What Can’t You Store? A Guide to Prohibited Storage Items
Jade Cutler • July 7, 2025
What Can’t You Store? A Guide to Prohibited Storage Items
When it comes to self-storage, it's easy to assume that if it fits in the unit, you can store it. But for safety, legality, and insurance reasons, there are certain items you cannot keep in your storage unit—no matter how clean, dry, or secure it may be.
At Greenbox Self Storage, we’re all about keeping your belongings safe—and that starts with protecting your storage environment. Whether you're decluttering your home, prepping for a move, or managing inventory for your business, it's essential to know what’s not allowed in your unit.
Let’s break down what can’t go in, why it matters, and how to make smart, safe storage decisions.
1. Flammable, Combustible, or Hazardous Materials
This includes:
- Gasoline, propane tanks, diesel, kerosene
- Fireworks, ammunition, or explosives
- Paint thinners, solvents, cleaning fluids, or acids
- Fertilizers, pesticides, or other toxic chemicals
Why it’s prohibited:
These materials pose a serious fire, explosion, or contamination risk. Even a small leak or spark can become a major safety hazard in a storage facility.
Pro tip: Drain fuel from lawnmowers, snowblowers, or other equipment before storing.
2. Perishable Food and Items That Attract Pests
You cannot store:
- Fresh or frozen food
- Open containers of dry goods
- Pet food or treats
Why it’s prohibited:
Food can spoil, rot, and attract insects or rodents—putting not only your items at risk but also your neighbors' units.
If you're storing kitchen items or dry pantry goods, make sure they’re sealed, unopened, and non-perishable.
3. Living Things (Yes, Really)
This includes:
- Plants (potted or otherwise)
- Animals (we wish this didn’t need saying, but here we are)
Why it’s prohibited:
Storage units aren’t ventilated or climate-controlled for living beings. Even short-term storage can become dangerous or fatal.
4. Stolen, Illegal, or Unauthorized Items
Do not store:
- Stolen goods
- Unregistered firearms
- Drugs or controlled substances
- Counterfeit merchandise
Why it’s prohibited:
Beyond obvious legal issues, storing illegal items puts you at risk of law enforcement action, eviction, and more. Storage facilities cooperate with authorities if criminal activity is suspected.
5. Uninsured or High-Risk Valuables
You can technically store valuables like:
- Jewelry
- Cash
- Collectibles
- Rare documents
But we don’t recommend it.
Why it’s discouraged:
These items are better suited for a safe deposit box
or home safe. Even with excellent facility security, certain high-value items may not be covered by insurance in the event of loss.
6. Anything That Requires a Power Source
Most units do not offer electricity or climate control for everyday use. That means:
- Fridges, freezers (plugged in)
- Space heaters
- Charging electronics or running equipment
Why it’s prohibited:
Running devices create fire risks and aren’t supported by the infrastructure of most self-storage units.
Always Check the Facility’s Rules
Storage rules may vary by facility, so when in doubt, ask! At Greenbox Self Storage, we provide each renter with a full list of prohibited items during the rental process. You can also view or Frequently Asked Questions
Page for more details.
Your safety, the security of your items, and the protection of the entire facility depend on following these guidelines.
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.
Not sure if something is allowed? Give your Greenbox Self Storage location a call, or stop by and chat with our onsite team. We’re happy to walk through the do’s and don’ts of smart self-storage.
Safe storage starts with smart choices.
When you store with Greenbox, you're not just renting space—you’re joining a secure, community-focused environment where your belongings are in good hands.
Discover 7 easy eco-friendly storage tips that help you reduce waste and stay green while using self storage. Learn how Greenbox Self Storage supports sustainable living.
