If you’re renting a storage unit, you probably have valuable belongings. And if you’ve ever dealt with rodents or bugs in a home before, you know those little critters can wreak havoc on your treasured items. That’s why keeping them out of your storage unit is essential. The following tips can help deter the critters:
Don’t store food.
If you want to avoid attracting mice and bugs, don’t leave or store food in your storage unit.
This rule goes beyond what you’re storing in your unit—it also applies to anything that smells like food in any way: coffee grounds or filters, lunch meat packages, etc.
If you must store food in your storage unit, be sure it is stored in airtight containers or zip lock bags so mice don’t get into it and contaminate everything else inside the unit.
Keep items raised a couple of inches off the floor.
Mice and rats like to nest in the dark, hidden places. To keep them out of your storage unit, raise the items you are storing off the ground a couple of inches, challenging mice to get to your belongings. It will also make mice more visible, so you can easily spot them before they become a problem.
Protect mattresses and upholstered furniture.
Mattress covers keep out dust mites and other small critters that can trigger allergies. If there is furniture in your storage unit—such as an armchair or sofa—cover them with plastic sheeting or tarps so that pests cannot burrow into them.
You can also place heavy-duty plastic sheets over framed pictures or paintings; these won’t protect from moisture but keep off dust and insects.
Store belongings in plastic totes with airtight lids.
The best way to keep pests out of your valuables is by packing them in well-sealed containers. Plastic containers or totes are best, especially for linens, fabrics, and clothing.
You can also consider purchasing new cardboard boxes for storage as an alternative to plastic containers. New, unused boxes will be more robust and are less likely to have gaps or holes that pests could enter. Storage boxes are manufactured with added strength to withstand stacking for long periods.
Visit your storage unit regularly.
Pest and rodent infestations are easiest to remedy when they are caught and addressed promptly.
A good rule of thumb is to visit your storage unit every other month and inspect for any signs of rodent or pest damage. Look for new holes, rodent droppings, or the presence of bugs.
Make sure your insurance policy covers rodent or pest damage.
If you’re storing your belongings in a climate-controlled storage unit, make sure your insurance policy covers damage from rodents or pests.
If your policy doesn’t cover rodent damage and mice get into your storage unit, you’ll have to pay for the repairs yourself. If an infestation occurs, your most crucial defense has comprehensive insurance coverage.
Storage Authority hopes you’ll be able to keep your storage unit free of mice and pests. We go a long way in providing peace of mind to customers, so if you have a question about an existing unit or are looking to rent a future unit, call us at 262-676-8464. You can also visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our affordable rates!