areas. These liquids pose serious fire and explosion risks if not kept in approved containers and proper flammable storage cabinets.
Make sure to keep them away from heat sources, ignition points, and incompatible materials. Always use well-ventilated areas designed for flammable liquid storage.
Remember, mixing flammable solids with liquids can increase danger, so they must be stored separately. Regularly inspect your containers for leaks or damage to keep your space safe.
Live Plants
You should avoid storing live plants in a storage unit. They need sunlight, water, and fresh air to survive, none of which a storage unit can provide.
Without these essentials, your plants will quickly wilt and die.
Additionally, dead plants can attract pests and cause mold, creating problems for you and others nearby.
If you need to move your plants, it’s better to ask a friend or family member to care for them temporarily. This way, they stay healthy until you can bring them back.
Important Documents
You should avoid storing important documents in long-term storage units. They can be damaged by moisture, heat, or lost due to theft. Documents like passports, birth certificates, and insurance policies need to be kept safe and easily accessible.
Consider keeping your important papers in a home safe or a secure, organized place. Digital copies can also help, but make sure they’re encrypted and backed up safely. This way, you have peace of mind and quick access when needed.
Leather Furniture
Leather furniture is sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. If stored in a non-climate-controlled unit, it can crack, fade, or dry out.
You should avoid storing leather in places where moisture or heat fluctuates. A climate-controlled environment is best to maintain its condition.
Regular cleaning and conditioning help, but storage can still harm leather over time. If possible, it’s better to keep leather furniture in your home or a stable environment.
Electronics Without Proper Packaging
When storing electronics, you should never leave them without proper packaging. Electronics are sensitive to dust, moisture, and static, which can cause damage over time.
Using the original packaging is best because it fits your device perfectly and offers the right protection. If you don’t have it, wrap your gadgets in anti-static bubble wrap.
Avoid wrapping electronics in plastic sheeting, as it traps moisture and increases the risk of damage. Taking these simple steps helps keep your devices safe while in storage.
