Not in My Storage Unit: Bugs and Pests Be Gone

A little work can go a long way towards protecting your items while they are in storage. Anything worth paying to store is worth protecting while it is stored. For the safety of your items, those in neighboring units and in consideration of the storage facility owner, it pays to pay attention to pest control. After carefully reviewing American Van Lines testimonials in which our customers were alert when it came to pest control, here are a few tips to keep the bugs, mice and other vermin out of your precious storage unit.


Controlling the Rascals

1. Stay Clean – Before you move any furniture, appliances or other items into the storage unit, clean them and vacuum thoroughly. Get all of the crumbs, debris and stains off sofas and chairs including down in the cracks and crevices. Don't leave any leftovers from last week's dinner for the critters to come feast on.
2. Mothballs – Mothballs work well in boxes. However, they can cause stains in clothes, so be careful. Putting some in the unit, where they won't stain the contents, is a good idea. Cedar scented blocks and sachets can be made or purchased to be tucked into boxes of clothing or household goods like towels, blankets and sheets.
3. Pest Baits – Do not be afraid to use contained insecticides. Roach and ant baits can be an inexpensive thing to put in the corners as you don't know what others have stored in their storage sheds. You can use mouse traps with peanut butter as well.
4. Natural Deterrents – Catnip is said to repel ants, lavender repels moths, sage repels slugs and mint can be effective against many kinds of pests. Mint and tansy are said to repel mice, although tansy can cause allergic reactions in some people.
5. Can It – Stick to canned goods and securely sealed jars that are packed to prevent breakage if you absolutely must store food. Food is highly discouraged because it attracts all types of pests.
6. Climate – Avoid storing candles in warm climates and those with liquid-like snow globes in cold ones. Some units are not protected from heat and freezing, which can result in the items becoming damaged, in addition to anything stored underneath it. This in turn can attract pests due to the oils or dampness. If you must store items like this, go for a climate-controlled unit.