Reminder: Pest Prevention starts with you

Here are three things you can do to remediate pests when using self-storage. Of course, there are many choices for where to store your belongings, and we at Tellus Self Storage take pride in spreading awareness when it comes to the dos and don’ts of self-storage.

Here are the top three things that you should be mindful of when placing items in storage.

Do not use food boxes (boxes previously used to transport food items.) When gathering boxes for your items, be sure to ignore all food boxes. Banana boxes produce boxes, chip, or drink boxes are all no-nos. Why? Because while we might not smell any food residue on these boxes, pests like rats and mice can. Moisture from produce gets absorbed into the cardboard and becomes like a lighthouse for hungry critters. Avoid future headaches by simply steering clear of these storage containers.

Pick the correct type of storage for your belongings. Evaluate what types of items you will be storing and for how long. Our knowledgeable staff can help determine the correct type of storage for your needs. If it is in your home or air conditioning before you store, store in climate control. Items from your garage or shed outside are ideal for non-climate storage units.

Be mindful of what should not be stored. Scented candles or waxes, dried flowers or pasta, and food of any kind are three items that do not belong in storage. Smells from these items will attract pests looking for food. Additionally, you should try and store any bedding, fabrics, or clothes in plastic totes to help deter pests or insects from making nests in them. Of course, a week or two in a plastic bag might not hurt them. However, a more extended stay in plastic bag storage might also result in mold and mildew.

We encourage you to take the time to protect your items. After all, you are paying to have them stored. Please do everything you can to ensure that they retain their value.