What Can’t You Store? A Guide to Prohibited Storage Items

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.