How to Keep Rodents and Pests Out of Your Storage Unit
Knowing how to keep rodents and pests out of your storage unit is vital in maintaining the quality of your belongings. Many people don’t realize that the way things are packed into a storage unit can attract unwanted visitors. There are a few simple methods you can utilize to prevent infestations like keeping food out of your unit, storing items properly and making sure you choose the right facility. Follow along for an in-depth look at these preventative methods.
DO NOT STORE FOOD INSIDE YOUR UNIT. Although it may seem obvious, this is one of the most common reasons people find unwelcome creatures in their unit. Not only is storing food a bad idea, it is expressly prohibited in the terms of most leases. Before moving in, make sure the previous tenants did not leave behind any crumbs or residual food, and sweep the entire surface area of your unit. Once you have moved in, make sure to clean and get rid of all crumbs and food scraps that may be hiding beneath cushions, inside pots and pans, etc.
Pack items in well-sealed storage containers like plastic totes. It is imperative to keep critters away from belongings that are easily damaged like clothing, linens and precious fabrics. The best containers to protect these items from unwanted pests are well-sealed plastic totes. If you have a limited number of totes for storage, the next best thing would be a new cardboard box. Newer boxes are much stronger and leave little room for bugs to crawl through gaps. If you need new boxes on a budget, try checking Craigslist, as people are usually giving away new boxes in bulk.
Cover furniture and mattresses. Dealing with bed bugs is a nightmare. An easy way you can avoid these bugs getting into your mattress is by protecting it with a plastic cover. To add another level of comfort, be sure to buy a cover that is designed specifically to keep unwanted bugs out. Beyond mattresses, bugs and rodents are attracted to any furniture that is upholstered, so be sure to cover any kind of fabrics. Plastic can be used to cover most things, but we recommend using more breathable materials for upholstered chairs and couches.
Visit your unit every few weeks. Don't leave your unit unattended for months at a time. The easiest way to deal with an infestation of pests or rodents is by catching it early on. Visiting your unit every other month or so should ensure you catch an infestation before much damage is done. At each visit, make sure to inspect your unit for droppings, holes in furniture, or any signs of bugs. If you do notice these things, contact the management team promptly to ensure that the problem is dealt with as soon as possible.
Opt for a self-storage facility that offers pest control. In most cases, pests cannot be avoided if your self-storage facility is not properly taken care of by management. In general, you should try to avoid doors with visible gaps or seals that have been damaged or severely degraded. Other signs of a well-kept facility include decent landscaping, all surface areas free of trash, and doors/access areas that are taken care of.
By following the steps listed above, it is very unlikely that you will ever have a problem with rodents and pests in your unit. Here at SpareBox Storage, our property managers spray and place traps to mitigate pest issues. Check out a self-storage location near you and rest assured knowing your stuff will be looked after.