🚫 What Not to Store in Your Storage Unit – It’s Not Just Food!

Storing Type


Christine
June 28th, 2025


🚫 What Not to Store in Your Storage Unit – It’s Not Just Food!
At Storage Towne of America, we take great pride in providing a clean, pest-free, and secure environment for all our customers. One of the most common questions we get is: "Why can't I store food in my unit?" It might seem harmless—especially if it's sealed—but food and certain non-food items can quickly create problems for both your unit and your neighbors'. Here's why we have strict rules on what can and can’t be stored.

🍎 Why Food Is NOT Allowed

Even if it’s canned, bagged, or vacuum-sealed, food is never allowed in your unit. That includes:
  • Canned goods or non-perishables
  • Rice, beans, flour, sugar
  • Pet food
  • Snack packs or sealed drink bottles
  • Candy or gum
  • Baby formula or food pouches
Why?
  • Pest attraction: Even unopened items can be sniffed out by insects and rodents.
  • Odors: Food can create strong smells, especially in heat.
  • Contamination: A spill or spoilage can damage your belongings—and your neighbors’.
  • Policy violation: Our lease clearly states food storage is prohibited. Violations can result in immediate termination.
💡 Recent example: We recently found food (both open and sealed) in a unit that caused a strong odor throughout the building. After inspection, the customer’s lease was immediately terminated for violating our policy.

⚠️ Non-Food Items You Shouldn’t Store

Some items might not be edible but still pose major risks to the facility. Here's what to avoid:

🔥 Flammable & Hazardous Items

  • Propane tanks, gas cans, or fuel
  • Fireworks or explosives
  • Paints, oils, and cleaning solvents
  • Any chemical that emits fumes

🧪 Smell-Producing or Hazardous Materials

  • Air fresheners or incense
  • Items with strong perfume or cologne
  • Mothballs or pest control bombs
  • Essential oils in glass bottles that could leak

đź’§ Mold & Moisture Risks

  • Coolers with leftover liquid
  • Mini-fridges or freezers that haven’t been fully dried and propped open
  • Wet clothes or towels
  • Plants or soil (yes, even in planters)

📦 Other Prohibited Items

  • Firearms or ammunition
  • Perishable goods or anything that can rot
  • Biohazards or medical waste
  • Anything illegal or stolen

🧽 Help Us Keep Your Facility Clean

We do routine walk-throughs, pest control, cleaning, and odor checks—but we also rely on you to help keep Storage Towne clean and safe. Before locking your unit:
  • ❌ Double-check for anything edible or scented
  • âś… Store only approved, dry, and safe items
  • đź“ž Not sure if something is allowed? Ask us!

đź“ť Final Reminder

Storing any of the above items is a violation of your lease agreement. That means:
  • Your account can be terminated without notice
  • Your unit may be subject to inspection and lockout
  • You may be charged for cleaning or pest control caused by prohibited items

We’re here to help and make your storage experience a great one—so let’s work together to keep your belongings (and your neighbors’) safe.

Check out our Storage Towne of America - Germantown Facebook page for more up-to-date information on storage tips.

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