What Not to Store in a Storage Unit:
The Official No List
Most of what you own can go in a storage unit, but a handful of items are off-limits for safety, legal, or just plain common-sense reasons. Hazardous materials, perishable food, living things, and anything illegal are the big four. Storing them can damage your belongings, your neighbors' belongings, and your rental agreement all at once.
Here at Storage in Lubbock, we want your stuff to come out looking exactly like it went in. This guide covers what's not allowed, what's allowed but better kept at home, and how to pack everything else so your cheap storage stays trouble-free.
The Quick No List
If you only read one section, make it this one.
Storage in Lubbock
The Official No List
Gasoline, propane & other fuels
Fire and explosion risk
Paint thinner, solvents & harsh chemicals
Toxic fumes, leaks, and fire risk
Fireworks & explosives
Extremely dangerous in an enclosed space
Food, pet food & perishables
Attracts rodents and insects, and it rots
Plants
They die without light and water, and bring in bugs and mold
People & pets
Unsafe, and not allowed under any circumstances
Stolen goods or illegal items
Against the law and your rental agreement
Wet or damp items
Mold and mildew spread to everything nearby
Hazardous and Flammable Materials
This is the most important category on the list. A storage unit is an enclosed metal box, and anything that can catch fire, leak, or give off fumes puts every unit around yours at risk.
Leave these at home or dispose of them properly:
- Gasoline, kerosene, diesel, and lighter fluid
- Propane tanks, even ones you think are empty
- Paint thinner, turpentine, and solvents
- Pool chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides
- Fireworks
- Oily rags and anything soaked in chemicals
Storing a mower, generator, or pressure washer? Run it dry or drain the fuel tank first. Small engines are fine to store once the gas is out.
Not sure about something specific, like paint, ammunition, or car batteries? Rules vary, so check your rental agreement or give our manager a call before you bring it in.
Food and Perishables
Even sealed food is a bad idea. Rodents and bugs can smell it through packaging, and once they find it, they'll chew through boxes, furniture, and anything else in the way. That turns one bag of dog food into a problem for your whole unit.
Skip these:
- Canned goods and pantry items
- Pet food, birdseed, and livestock feed
- Anything from the fridge or freezer
- Scented candles and soaps (they can draw pests too)
Anything Alive
This one sounds obvious, but it's worth saying clearly. No people, no pets, and no plants.
Storage units have no ventilation, heat, or light, and living in a unit isn't allowed for anyone's safety. Pets can't be kept in a unit even for a short time. Plants won't survive, and the soil can carry mold and insects that spread to your other belongings.
Illegal and Stolen Items
Storage units can't be used to hold anything illegal, stolen, or connected to a crime. That includes illegal drugs, unregistered firearms, and stolen property. Storing them puts your rental at risk and can bring law enforcement into the picture.
Vehicles Without Paperwork
A 10x20 drive-up unit can be a great spot for a car, small truck, or motorcycle. Most facilities, ours included, ask that stored vehicles be in working order, registered, and insured. Check with our manager before moving a vehicle in so you know exactly what we need.
Allowed, But Better Kept at Home
These items aren't banned, but they don't love life in a drive-up unit. Our units aren't climate-controlled, and West Texas swings from triple digits in July to a hard freeze in January. Keep these closer to home if you can.
How to Pack Everything Else the Right Way
Once the no list is handled, a few smart habits keep the rest of your stuff in great shape.
Make sure everything is clean and dry. Wipe down appliances, air out coolers, and let anything damp dry completely before it goes in.
Use plastic bins for the important stuff. They keep out dust, moisture, and pests better than cardboard.
Get items off the floor. Pallets or plastic shelving add a layer of protection.
Cover furniture with breathable fabric. Old sheets or moving blankets keep dust off without trapping moisture.
Use a quality lock. A disc lock is harder to cut and holds up better in West Texas weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I store a car in a storage unit?
Yes, as long as it fits and is in working order, registered, and insured. Our 10x20 units are the right size for most cars and small trucks.
Can I store a lawn mower or generator?
Yes. Just drain the fuel or run the engine dry first, since gasoline isn't allowed.
Can I store tires?
Some facilities limit tires or charge a disposal fee. Give our manager a call before you bring them in.
Can I work out of my storage unit?
You can store business inventory and equipment, but units can't be used as a workspace, office, or living space.
What happens if I store something on the no list?
It can damage your belongings and your neighbors', and it may violate your rental agreement. When in doubt, ask before you load it.
Store Smart at Storage in Lubbock
Now that you know what stays out, let's talk about what goes in. Storage in Lubbock offers discounted drive-up units with gated access, steel roll-up doors, and month-to-month rentals, so you get the best price in Lubbock without a long-term contract. Our gate is open 6:00am to 12:00am daily, and we're locally owned right here in West Texas.
Have a question about something on your list? Call us at (806) 866-4540 or stop by 7314 82nd St, Lubbock, TX 79424. A real neighbor will give you a straight answer.
Allowed, but…
Better Kept at Home
These aren't banned, they just don't love a West Texas drive-up unit.
Cash, jewelry & valuables
Hard to replace, and usually not covered fully
Birth certificates, passports & important papers
Moisture and heat can damage them, and you may need them fast
Family photos & keepsakes
Heat can warp prints and fade colors
Laptops, TVs & sensitive electronics
Temperature swings and condensation are tough on circuits
Musical instruments
Wood can crack and warp
Candles, crayons & anything waxy
Melts in summer heat
Liquids in winter
Can freeze, expand, and burst
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