What Can (and Can’t) I Store in a Storage Unit?
When it comes to self-storage, one of the most common questions we hear is: “What can I actually put in my unit?” While storage units are a safe, convenient way to free up extra space, there are a few important rules about what’s allowed—and what isn’t.
At Utah Storage Center, our goal is to keep your belongings (and our facilities) safe, clean, and secure. This guide will help you understand what items are perfectly fine to store, what’s not permitted, and what you should think twice about before placing them in your unit.
What You Can Store
Most everyday household and business items are perfectly safe to keep in a storage unit. Common examples include:
- Furniture & Household Goods: Sofas, tables, chairs, mattresses, and décor.
- Seasonal Items: Holiday decorations, camping gear, sporting equipment, or patio furniture.
- Appliances: Washers, dryers, refrigerators (unplugged and cleaned out).
- Clothing & Linens: Store in sealed bins or vacuum bags for extra protection.
- Business Inventory: Boxes, documents, or supplies (non-hazardous).
- Vehicles: Cars, motorcycles, or small boats (depending on unit size).
If you’re not sure what unit size works best, our updated Storage Unit Size Guide can help.
What You Can’t Store (Prohibited Items)
To keep everyone safe, there are strict rules about items that cannot be stored in a unit:
- Food & Perishables: Even canned or dry goods can attract pests.
- Hazardous Materials: Gasoline, propane, chemicals, paints, fireworks, or anything flammable.
- Plants or Animals: Living things need light, air, and care—not storage units.
- Illegal Items: Anything prohibited by law, including stolen goods or unregistered weapons.
These rules are non-negotiable and help keep your belongings—and everyone else’s—safe.
Items That Can Be Stored, But With Extra Care
Some items are allowed in storage but require special precautions to ensure they stay in good condition:
- Electronics: TVs, computers, or stereos are fine to store but should be packed in padded boxes to protect from dust and temperature swings.
- Musical Instruments: Allowed, but sensitive to cold and heat. Wrap carefully, elevate off the floor, and tune afterward if needed.
- Artwork: Can be stored, but canvas and prints are sensitive to humidity. Wrap in breathable covers and avoid stacking.
- Important Documents: Store in waterproof, sealed containers for extra protection.
Whenever possible, check with your facility manager for best practices.
Storage Tips for Sensitive Items
If you do plan to store sensitive items, a few smart steps go a long way:
- Use plastic bins instead of cardboard to avoid moisture damage.
- Add silica gel packs or moisture absorbers inside containers.
- Keep fragile or high-value items off the floor using pallets or shelving.
- Clearly label all boxes so you can access them quickly when needed.
Why Storage Units Are the Best Choice
Even with these rules in place, an indoor Utah Storage Center unit is one of the most secure, cleanest ways to protect your belongings. Compared to garages, basements, or attics, our units offer:
- Security: Gated access, cameras, and on-site managers.
- Cleanliness: Regularly maintained units to prevent pests and damage.
- Affordability: Local pricing without the constant rent hikes you see from national chains.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what you can—and can’t—store makes the process simple, safe, and stress-free. From seasonal gear and furniture to business inventory and vehicles, our units are the perfect solution for freeing up space while keeping your belongings protected.
For clear rules, helpful tips, and the right unit for your needs, trust Utah Storage Center. Use our Storage Unit Size Guide to get started or contact us today to reserve your space with confidence.
Store Summer Gear the Smart Way
From watersports vehicles and small boats to camping equipment, summer gear isn’t built to withstand months of snow and ice. Placing these items in a storage unit keeps them protected until warmer days return.
- Wrap fabric and cushions with tarps or plastic covers to prevent mildew.
- Use sturdy bins for camping gear and label everything for easy spring access.
- Choose the right unit size for your gear using our Storage Unit Size Guide.
Protect High-Value or Sensitive Items
Some belongings, like artwork and musical instruments, are especially vulnerable in the cold. While we recommend keeping these at home in climate-controlled conditions, you can still safely store them with extra protection in one of our units:
- Artwork on canvas: Store off the ground, wrapped in breathable covers.
- Instruments: Wrap and cover carefully, and expect items like pianos to need tuning after storage.
When in doubt, ask our team for advice on the safest storage approach for your valuables.
Avoid Attracting Pests
Winter brings rodents and insects looking for shelter. That’s why one of the most important winter storage rules is simple: never store food. Even packaged goods can attract pests and put your belongings at risk. With our clean and well-maintained units, you can store confidently knowing your items are protected.
Vehicle & Car Storage
Utah winters are especially hard on vehicles. If you own a car, motorcycle, or recreational vehicle that usually sits outside, putting it in a storage unit will help extend its life:
- Drain the oil if storing for longer than a month.
- Disconnect the battery to prevent drainage.
- Cover the vehicle for added protection from dust and condensation.
Our larger units are perfect for keeping vehicles safe and ready to roll in the spring.
Why Choose a Storage Unit for Winter?
Storing items at home may seem convenient, but garages, basements, and sheds often expose belongings to cold, moisture, and pests. A secure, professional storage unit gives you:
- Controlled environment: Keeps your gear dry and safe.
- Extra space at home: Free up room in your garage or closets.
- Peace of mind: 24/7 security and clean units you can trust.
Final Thoughts
Don’t leave your belongings to battle Utah’s winter weather on their own! From summer gear to vehicles and valuables, Utah Storage Center provides the clean, secure storage space you need to protect what matters most. Use our Storage Unit Size Guide to find your perfect fit, or contact us today to reserve your winter storage unit.
