One of the biggest challenges that faces self storage renters is how to keep their items safe from small insects and rodents. Storing items for a long period of time can automatically attract these tiny pests. Both your belongings and the rental of a self storage unit are investments that you will undoubtedly want to protect. Fortunately, it does not take a lot of effort to securely guard your self storage unit against these creatures. Here are some tips to keep small bugs and insects far always from the belongings that you intend to place in self storage:
Ensure all items are clean and dry before storing
The age-old adage states that, ‘prevention is better than cure’ and that rings true in this situation as well. If you can prevent these small critters from getting into your items to begin with, then you are already ahead of the game. In many cases, these small items are attracted to excess moisture. They tend to thrive in areas that are cold and damp. Since they are either looking for food or a place to nest, you can prevent them from making their home in your belongings by thoroughly cleaning all items before storing. It’s easy for food particles to fall into tiny spaces. This is especially a risk when storing things like furniture. If possible, get your items professionally cleaned before putting them into storage. Spending a little extra before storing your items will be worth it in the long run if it means keeping your things rodent free.
Inquire about pest control at the self storage facility
Your best efforts to protect your belongings while they are in storage will be futile if the self storage facility has an inherent pest problem. The self storage facility should have pest control protocols in space to protect unit owners. Read online reviews and carefully evaluate the self storage facility before committing to renting. If other customers have pest problems, then it is almost a guarantee that you will, too. Remember, pests don’t always mean only rodents and roaches. Bed bugs are also an unfortunate occurrence in some self storage facilities. Since they can easily be brought in by tenants, the self storage facility should be very diligent in its employing preventative methods.
According to Inside Self Storage, facility owners can perform the following preventive methods to ward off bugs and other undesirable creatures:
- “Perform regular inspections of storage areas, equipment, drop ceilings, office areas, windows and ventilation for signs of insect or rodent infestations.
- Encourage customers to use plastic/reusable boxes to limit the presence of cardboard and paper.
- Have an effective sanitation program in place.
- Ensure the facility has adequate waste-management systems inside and out. Improper garbage disposal and overflowing, dirty dumpsters are sure ways to attract and breed pests.
- Seal all pest-entry points around pipes, foundations, doors and other areas. Ensure there are no roof leaks.
- Install a gravel or rock perimeter to discourage vegetation growth that could invite and harbor pests, especially ants.
- Eliminate clutter in which pests can hide and nest, and clearly communicate with tenants about which types of items can and cannot be stored. Have a strict policy against storing food and perishable goods.
- Assess the type of outdoor lighting used. Consider using sodium vapor lights to discourage pests that are attracted to light.”
Insure items in storage
While ideally you would never want to have to file an insurance claim, it is better to be safe than sorry. Getting proper self storage insurance to cover your items in the event of a loss is a smart move. By buying insurance, you will ensure that even if the self storage facility’s pest prevention protocol falls short, there is an opportunity to recover any damaged items. Before committing to any insurance plan, read the fine print carefully to find out whether or not the policy will cover damage from pests. While insurance is wise to have overall, it is best to get a policy that addresses all your concerns from the beginning instead of trying to seek additional coverage at a later date.
Prepare both your containers and the storage unit
Just like your belongings, both the containers and self storage unit should be clean and dry. Choose airtight storage containers that will keep out moisture. Cardboard boxes are very popular due to their cost effectiveness. However, the material attracts pests like no other. If you will be storing items for a long period of time then make the extra investment and use plastic containers. These are much harder for rodents and bugs to penetrate and they will also make the entire
Even though self storage facilities tend to clean units between rentals, you should still do your due diligence. If you are particularly worried about creepy crawlers, then spray the unit prior to moving your items in. Check the unit closely for any cracks since these provide a direct entryway for those little creatures. If you are still not satisfied, remember that you can always ask to switch units if you are not comfortable.
Pay attention to what is being stored
It’s not always obvious what you should and should not store in a self storage unit. However, it should go without saying that perishable food items should never be placed in a self storage unit. It is fine to store canned items and other goods that are sealed airtight. However, just about anything else is inviting the presence of unwanted creatures. In addition to food, avoid storing old newspapers and any other items that often attract rodents. If storing old clothes or paper items put them in airtight containers. Insects and rodents often use those items for both food and to make their homes so try to keep it out of their reach.
There are many ways to prevent lasting damage from insects and rodents while renting a self storage facility. We offer many listings of clean and affordable self storage units that can safely and securely accommodate all your belongings.
