Star City Self Storage Blog

Self-storage units are a convenient solution when you need extra space for personal belongings, business supplies, or even seasonal items. However, not everything can be stored in a storage unit. Knowing what’s allowed and what’s prohibited will ensure the safety of your items and help you comply with our guidelines here at Star City Self Storage in Roanoke, VA. What Can Be Stored in a Self Storage Unit 1. Furniture Whether you’re moving, renovating, or simply decluttering, storage units are perfect for storing furniture. You can store everything from sofas, tables, and chairs to mattresses and bed frames. Make sure to clean and protect them to avoid damage during storage. 2. Appliances If you have appliances like refrigerators, washers, dryers, or microwaves that aren’t in use, they can be safely stored. Before storing them, clean them thoroughly, and ensure they’re dry to prevent mold or mildew. 3. Seasonal Items Holiday decorations, winter clothing, and summer gear can take up a lot of room in your home. A storage unit is a great way to keep these seasonal items safe until you need them again. 4. Clothing and Personal Items Boxes of clothing, accessories, and personal belongings can be easily stored. To protect fabrics and items from dust and damage, consider using vacuum-sealed bags or plastic bins. 5. Business Inventory and Equipment Small business owners often use storage units to store extra inventory, office equipment, or documents. This is a great way to free up office space while keeping items safe and accessible. 6. Vehicles If you have an extra car, motorcycle, or boat that you don’t use year-round, Star City Self Storage offers spacious units to store vehicles. Just be sure the vehicle is registered and insured before storing. 7. Books, Documents, and Media Books, records, old files, and media like DVDs or CDs can be stored safely in a unit. Make sure to keep them in sturdy boxes to protect them from dust and damage. What Can’t Be Stored in a Self Storage Unit 1. Hazardous Materials Flammable, toxic, or explosive materials are strictly prohibited. This includes items like gasoline, propane, chemicals, paint, fireworks, and cleaning solvents. Storing these items poses a risk to the facility and other units. 2. Perishable Food Items Any type of perishable food, such as fresh produce, meat, or dairy, is not allowed in a storage unit. These items can attract pests, spoil, and cause unpleasant odors. While non-perishable items like canned goods are allowed, we advise caution to avoid pests. 3. Living Organisms No pets, plants, or other living creatures can be kept in a storage unit. The conditions in a storage facility are not suitable for living things, and storing them would violate both safety and ethical guidelines. 4. Weapons and Ammunition Firearms, ammunition, and other weapons should not be stored in self-storage units. These items can pose a significant danger, especially if the unit isn’t temperature-controlled, and they must be stored in secure, legal facilities. 5. Stolen or Illegal Items Any items that are stolen, illegal, or prohibited by law cannot be stored. This includes illegal drugs, counterfeit goods, and other contraband. Storage facilities are bound by law to prohibit such items. 6. Scented or Fragile Items Items that emit strong odors, such as perfumes, cleaning products, or other chemicals, are best avoided as they can affect neighboring units. Additionally, overly fragile items that could break easily during storage may not fare well without proper protection. 7. Cash and High-Value Jewelry While we offer secure units, it’s best to avoid storing cash, high-value jewelry, or irreplaceable heirlooms. These items should be stored in a secure location like a safe or a bank deposit box to guarantee their safety. How to Store Your Items Safely Once you’ve determined what’s allowed in your unit, it’s important to pack and organize your belongings properly. Here are a few tips for safe and efficient storage: Use Protective Covers: For furniture and mattresses, use covers to protect them from dust and moisture. Stack Boxes Properly: Place heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top to prevent crushing. Label Everything: Clearly label each box with its contents to make finding items easier later on. Leave Space for Access: When storing items, try to leave a walkway in your unit so you can easily access items without moving everything around. Conclusion Choosing what to store in your unit at Star City Self Storage is simple when you follow our guidelines. From household items to business inventory, our storage units provide the perfect solution for your needs. However, it’s crucial to avoid storing prohibited items to ensure safety and compliance with facility regulations. If you’re ready to rent a unit or have questions about what can or can’t be stored, our team is here to help. Contact us today for more information or to reserve your unit!