If you’re reading this blog post, we’re guessing it’s because you ran a Google search on things you can’t keep in self-storage Dubai. Well, that’s a great subject to search on the internet because just like most things in life, there are rules to them.

Self-storage units are a cheap, convenient way to free up your home or office space. However, while these great spaces can seem like a haven to safely store just about anything, there are certain items that you should never keep in them. 

Some of these prohibited items are pretty obvious, but there are also others that people don’t usually consider when using a self-storage unit.

So, what items shouldn’t you store in a self-storage unit?

Well, let’s find out!

Perishable Foods

When it comes to storing items in self-storage, perishable foods are a no-go.

These food items are magnets for attracting bugs and rodents that can quickly turn your self-storage space into a nightmare.

If food needs to be refrigerated, it’s perishable. So, meat, and dairy products like milk, shouldn’t be stored – not even for a short time.

Imagine leaving a cup of milk in a dark, closed-off space and checking it after a few days; it will probably attract pests and create foul odors. In turn, those unwelcome visitors will nest and cause all sorts of problems to any surrounding item. And if miraculously, no pest problem manifests, some mold and bacteria problems may arise.

Pets and Plants

A key note to remember when storing items in a self-storage unit is never to use them as a home for your pets or plants.

We’ve seen odd stories on how people took the idea of self-storage literally, turning their units into plant nurseries. We probably don’t need to tell you why storing plants in your self-storage unit is a big no-no, so don’t even think about it.  

Same goes for pets. Not only will they mess up your storage space, but their urine and droppings contain pathogens that can pose a health risk while causing significant damage to your belongings.

Hazardous materials

On the list of items that should never be stored in a self-storage unit, hazardous materials should be right at the top. These inherently dangerous items pose a risk hazard to any area they are kept in and should never be left unattended for long periods.

Examples include:

  • Fertilizers
  • Acids
  • Fireworks
  • Asbestos
  • Propane tanks
  • Gasoline
  • Radioactive materials


We can go on and on with this list, but here’s the short rule: If they can explode, catch fire or corrode, don’t keep them in self-storage.  Many moving and packing solutions companies won’t accept these hazardous materials either. So, if you’re relocating or going on a vacation, ensure you properly dispose of them before moving day.

Stolen items

If you have stolen items, you’re not going to have any luck storing them in a self-storage Dubai unit. Why? Because it’s illegal. So don’t even think about it!

Not only are self-storage Dubai units well-monitored, but they are also managed by attentive employees who are liable to contact the authorities when they suspect any suspicious activity.

If it turns out that you’ve kept stolen or illegal goods in your self-storage Dubai unit, then you will be charged with possession of the stolen property.

Scented or Wet Items

Wet or scented items aren’t things you usually find on a “what not to store in self-storage Dubai” list. But trust us when we tell you that you don’t want to make the mistake of keeping these items in your self-storage unit.

Scented items like soaps may seem harmless, but their smell attract bugs or rodents that can cause serious damage to your possessions. If you really must keep scented things, take the extra effort to keep them in airtight containers or, better still, leave them out of your self-storage unit.

What’s more, storing wet (even damp) items in self-storage is a big no-no. With moisture, mold and mildew will grow, causing severe damage to your valuable items. So, if you are moving on a rainy day, it’s worth ensuring that your items are dry before placing them into self-storage. Don’t just toss them in!

And There You Go!

Whether you’re moving, downsizing, or needing extra space for a decluttering project, knowing what you can and cannot store in a self-storage unit is essential. If you are unsure about what doesn’t belong in your self-storage unit, reach out to your storage units Dubai provider to learn more.

At XX, we provide clean, convenient self-storage spaces for people wanting cheap self-storage Dubai solutions. Every one of our self-storage units is fitted with cutting-edge security features to ensure the total safety of your valuable possessions. So come into our office or give our storage experts a call to learn more about our storage solutions in Dubai.