A self storage unit is especially useful if you will be going overseas, taking an extended vacation, or accepting a job that involves a lot of travelling. However, not everything can be safely dumped somewhere for long periods of time. Here are a few items that you should think twice about before placing in self storage.
1. Perishables: Food and drink is not the only thing with a short shelf-life. Neglected soap, makeup, hair products, moist wipes, medicine, batteries, aerosol sprays, fire extinguishers, and even paint can outlive its usefulness. Always check the expiration date or shelf life of an item before adding it to your self storage unit. Otherwise, you're just wasting money hoarding useless junk.
2. Accelerants: The last product just mentioned shouldn't be kept in self storage not just because of expiration but also because it is an inferno waiting to happen. Other household combustibles include acetone, ethyl and isopropyl alcohol, varnish, kerosene, cooking oil, paint thinner, glue, and turpentine. Look for fire hazard labels and possible flammable chemicals on suspect particulars. Keep in mind that flammable and inflammable mean the same thing.
3. Full tanks: Since you won't be using your machines anytime soon, empty any and all water, oil, and gas tanks. The first can invite waterborne organisms. The last two are highly explosive. Make sure that not a drop of water is left nor a whiff of oil or gas is retained.
4. Wet or moist materials: Not only are they breeding grounds for mosquitoes, they make your idyllic space even more conducive for hives and nests. Ants, termites, wasps, cockroaches, and other pests look for spots that have excellent food supplies, lack predators, and contain a water source. Dry out all your property before surrendering them to self storage. Applying coats of insecticide will also help deter these little bugs.
5. Food: If the point about perishables isn't enough, think about the vermin your edibles will attract. If your food has a long expiration date, make sure they are kept in containers that rats can't get to like thick glass jars or strong metal containers.
These guidelines will ensure that your stuff is safely kept inside your self storage unit. Stow the above items at your own risk. Just remember that the most important items not to leave inside your self storage are the items that are disallowed by your rental company. So be sure to read the fine print on your contract before packing them all in.
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