When considering the myriad of items you can store in a self-storage unit, it’s essential to understand both the possibilities and the limitations. At Bedford Storage, located in the heart of Bedford, we offer secure and flexible storage solutions tailored to meet diverse needs. Whether you’re decluttering your home, transitioning between places, or safeguarding business assets, our units provide the perfect space.
Household Items
Many individuals turn to self-storage during home renovations, relocations, or simply to free up space. Common household items suitable for storage include:
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Furniture: Sofas, beds, tables, chairs, and wardrobes.
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Appliances: Refrigerators, washing machines, microwaves, and ovens.
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Electronics: Televisions, computers, audio equipment, and gaming consoles.
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Decor: Artwork, mirrors, seasonal decorations, and antiques.
Before storing, ensure all items are clean and dry to prevent mould and mildew. Disassembling larger furniture can also optimise space and protect components.
Business And Office Equipment
Businesses, both large and small, can benefit from self-storage units to manage inventory, documents, or equipment. Suitable items include:
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Office Furniture: Desks, chairs, filing cabinets, and shelving units.
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Documents and Archives: Important records, files, and archives.
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Stock and Inventory: Excess products, promotional materials, and seasonal stock.
It’s advisable to organise and label business items systematically. While our storage rooms are ideal for storing and sorting stock, they cannot be used to operate machinery or power tools.
Vehicles And Recreational Equipment
For those with limited garage space, self-storage offers a solution for:
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Bicycles and Motorcycles: Especially during off-season periods.
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Boats and Jet Skis: Smaller watercraft can be accommodated in larger units.
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Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping bags, and other equipment.
Ensure all fuel is drained from vehicles and equipment to mitigate fire risks.
Items Not Suitable For Storage
While self-storage units are versatile, certain items are prohibited due to safety, legal, or ethical reasons:
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Perishable Goods: Food items can attract pests and lead to spoilage. Even well-packed food can degrade, causing mould and odours.
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Living Creatures: Animals, plants, or any living organisms are strictly forbidden. Storage units lack the necessary conditions to sustain life.
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Hazardous Materials: This includes flammable liquids (petrol, paint, cleaning solvents), compressed gases, and toxic chemicals. Such items pose significant risks to the facility and other stored goods.
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Weapons and Ammunition: Firearms, explosives, and related items are prohibited. According to the Firearms Rules 1998, these must be stored securely where unauthorised individuals cannot access them.
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Illegal or Stolen Goods: Any items that are illegal to possess are also illegal to store. This includes counterfeit goods, illicit drugs, and stolen property.
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Valuables and Important Documents: While our units are secure, items like cash, jewellery, and irreplaceable documents are best stored in specialised facilities or safe deposit boxes.
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Perishable & Organic Materials: Items like food, plants, and animal remains are not suitable for storage due to spoilage and health risks.
Tips For Optimal Storage
To make the most of your storage experience:
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Inventory Your Items: Maintain a detailed list of stored items for easy reference.
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Use Quality Packing Materials: Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and furniture covers to protect your belongings.
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Label Everything: Clearly label boxes on multiple sides to identify contents without opening them.
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Plan Your Layout: Place frequently accessed items near the front and create aisles for easy navigation.
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Climate Considerations: If storing sensitive items, inquire about climate-controlled units to prevent damage from temperature fluctuations.
At Bedford Storage, we prioritise the safety and satisfaction of our clients. By adhering to these guidelines and understanding what can and cannot be stored, you ensure a seamless and secure storage experience. If ever in doubt about a specific item, our team is always on hand to provide guidance and clarity.