The birds are chirping, the sun is (finally) sticking around longer, and that undeniable urge to clean everything is creeping in—yep, it’s spring cleaning season in Denver. But before you start pulling everything out of your closets, garage, or basement like a tornado on a mission, let’s talk strategy. Because let’s be honest: spring cleaning can go from “fresh start” to “full-blown meltdown” real fast. That’s where self-storage comes in. At Greenbox Self Storage, we believe spring cleaning doesn’t have to be chaotic. With a smart plan—and the right storage unit—you can tackle clutter with clarity, not overwhelm. Here’s how self-storage helps you spring clean like a pro and actually enjoy the process (well… almost). 1. Clear Space to Clean Space You can’t clean what you can’t see. Self-storage gives you the breathing room you need to work efficiently. Whether you're decluttering your garage, tackling the attic, or finally organizing your closets, having a temporary home for seasonal gear, bulky furniture, or boxes of "I’ll deal with it later" makes a huge difference. Pro Tip: Start by moving out the non-essentials—holiday décor, snow gear, patio furniture. Once it’s out of sight, you’ll be amazed how much easier it is to sort, clean, and organize. 2. Conquer One Zone at a Time Spring cleaning shouldn’t mean turning your whole house upside down in one weekend. With a storage unit, you can stage your projects one room (or one category) at a time. Store what you’re not ready to deal with, then bring items back when you’ve got the time and energy. This method reduces decision fatigue and keeps your home from becoming a war zone of half-finished projects. 3. Keep Sentimental Items Safe (and Out of the Way) Let’s face it: Not everything has a place in your daily space—but that doesn’t mean it’s not important. Heirlooms, childhood keepsakes, photo albums… these are the things that tend to get buried or boxed up in weird corners. A climate-controlled unit at Greenbox protects your cherished belongings while freeing up precious space in your home. It’s peace of mind without the guilt of “out of sight, out of mind.” 4. Rotate Seasonal Items with Ease Spring is the perfect time to rotate out winter gear and bring back warm-weather essentials. Instead of cramming everything into one overstuffed closet or garage shelf, store off-season items in a labeled, organized unit. Come fall, just switch it back. Easy, breezy, and way less frustrating than digging through tubs of snow boots when all you want is your sandals. 5. Declutter Without Saying Goodbye (Yet) Struggling to part with certain items? Self-storage can be a helpful middle ground. If you’re unsure about donating, selling, or tossing, store it for a couple of months. If you don’t miss it, it’s probably safe to let go. It’s like a trial separation—for your stuff. Why Greenbox Self Storage is Denver’s Spring Cleaning MVP We’re not just a place to stash your stuff. At Greenbox, we offer: Convenient Denver locations close to home and work Climate-controlled units perfect for everything from gear to grandma’s china Flexible month-to-month leases (because no one wants long-term commitments during spring cleaning) Advanced security so your belongings stay safe while you focus on cleaning up your space—and your sanity Ready to Spring Clean Like a Pro? Start your spring refresh the smart way—with a little help from Greenbox Self Storage. We’ll hold onto your stuff while you make room for a cleaner, calmer home. Because when your space is clear, your mind can be too. Reserve your unit online today or stop by one of our Denver locations to get started. Become a self storage Pro – check out our article “ Mastering The Art of Self Storage: Essential Tips for A Smooth Experience .” Want more Spring Cleaning Hacks? Check out THIS article for 40 creative spring cleaning tips to make our home shine.
Self-storage is an incredible solution for those times when life demands a little extra space. Whether you're downsizing, decluttering, or simply need a temporary home for your belongings, a storage unit can be a game-changer. To help you make the most of your storage experience, we've compiled a list of essential tips that will keep your belongings safe, organized, and accessible. 1. Choose the Right Unit Size The first step to a successful storage experience is selecting the right unit size. Make an inventory of the items you plan to store and consider how much space they will require. It’s better to choose a slightly larger unit than risk cramming everything into a space that's too small. At Greenbox Self Storage, our staff can help you determine the ideal size for your needs. Or, if you prefer, you can use our online Size Guide to help you determine the amount of storage space you need. 2. Pack Like a Pro Packing your items properly is key to maximizing space and protecting your belongings. Here are a few pro tips: Use sturdy, uniform boxes to make stacking easier and more stable. Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper. Avoid overfilling boxes; it’s better to have several manageable boxes than one heavy, awkward one. Use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing or bedding to save space. 3. Label Everything A well-organized storage unit starts with clear labeling. Use bold markers to label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to (e.g., "Kitchen – Plates and Glassware"). Consider creating a simple map of where items are located in the unit, so you can easily find what you need later. 4. Use the Space Strategically Think of your storage unit as a 3D puzzle. Start by placing heavier items or furniture at the bottom and toward the back. Stack lighter boxes on top. Create aisles or leave space between rows of boxes so you can move around easily. Keep frequently used items near the front for quick access. 5. Protect Your Belongings If you’re storing items like electronics, documents, or artwork, consider opting for a climate-controlled unit. These units help regulate temperature and humidity, preventing damage from extreme weather conditions. For additional protection, place items on pallets to avoid direct contact with the floor, and cover furniture with breathable fabric covers. 6. Plan for Seasonal Storage Storing seasonal items like holiday decorations, summer gear, or winter clothing? Pack these in clear plastic bins for easy identification. Keep seasonal items grouped together so you can rotate them in and out of your home without a hassle. 7. Leverage Greenbox Self Storage's Features At Greenbox Self Storage, we understand the importance of security, convenience, and flexibility. Our facilities are designed with advanced security systems, easy access hours, and a range of unit sizes to accommodate all your storage needs. Plus, our eco-friendly approach ensures you’re storing with sustainability in mind. Ready to Simplify Your Space? By following these tips, you’ll ensure your self-storage experience is stress-free and efficient. Whether you’re storing for a month or a year, Greenbox Self Storage is here to provide a secure, clean, and convenient solution for your belongings. Visit us today to find the perfect unit for your needs!
