Self-storage units offer a secure and convenient way to store personal belongings, business supplies, and seasonal items. But not everything is allowed inside a storage unit—and knowing the rules is crucial for safety, legal compliance, and protecting your stored items. Many renters are surprised to learn that certain items are prohibited due to fire hazards, health risks, environmental concerns, or insurance restrictions.

Whether you’re renting a unit for the first time or reviewing your current storage setup, here are the essential items you should never store in a self-storage unit, along with the reasons why.

1. Perishable Food and Open Food Items

Food is one of the top banned items in storage units—and for good reason.

Food items can:

• Spoil quickly
  
  

• Attract rodents and insects
  
  

• Cause mold and bad odors
  
  

• Damage other customers’ belongings
  
  

Items like cereal boxes, canned goods, bread, pet food, and leftovers should never be placed in storage. Even sealed food can attract pests.

2. Flammable or Combustible Materials

Anything that can ignite, explode, or release hazardous fumes is strictly prohibited.

Examples include:

• Gasoline
  
  

• Propane tanks
  
  

• Lighter fluid
  
  

• Kerosene
  
  

• Paint thinner
  
  

• Motor oil
  
  

• Fireworks
  
  

• Solvents
  
  

• Aerosol cans
  
  

These substances pose a major fire risk, and most storage facilities—including TGI Storage Fort Morgan—have strict rules preventing them from being stored.

3. Hazardous Chemicals and Toxic Materials

Chemicals that are corrosive, toxic, or reactive are not allowed in storage units. These materials can cause property damage and serious health risks if they leak.

Examples include:

• Pesticides
  
  

• Fertilizers
  
  

• Batteries containing acid
  
  

• Pool chemicals
  
  

• Bleach in large quantities
  
  

• Laboratory chemicals
  
  

If you’re unsure whether a chemical is allowed, it’s best to contact the facility.

4. Live Plants

Plants need sunlight, water, and airflow—none of which is available inside a storage unit. Storing plants can lead to:

• Mold growth
  
  

• Pest infestations
  
  

• Dead or decaying plants that attract insects
  
  

Plants should always be stored in a climate where they can survive naturally.

5. Living Animals (or Anything Alive)

It may seem obvious, but some people mistakenly try to leave pets in storage units temporarily. This is extremely dangerous and illegal.

Storage units are not ventilated or climate-controlled for living beings. Never store:

• Pets
  
  

• Insects
  
  

• Aquatic animals
  
  

• Livestock
  
  

• Reptiles
  
  

Nothing that breathes should ever be placed in storage.

6. Stolen Items or Illegal Goods

Storage facilities cannot legally house items that were obtained unlawfully or that violate federal, state, or local regulations.

These include:

• Stolen merchandise
  
  

• Illegal drugs
  
  

• Weapons obtained unlawfully
  
  

• Counterfeit items
  
  

Storing illegal goods can lead to criminal charges and immediate eviction from the facility.

7. Unregistered or Inoperable Vehicles

While most storage facilities allow vehicle storage, certain rules apply. Vehicles must:

• Have a valid title
  
  

• Be registered
  
  

• Be insured
  
  

• Be operational
  
  

Abandoned or inoperable vehicles are not allowed. If you need safe vehicle storage, TGI Storage Fort Morgan offers secure units and outdoor spaces—call (970) 867-0321 for details.

8. Wet or Damp Items

Moisture is the enemy of storage. Storing damp items can cause:

• Mold and mildew
  
  

• Bad odors
  
  

• Damage to clothing and furniture
  
  

• Rust on metal items
  
  

Always dry items thoroughly before placing them in storage.

9. Cash and High-Value Jewelry

While storage units are secure, they are not designed to store cash, expensive jewelry, or irreplaceable heirlooms. These belong in a safe deposit box or specialized secured location.

10. Firearms and Ammunition (Varies by State)

Many storage facilities prohibit:

• Guns
  
  

• Ammunition
  
  

• Explosives
  
  

Not because firearms themselves are dangerous, but because ammunition is often classified as a hazardous material. Check your facility’s rules first.

Why These Rules Matter

Storage restrictions exist to:

• Protect your belongings
  
  

• Keep other customers safe
  
  

• Maintain facility insurance compliance
  
  

• Prevent fires and chemical hazards
  
  

• Reduce pest issues
  
  

Following these guidelines ensures a clean, safe, and reliable storage environment for everyone.

Store Safely With a Trusted Facility

If you’re storing personal belongings, appliances, seasonal items, or business inventory, choosing a reputable facility makes all the difference. TGI Storage Fort Morgan provides clean, secure, and well-maintained units designed to keep your items safe. Their team can guide you on what is allowed and help you pick the right size unit for your needs. Call (970) 867-0321 today to check availability.