A bug-free and mouse-free storage space can be considered one of the goals of storekeepers whether they realize it or not. Indeed, once the mice have nibbled at your books, you will realize the importance of a healthy storage space. However, it happens that without being careful, you place elements that could attract rodents and pests to your space. A piece of cake forgotten in your kitchen utensils and the drama quickly happens. It is important for you and your furniture to keep these pests away but also for nearby storage units.
Before buying a ton of traps and poison, try other methods to keep unwanted creatures out. In most cases, a little preparation will keep your items clean and safe.
Costockage gives you the best means to prevent rodents and other vermin from squatting in your warehouse.
PACK YOUR ITEMS IN PLASTIC CONTAINERS WITH AIRTIGHT LIDS.
The best way to prevent these parasites from accessing your clothes or other objects is to lock them in tightly closed plastic boxes. As it was said in the article “how to properly store your clothes”, it is better to place your fabrics in airtight plastic boxes and avoid cardboard at all costs.
If you still take cardboard, try to buy new boxes which will be more resistant than the old ones and will not have been punctured or torn during the move. The new boxes also have the advantage of being easier to stack than the old ones. Pay attention to where your boxes come from though. If you got them for free from shops and restaurants, there is a risk of remaining greasy stains or food that will attract rodents.
Which brings us to the second tip:
DO NOT STORE FOOD INSIDE A STORAGE UNIT.
Your food will eventually spoil or even mold and will attract pests such as mice or moths. You will also need to clean any items that have come into contact with food. Check all your utensils or kitchen cabinets. Keep in mind that the slightest crumb or smell can be fatal.
KEEP RAISED OBJECTS A FEW CENTIMETERS OFF THE GROUND.
You can do this using shelving or placing pallets on the floor. Not only will this help deter pests from taking up residence in your boxes, but it will also protect your belongings from moisture.
COVER MATTRESSES AND UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE.
Bed bugs love mattresses and mice do too. So, when you keep a mattress in a storage space, put it in a plastic mattress cover and check that it is completely covered.
If you place plastic sheeting over your items like sofas try to let your furniture breathe as plastic sheeting placed too tightly around a piece of furniture traps moisture and can therefore potentially damage your furniture.
USE NATURAL PEST DETERRENTS.
Avoid buying chemicals directly. A smell of moth repellent is not very pleasant for clothes. Start by cleaning up your storage space by sweeping it. Try removing odors with white vinegar and baking soda. Place cedar balls to keep moths away. Arrange cotton balls soaked in peppermint essential oils.
VISIT YOUR STORAGE SPACE REGULARLY
You’ll be more likely to remedy an infestation by being aware of it as soon as possible. Visit your storage every month. Check for signs of mites or rodents (e.g. nibbled objects). If you see any, contact your storage center or space owner.