How to Keep Bugs Out of Your Storage Unit

The heat brings longer days, BBQs, fun in the sun, and ... bugs. Lots of them. As the weather heats up, you might be worried about how to keep bugs out of a storage unit. If you live in a place where critters seem to get into everything, you might have to take a few extra steps to protect your belongings.

Here are nine simple things you can do this summer to keep bugs out of your storage unit.

Don't Store Any Food

This might seem like common sense, but it's worth repeating: no food in the storage unit. Food attracts bugs, and if you don't want to deal with an infestation or find your items covered in little critters, make sure that all food items are out of the storage unit.

Inspect Your Items Before Storing Them

If you're storing items that have been in the attic, basement, or garage, inspect them for bugs before putting them into your storage unit. This will help prevent any critters from hitching a ride and crawling around.

Use Airtight Containers

It's tempting to use cardboard boxes when packing your things away but these offer no protection from bugs. Instead, invest in pest-proof storage containers made of plastic. They'll last much longer and keep the bugs out.

Regularly Sweep and Maintain Your Unit

Sweep your storage unit regularly and make sure that everything is in its proper place. If you can keep the area free of debris, bugs won't have a place to hide. If you let cobwebs or clutter build up, you're giving bugs a warm welcome.

Check for Leaks and Cracks

Inspect your unit for any holes or cracks that could be entry points for pests. If you find any, let the facility know so they can seal them with caulk or foam insulation to keep the bugs out.

Take Special Care of Your Fabrics

Fabrics are particularly susceptible to bug infestations, so if you're storing anything made of cloth or fabric, make sure you've stored it properly. For example, cloth couches should be stored in plastic slipcovers to protect them from bugs.

Make sure all of your clothes, bedding, and linens are packed in plastic, pest-proof storage containers, like this option from Sterilite.

Keep Small Items Packed Away and Off the Floor

You know bugs love the nooks and crannies of small items and pieces of furniture. Utilize your wall space or invest in shelving units to keep your small items off the floor and out of reach of bugs.

Use Natural Pest Deterrents

You can also use natural pest deterrents like cedar chips, diatomaceous earth, and even mint or lavender oil to keep bugs out of your unit. These methods will help repel bugs and make them less likely to find their way into your storage space.

Choose a Clean, Reliable Storage Unit

Finally, when it comes to bugs in your storage unit, location is key. Choose a clean, reliable storage facility and make sure the building is well-maintained to reduce the chances of bugs getting into your stuff.

Talk to staff about past bug infestation problems and scour reviews to see if anyone has mentioned cleanliness level or problems with bugs.

Use these nine tips for how to keep bugs out of your storage unit and keep your belongings safe this summer.

A Bug-Free Summer With Midgard Self Storage

Well, we can't promise that your summer will be bug-free but we'll help keep your storage unit safe from creepy crawlers. Our staff knows how to keep bugs out of your storage unit, and we work hard to ensure your belongings are safe and secure.

Plus, with our wide selection of climate-controlled units, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your items aren't exposed to the elements or bugs. Reserve your unit today!