How to Prevent Rodents in Your Storage Unit

How to Prevent Rodents in Your Storage Unit

Storing your belongings should give you peace of mind — not worries about pests. One of the most common concerns people have when renting a storage unit is rodents. The good news? With proper preparation and smart storage habits, you can greatly reduce the risk.

Why Rodents Are Attracted to Storage Units

Rodents like mice and rats are usually searching for three things:

• Food

• Shelter

• Warmth

If a unit contains food, paper products, or clutter that creates hiding spots, it becomes more attractive to pests.

The responsibility for preventing rodents is shared — facilities work to maintain clean, secure properties, and tenants should store items properly.

What NOT to Store

The number one rule: never store food.

Even sealed food items can attract rodents. Avoid storing:

• Canned goods

• Pet food

• Bird seed

• Dry goods

• Anything scented or edible

Food residue left in boxes or containers can also draw pests.

Best Practices to Prevent Rodents

1. Use Plastic Bins Instead of Cardboard

Cardboard is easy for rodents to chew through. Sealed plastic containers provide much better protection.

2. Elevate Items Off the Floor

Using pallets or shelving improves airflow and reduces hiding spots.

3. Keep Your Unit Organized

Clutter creates nesting areas. A clean, organized unit is far less attractive to rodents.

4. Avoid Storing Fabric Unprotected

Clothing, mattresses, and upholstered furniture should be sealed in plastic covers.

5. Visit Your Unit Periodically

Checking your unit occasionally allows you to catch any issues early.

Extra Protection: Using Rodent Repellents

Even with great storage habits, adding a rodent repellent can give you an extra layer of protection—especially for long-term storage.

Here are a few popular options many storage customers use:

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