What Items Should You Never Store in Your Storage Unit in Helena, Montana?

Silvertip Storage
April 14th, 2024

Storage units are a great way to declutter your house and make more room in your garage, yard or home. However, there are some items that don’t make sense to put in storage or can even be dangerous if not stored properly. Using a storage unit in Helena, Montana can be even more tricky with all our seasonal changes, which gives us a wider range of items we need for safe storage. Read on to learn about 9 best storage unit practices of things you shouldn’t keep in your self-storage facility.

1. Hazardous Materials:

Flammable, explosive, or toxic materials pose a danger to both your belongings and the facility. This includes gasoline, propane tanks, chemicals, and fireworks. Properly dispose of these items or find appropriate storage alternatives.

2. Perishable Food:

Storing food in a storage unit invites pests and odors. Even canned goods can attract rodents and insects, leading to contamination and potential health hazards. Whether it’s food or your typical item, it never hurts to use secure containers that are pest and rodent resistant. Cardboard boxes or containers with no lids obviously makes it easier for these undesirables to get into your stuff, especially when Helena goes through its extreme weather swings.

3. Temperature Sensitive Items:

East Helena and Helena residents know how touchy Montana weather can be. This is why it’s important to consider what types of items you are storing. Before the scorching summer temperatures or freezing winter temperatures, be sure to get your temperature sensitive items into the appropriate climate. This includes many items we’ve already covered like chemicals, electronics, food, etc. Checkout some more weather related tips with our tips on Summer Toys and Winterizing Your Storage Unit.

4. Living Things:

This might seem obvious, but it's worth mentioning: don't store living creatures in your unit. It's neither safe nor humane. Pets, plants, and even yourself (yes, people have tried it) have no place in storage units.

5. Illegal or Stolen Goods:

This should go without saying, but storing anything illegal or stolen in a storage unit is a recipe for disaster. Not only is it morally wrong, but it can also lead to legal trouble.

6. Uninsured Items:

Before stashing away your belongings, check your insurance policy. Some items, like artwork, antiques, or electronics, might require additional coverage. Without proper insurance, you risk losing everything in case of theft, damage, or natural disasters.

7. Antiques & Electronics:

While properly storing our items will avoid 99% of accidents, that 1% can sometimes haunt you. If you have antiques or perhaps electronics that are more important to you, it’s very important you secure them safely. Don’t cram your more important items into confined spaces. Take extra time, use extra packing supplies and be more thoughtful with the items that are most dear to your heart.

8. Valuables:

Items of high monetary or sentimental value should be kept close. While storage units are generally secure, they're not impervious to theft or damage. Keep your jewelry, cash, important documents, and family heirlooms elsewhere. 9. Vehicle Storage Tips:

Silvertip Storage does offer outdoor unit storage units at a discounted price for vehicles like RVs, Cars and Boats. It’s important to remember to follow these above guidelines for both storage units and our vehicles we’re storing on premises.

Ultimately, when deciding what to store, use common sense. If you wouldn't want it damaged, stolen, or infested, keep it out of the storage unit. Invest in quality packing materials, choose a reputable storage facility, and take the time to properly prepare your items for storage. By doing so, you can ensure your belongings remain safe and sound until you need them again. At Silvertip Storage, we value all of our Helena and East Helena storage unit customers. If you have any questions or need advice on how you should store your items, give us a call at (406) 389-8120.

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