Do Storage Units Have Bugs?

When you rent a storage unit, it is easy to assume your belongings are safe from pests. But could bugs and rodents still get in? While pests can occasionally sneak into some units, it is far from inevitable. With preparation, vigilance and smart packing, you can keep your unit pest free.

Most storage units do not have plumbing, food or damp corners, which are the things pests love. However, if you store soft items, dusty boxes or leave crumbs behind, even clean units can become attractive. This is how unwanted visitors such as mice, spiders or beetles might show up without being noticed.

Recognising the Signs Before Damage Appears

It is helpful to know what pest activity looks like before it causes damage. You might see small droppings near boxes, chew marks on cardboard or faint oily streaks on walls where rodents have brushed past. Insects may leave shed skins or egg cases behind. Sometimes you notice a musty smell, which can point to cockroaches. Some spiders also leave more webs than usual. These are all warning signs to check your unit carefully and act quickly rather than waiting for an infestation to develop.

What Attracts Pests in Storage

Pests like dark and undisturbed places. Cardboard boxes seem harmless but they are attractive to rodents and insects because they offer both shelter and food residue. Upholstered furniture and fabrics can become nesting grounds. Dampness adds to the risk, as mildew and moisture draw silverfish and other bugs. Scented items or stored food are another trigger, while dusty belongings provide hiding spots.

People who store motorcycles in their unit often find that keeping the bike clean, covered and raised on a mat also discourages pests from nesting around it.

Preventing Pest Issues Before Moving In

The best way to avoid pests starts before you even bring your things to the unit. Inspect the unit for cracks or gaps around the door frame and walls, as pests can squeeze through very small openings. Ask the facility about their pest control practices and how often they treat the area.

Clean every item you plan to store, removing dust, crumbs or residue that might attract insects or rodents. Wash fabrics like linens or curtains and make sure they are completely dry. Even a small food fragment can act as a beacon for pests.

Using airtight plastic containers is one of the most effective ways to keep items safe. These containers are chew proof and lack the crevices that bugs find attractive. Avoid cardboard where possible. If you need to use it, choose new boxes, seal them well and place them on pallets to keep them off the floor.

Natural Repellents That Actually Work

Non toxic solutions can be effective and simple. Cedar blocks placed inside boxes or near fabrics deter moths and many other bugs. Cotton balls soaked in essential oils such as peppermint, lavender or cinnamon also work well. Place them in corners or on shelves to keep pests away quietly.

Keeping Your Unit Under Control

Even the best packed unit can become a problem if it is left unchecked. Plan to visit your storage unit regularly. Most standard storage units do not have electricity, which also makes them less inviting to pests that prefer warmth or light.  When looking for pests, look for new droppings, nests, damage to fabrics or any new webs. Sweeping or vacuuming occasionally helps keep things clean and discourages pests.

If the facility offers staff cleaning or pest treatments, ask how often they do it. Well maintained sites with clean grounds and strong door seals show that pest control is taken seriously.

What to Do If You Spot Pests

If you notice signs of pests, do not panic. Start by removing and inspecting affected items in daylight. Wash or isolate any fabrics. Clean the area and repack items into clean plastic containers if possible. Sweep the floor and place fresh repellents in key areas.

If activity continues, contact the facility manager. They may offer pest treatments or help check nearby units. For serious cases, you may need professional pest control. Acting early limits damage and helps protect other customers too.

Why You Are Unlikely to Find Pests With Proper Care

Most storage units stay bug free when prepared properly. Pests prefer food, moisture and hidden places, not the clean and well lit space of a sealed plastic packed unit. Facilities also use pest control to reduce risks. When you combine this with your own steps such as cleaning, using plastic containers and making regular visits, the chance of problems becomes very low.

Many storage users online say that pests were only an issue when old cardboard or food was involved. Others admitted they did not clean clothes or raise boxes from the floor. All agreed that simple preparation early on would have prevented the issue.