Searching storage units near me is great, but they're not always suitable for every item and while some might assume they can store almost anything, there are many things that could potentially damage other items, pose a safety hazard, or simply go against what is allowed by storage companies.Lockaway Storage serves our customers across the cities of San Antonio, Texarkana, Converse, Texas and Colorado, providing information on how to choose a smarter storage option when looking for 'storage units near me'. Here's what to look out for when renting a storage unit near by, the below are the items you cannot store in self storage facilities and our expert suggestions.1. Perishable food itemsPerishable food products will attract pests, increase mold development, and lead to unpleasant odors. Sealed packages can also become problematic after extended periods due to moisture accumulation inside the package.InsteadStore non-perishable food products safely at homeConsider purchasing climate controlled storage options for pantries2. Hazardous materialsExamples of hazardous materials include gasolines, propane tanks, paints, solvents, and other harmful chemicals. The potential risks associated with storing such hazardous materials in an enclosed area include fires and toxic exposures from leaks.Why it matters?The primary reason for not storing hazardous materials is because they present an inherent risk of causing a fire and or poisoning people who are around the materials. A closed storage unit presents a high risk environment for both hazards.3. Living thingsNever place pets or plants into a storage unit, this is considered improper storage.AlternativeIf you have pets that require constant attention or plants that need regular watering, research pet sitting or plant sitting services as opposed to utilizing your storage unit as a pet or plant facility.4. Important documentsYou would want to safeguard valuable documents such as birth certificates, passports, etc. from potential harm. These types of documentation should never be placed within storage units.InsteadUse a safe with a fire rating to protect your important documentsDigitize copies of your important documents and save digital files onlineWhen you are looking for storage units near me for document purposes, ensure that you are only considering non document related storage options.5. Wet or Damp itemsWet or damp items have the potential to develop mold or mildew and ultimately result in long term damage to your possessions. It is a particular concern in areas like Colorado that experience extreme temperature swings throughout the year.TipsAlways thoroughly dry wet items prior to placing them into storage units.6. Unregistered or Unused vehiclesSome storage companies will not permit unregistered vehicles to be stored in their facilities. Not all storage facilities allow the storage of vehicles that are not registered.AlternativesIf you are seeking to store a vehicle, you will need to search for RV storage near me or car storage near me. Some of these units are designed specifically for vehicle storage. Our San Antonio and Texarkana locations specialize in vehicle storage. Ensure to store registered vehicles only or check with the facility about their rules on vehicle storage.7. Valuables without protectionYou should not store valuables without first taking the necessary precautions and investing in the appropriate protection. This includes jewelry, cash, and collectible items.Why?No matter how inexpensive the storage units near me may appear, securing your irreplaceable items requires more than just security measures alone8. Illegal or stolen goodsAs a general rule, no reputable storage company permits illegal goods to be stored in their facilities. Storing stolen property in a storage facility is also prohibited by lawSo, What works well in storage units near me?Now that you have been informed of what not to store in your storage units near me, here is what can successfully be storedHousehold furnitureSeasonal decorative itemsCommercial merchandiseBoxes for movingEquipment and toolsWe have seen multiple customers utilize storage units near me for the above uses when researching storage units near meLockaway Storage solutions across our locationsRegardless of whether you are searching for storage units in San Antonio or anywhere else across our locations including San Antonio, Converse, Texarkana, and Colorado, Lockaway Storage has the flexibility to meet your needsTexas locationsTexas based residents and businesses frequently search forStorage units San AntonioStorage units New BraunfelsStorage units Conroe TXEach location provides easy accessibility and drive-up units along with secure storage optionsColorado locationsAdditionally, Colorado residents located in cities such as Loveland, Aurora, and Johnstown continue to seek climate controlled storage near me as a result of seasonal weather changes affecting the longevity of their stored itemsLockaway Storage always have some kind of promo or offers for their customers; so please ensure to contact your nearest facility or check the website for updated information.