As a trusted provider of secure and accessible self-storage solutions, we're committed to helping our tenants make the most of their units while ensuring safety, compliance, and peace of mind. Whether you're decluttering your home, storing seasonal items, or managing business inventory, understanding what can't go into your storage unit is just as important as knowing what can. At Freedom Storage, we prioritize the well-being of our community and facilities, which is why we have clear guidelines on prohibited items. Plus, since all our units are non-climate-controlled, it's crucial to consider how environmental factors like temperature fluctuations and humidity could affect your belongings.In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the items you should never store in a Freedom Storage unit. We'll explain the reasons behind these restrictions, share practical tips for tenants, and offer alternatives to help you store responsibly. By keeping these in mind, you'll avoid potential hazards, legal issues, and damage to your items or the facility. Let's get started!Why Storage Restrictions Matter at Freedom StorageBefore we list out the no-go items, it's worth understanding the "why" behind our policies. Freedom Storage units are designed for safe, dry storage of everyday household and business goods. However, certain items pose risks such as fire, explosion, contamination, or pest infestation. Others could violate local, state, or federal laws. Without climate-controlled options, our units are exposed to natural temperature changes—think hot summers and chilly winters—which can warp, crack, or degrade sensitive materials over time.Ignoring these rules could lead to unit evacuation, fines, or even contract termination. More importantly, it ensures everyone's safety, including our staff and fellow tenants. At Freedom Storage, we conduct regular inspections and require all tenants to sign agreements outlining these prohibitions. If you're ever unsure about an item, our friendly on-site managers are always available to clarify—just swing by or give us a call!1. Hazardous Materials: Keeping Everyone SafeOne of the biggest categories of prohibited items at Freedom Storage is anything classified as hazardous. These materials can ignite, explode, or release harmful substances, turning a simple storage unit into a potential danger zone.Flammable or Combustible Substances: This includes gasoline, propane tanks, oil, paint thinners, and solvents. Even empty fuel cans can retain fumes that might spark a fire. Why the ban? In a non-climate-controlled environment like ours, heat buildup during summer months could exacerbate risks, leading to spontaneous combustion or leaks.Explosives and Ammunition: Fireworks, gunpowder, or any type of ammo are strictly off-limits. These items are unstable and could cause catastrophic damage if mishandled or exposed to temperature extremes.Chemicals and Toxic Substances: Pesticides, fertilizers, asbestos, household cleaners, and acids fall here. They can corrode containers, release fumes, or contaminate neighboring units. At Freedom Storage, we emphasize eco-friendly practices, so avoiding these helps maintain a clean facility.Tip for Tenants: If you have hazardous waste, contact your local recycling center or hazardous materials disposal service. For paints and chemicals, many communities offer free drop-off events. Remember, storing these in a Freedom Storage unit isn't just against our rules—it's often illegal and could void your insurance.2. Perishables: Avoiding Spoilage and PestsFood and other perishable items might seem harmless, but they can quickly become a nightmare in storage. Without refrigeration or climate control, these items spoil, attract rodents, insects, or wildlife, and create unpleasant odors that spread throughout the facility.Food Items: This covers everything from canned goods and pet food to fresh produce and leftovers. Even sealed items can leak or expire, drawing pests like ants, mice, or cockroaches.Organic Materials: Plants, seeds, or soil are no-gos. They can harbor mold, fungi, or bugs, and in our non-climate-controlled units, humidity swings could accelerate decay.Why it matters at Freedom Storage: We've seen how one forgotten box of snacks can lead to a full-blown infestation, requiring professional pest control and disrupting multiple tenants. Our facilities are kept clean, but prevention is key to maintaining that standard.Tenant Advice: Donate non-perishables to food banks before storing. For plants, consider a greenhouse or friend's care. If you're storing kitchen appliances, ensure they're thoroughly cleaned and dry to avoid any residual food particles.3. Living Things: No Room for