Things You Can't Store in Any Self Storage Facility in California
The most important decision you'll ever make regarding a self-storage facility will be based on where you need to store your things. What's also important is knowing which things you cannot put in a self-storage unit. Because of the hot summer months and varying temperatures, some items are specifically off-limits due to potential pest infestations, bad odors, fire hazards and potential violations of both state and facility regulations.
As a Green's Storage Escondido customer service representative, we assist our customers daily in protecting their property. For this reason, we've made a list of common items you shouldn't attempt to store in a self-storage unit to help prevent problems with pests, bad odors and to help you understand why you must follow California regulations and Green's Storage regulations.
Why Certain Items Are Not Allowed in Self-Storage Facilities
Self-storage facilities were created for people to store furniture, household items, office equipment, boxes and other general household items. Anyhow, the design of the self-storage facilities are not meant for holding perishable items, hazardous material or any thing that could leak, get spoiled or could catch on fire. It is recommended to avoid them due to the extreme fluctuation of temperatures in Escondido, CA. Few items can be dangerous if not stored properly. So that’s why it's important to keep these things away from your other valuable items to ensure there’s no moisture, pests or safety issues.
It is crucial to learn how improper storage can cause serious safety threats; by following these guidelines, you will be able to protect your items from harm and also abide by California's regulations and Green Storage policies.
Food and other Perishable Items:
All foods of any type should never be placed into a self-storage unit. No matter how well things are sealed in the container or how “safe” the content may appear to be; all food will attract pests and rodents when they are exposed to conditions that are in the units. When there’s a spoiled food item in the self storage unit; it can create an odor that can spread easily through the entire facility.
Examples of Perishable Foods and Drinks to Avoid:
- Fresh food
- Canned food
- Pet food
- Bottled drinks and sealed beverages
- Any food item that can rot, mold or attract pests should never be stored in a self-storage unit.
- Flammable or Hazardous Materials
The California state guidelines for storage units prohibit the storage of any living item (plants, pets, etc.) in a storage unit due to the potential for harm to both humans and animals; and from an ethical standpoint, the possible harm to the living item itself.
Do Not Store:
- Propane Tanks
- Paint, paint thinner, varnish
- Aerosol Cans
- Fireworks
- Cleaning products and chemicals
- Fertilizer
- Gas or Diesel
If it is labeled as being "explosive," "reactive" or "flammable," it must be stored outside of your unit.
Live Animals and Living Plants
Although this seems obvious, it needs to be said: no live animals or living plants can be stored in a self-storage unit. Animals and aquariums are strictly prohibited for safety and ethical reasons, and plants are prohibited because they will attract pests and will usually wilt in low airflow storage facilities.
Moisture-Ridden Items
One of the biggest contributing factors to mold in self-storage units in Escondido is the storage of the items that contain moisture. Whether it’s a mattress, towel, blanket, or any piece of furniture that has been recently washed and is still damp, it can retain that moisture for weeks. Moisture breeds mold, and it rapidly travels across to surrounding objects.
Do Not Store Wet Clothing/Towels:
Newly Washed Appliances
- Wet Outdoor Gear
- Anything That Hasn't Fully Dried
- Always allow your items to completely dry before putting them in storage.
- Illegal or Stolen Goods
California Regulations and Green's Storage Policies Strictly Prohibit the Storage of Illegal Items, Stolen Property, and/or Anything Used for Unlawful Purposes. Storage Units are Not Private Hiding Places; They Are Protected and Monitored Spaces Designed for Legitimate Personal and Business Use.
Firearms and Ammunition
Since firearms and ammunition create safety risks in standard storage conditions, storing them in self-storage facilities is discouraged. Extreme heat can affect ammunition and stored weapons must be secured in a manner consistent with California safety regulations. Always Check Local Laws and Utilize Secure Locations Specifically Designed for Weapon Storage.
Vehicles (Registered and Operable)
Green's Storage Escondido does offer vehicle storage, however, any vehicle stored on site must be registered, insured and in operational condition. All vehicles that are leaking fluids, RV's with propane tanks attached and/or trailers with hazardous materials pose a serious safety hazard.
When You Store a Vehicle:
- Remove any propane tanks
- Ensure that the vehicle does not leak any fluids
- Maintain Registration and Insurance Current
- Large Amounts of Cash and Valuable Items
While storage units are secure, they are not designed to replace a safe or a deposit box at a financial institution. Large quantities of money, expensive jewelry, rare collectibles and any large quantity of cash should be stored in a more secure location than a standard storage unit.
High Value Belongings That May Be Stored, Ask About a Climate Controlled Unit or Enhanced Protection Options
Strong Smells and Odor Producing Items
Smells can quickly travel through storage units. Items as candles, soap, perfume, cleaning products, etc., can produce those strong fumes that can attract pests or annoy neighboring tenants.
If not avoidable to have an item with a strong scent; try to consider storing it in a sealed container or somewhere else.
Final Safety Tips for Safe Storage in Escondido
Before you move your belongings into a standard storage unit, take a few seconds to review:
- Can this item be flammable?
- Is it possible for it to spoil or attract pests?
- Is this item considered hazardous or illegal?
- Is this too valuable to be left in a storage unit and take the security risk?
- Did the item dry off completely before storing it away?
If any of your answers say otherwise, it would be best advised to skip storing them for good.
Store Your Belongings Safely Today With Green's Storage Escondido
You’re choosing a clean, safe storage facility when you choose Greens Storage Escondido. This facility is designed to protect your valuable belongings. Our trained staff is well-equipped with knowledge on any of your questions and can help guide you through your transition. Call us today to ask any questions on what to store? Ideal storage space? Or even general storage questions.
So are you ready to claim new space? Visit our website or call us now.
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