Sofas, cabinets, tables, beds, lamps and boxes of household goods: all welcome. Disassemble large furniture as far as possible and protect it with blankets and wrap, so it doesn't get scratched and takes up less space. Anything clean and dry can go safely into storage.

Winter coats, bedding, garden furniture, Christmas decorations, skis or a patio set — ideal to store temporarily when you're short on space. Make sure textiles and garden furniture are clean and completely dry before they go into a box or cover, otherwise musty smells or mould can develop.

Businesses are welcome too: archive boxes, documents, stock, seasonal or event materials. As long as it isn't perishable or hazardous, you keep it dry and secured without cluttering your office or warehouse.

The condition your items go into storage in determines whether they're covered. Clean, dry, well-packed and disassembled: only then are they covered by the basic insurance. Poorly packed or not-disconnected items can be refused at pickup — so pack fragile things well and disconnect appliances.

Paint, petrol and other fuels, gas bottles, fireworks, chemicals, asbestos and loose batteries: all prohibited due to fire and environmental risk. Got an e-bike or battery tools? Remove the battery and keep it at home.

Food and perishables attract pests and cause mould and odours. Waste and live animals or plants don't belong in a storage space either. So empty your fridge and freezer and throw away food scraps before appliances go into storage.

Cash, securities, precious metals, jewellery, art and collectibles — and items of great sentimental value — don't belong in storage. They're hard or impossible to insure and irreplaceable if lost. Keep these somewhere safe yourself.

Items that aren't safely packed, disassembled or disconnected can be refused at pickup — they can't be transported safely and fall outside the insurance. Disconnect appliances, take apart large furniture and pack fragile things firmly, and pickup goes smoothly with everything covered.