the LivingIt might sound obvious, but you'd be surprised how often this comes up. Freedom Storage units are not suitable for anything alive—period.People or Animals: Units aren't habitable; they're for inanimate storage only. No overnight stays, pet kenneling, or using them as a makeshift office or living space.Plants and Live Specimens: As mentioned, live plants are prohibited due to pest and decay risks. This extends to aquariums with fish or any biological samples.The reasoning: Beyond ethical concerns, living things require ventilation, light, and stable temperatures that our non-climate-controlled units simply don't provide. Attempting this could result in harm to the living entity and violations of animal welfare laws.What to Do Instead: Board pets with professionals, use community gardens for plants, or find temporary housing solutions elsewhere. Freedom Storage is all about secure item storage, not life support!4. Illegal or Stolen Items: Staying on the Right Side of the LawFreedom Storage takes compliance seriously, and we cooperate fully with authorities. Storing anything illegal could lead to severe consequences for you and us.Contraband and Drugs: Illegal substances, paraphernalia, or stolen goods are absolutely forbidden. This includes prescription meds not in your name.Weapons (Beyond Legal Limits): While some facilities allow licensed firearms, at Freedom Storage, we prohibit all weapons to minimize risks, especially in shared spaces.Forged or Counterfeit Items: Fake documents, currency, or goods violate intellectual property laws.Key Insight: Our security features, like 24/7 surveillance and gated access, are there to protect your legitimate belongings. Don't jeopardize that by storing questionable items. If discovered, we report to law enforcement as required.Pro Tip: If you're unsure about an item's legality, consult a lawyer or local authorities before bringing it to Freedom Storage.5. Valuable or Irreplaceable Items: Proceed with CautionWhile not always strictly prohibited, we strongly advise against storing high-value or sentimental items in our non-climate-controlled units.Jewelry, Cash, and Heirlooms: These are better in a bank safe deposit box. Theft is rare at Freedom Storage thanks to our robust security, but why risk it?Important Documents: Birth certificates, passports, or family photos can degrade from humidity or heat without climate control.Electronics and Antiques: Sensitive to temperature changes, these could malfunction or warp. For instance, wooden antiques might crack in dry winters.Why Highlight This? At Freedom Storage, we offer insurance options, but they're no substitute for proper protection. Tenants often overlook how seasonal weather affects non-climate-controlled storage—extreme heat can melt electronics, while cold snaps can brittle plastics.Alternatives: Use home safes, professional vaults, or digital backups for documents. For valuables, consider specialized storage services designed for them.6. Wet, Unclean, or Odorous Items: Preventing Damage and MessFinally, anything that's wet, dirty, or smelly can cause widespread issues in a storage unit.Damp Items: Wet clothes, appliances, or furniture promote mold and mildew, especially in humid conditions without climate control.Unclean Goods: Dirty tools or equipment can transfer grime, attracting pests or damaging other items.Strong-Smelling Substances: Perfumes, oils, or anything with a potent odor can permeate the unit and affect neighbors.Tenant Reminder: Always clean and dry items thoroughly before storing. Use moisture absorbers like silica packets in your Freedom Storage unit to combat natural humidity.Wrapping It Up: Store Smart with Freedom StorageKnowing what you can't store is empowering—it helps you plan better and avoid costly mistakes. At Freedom Storage, our goal is to provide reliable, affordable units that meet your needs without the frills like climate control, keeping costs down for everyday tenants. By following these guidelines, you're not just complying with rules; you're contributing to a safer, cleaner community.Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes and based on Freedom Storage's standard policies. Always review your rental agreement for the most up-to-date details.Freedom Storage is here to assist with sizing recommendations, packing tips, and more. Thanks for reading, and happy storing!If you're ready to rent a unit or have questions about our policies:📍 Visit us at 218 or 232 Barre Paxton Rd, Rutland, MA 01543📞 Call us now at 508-960-7227Or reserve your unit online - https://www.storewithfreedom.comFreedom Storage of Rutland – your go-to choice for local, seasonal, and secure self-storage in Rutland, Massachusetts.
