If you’re considering self-storage, one of the first questions you may ask is: what can you actually store in a storage unit?
The short answer is that most household items, furniture, personal belongings, business stock and seasonal items can be safely stored, provided they are packed correctly and are allowed by the storage facility.
If you are unsure what to store in a storage unit, this guide covers the most common household items, furniture, appliances, seasonal goods and personal belongings that can be safely kept in self storage.
If you are still deciding whether storage is right for you, read our guide to personal storage in Cape Town for a full overview of when to use storage, what you can store, how much space you need and how to choose the right facility.
Need storage space? View our personal storage units in Cape Town.
Common Items to Keep in Storage
Furniture
Furniture is one of the most common items you can keep in a storage unit. This can include beds, couches, dining tables, chairs, wardrobes, bookshelves, desks, cabinets and patio furniture.
Before storing furniture, make sure each item is clean, dry and properly covered. Larger furniture items can often be disassembled to save space and protect them from damage while in storage.
For more detailed advice, read our guide to furniture storage in Cape Town.
Boxes and Personal Belongings
Storage units are ideal for packed boxes containing clothes, books, documents, kitchenware, décor, toys, photographs and general household items.
Using strong boxes and clear labels will make it easier to find what you need later, especially if you are storing items for more than a few weeks.
The number of boxes and household items you need to store will affect the size of unit you choose. If you are unsure how much space you need, use our storage unit size guide before booking.
Appliances
Many people store appliances such as fridges, washing machines, tumble dryers, microwaves, TVs and other electronics.
Before placing appliances into storage, make sure they are clean, dry and properly protected. Fridges and washing machines should be drained and dried to prevent moisture and odours.
Sports and Hobby Equipment
Bulky sports and hobby items can take up a lot of space at home. Storage units are a practical option for bicycles, golf clubs, surfboards, gym equipment, camping gear, fishing equipment and outdoor gear.
This is especially useful if you only use these items seasonally or do not have enough space to keep them at home throughout the year.
For larger recreational equipment, Storage Spot also offers secure boat storage in Cape Town with indoor and covered outdoor options.
Seasonal Items
Seasonal items are perfect for storage because you do not need access to them every day. This can include holiday decorations, luggage, winter clothing, camping equipment and event supplies.
If you only need to store items for a short period, such as during a move, renovation or seasonal change, read our guide to short-term vs long-term storage to help choose the right option.
What You Cannot Store in a Storage Unit
For safety and legal reasons, there are certain items that should not be placed in a storage unit.
Most storage facilities do not allow:
- Perishable food
- Hazardous materials
- Flammable substances
- Illegal items
- Live animals
- Explosives
- Strong chemicals
- Wet or damp items
As a general rule, avoid storing anything that can leak, rot, attract pests, cause a fire risk or create a safety issue.
Using Storage When Moving House
Storage is especially useful when you are moving house and need a temporary place to keep furniture, boxes and household items.
This can help when there is a gap between moving out and moving in, when your new home is not ready yet, or when you want to move in stages instead of doing everything on one day.
For more moving-specific advice, read our guide to storage for moving house in Cape Town.
Using Storage During Renovations
A storage unit is also useful when renovating your home. Moving furniture, appliances and boxes out of the way can help protect them from dust, paint, building materials and accidental damage.
If you are renovating, read our guide to storage while renovating for tips on keeping your belongings safe during building work.
Make the Most of Your Storage Unit
To get the best use out of your storage unit, pack your items properly before moving them in.
Use strong boxes, label each box clearly and place heavier items at the bottom. Keep items you may need sooner near the front of the unit, and stack boxes carefully to make use of the available height.
It is also a good idea to wrap fragile items in bubble wrap and cover furniture to protect it from dust.
If you are storing a mix of furniture, boxes and appliances, planning your layout before moving items in will make it easier to access your belongings later.
Secure Storage in Cape Town
At Storage Spot, our storage units are designed to give you a safe and convenient place to store your belongings.
Our storage solutions are suitable for household items, furniture, business stock, vehicles, caravans, boats and student storage.
Need dedicated space for a vehicle? View our secure vehicle storage in Cape Town for short- or long-term storage.
Our facility offers:
- High-level security
- Flexible storage options
- A clean and safe environment
- Different unit sizes
- Helpful on-site support
- Packaging and moving supplies
If you are comparing storage options, our guide to personal storage in Cape Town explains how to choose the right storage solution for your needs.
Related Personal Storage Guides
- Guide to Personal Storage in Cape Town
- Furniture Storage in Cape Town
- How Much Storage Space Do I Need?
- Storage for Moving House in Cape Town
- Storage While Renovating
- Short-Term vs Long-Term Storage
Contact us today and secure your personal storage unit in Cape Town.
