How to Keep Rodents Out of a Storage Unit: Prevention & Removal

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Mice might be small (and cute), but the damage they can cause is anything but. Here are a few ways these unwelcome guests can wreak havoc on your stored items:

Mice and rats have strong teeth that can gnaw through wood, plastic, cardboard, and even some types of metal.

This means they can easily chew through your storage boxes, furniture, and other belongings, leaving them damaged and unusable.

Mice droppings and urine can ruin food items and other sensitive materials. And that's not all. Rats and mice are known to spread up to 35 diseases.

This poses health risks to you and anyone else who handles the items. Always take the necessary precautions (like using rubber gloves) when dealing with an infestation.

Mice build nests from any soft material they can find. This includes your upholstered furniture, clothing, and other fabric items. A mouse nest can destroy these items, making them unusable and unsanitary.

Rodents often bring unpleasant smells from their droppings, urine, and nesting materials. These odours can permeate your storage unit and its contents, making it unpleasant to retrieve your belongings.

Rodents have been known to chew through electrical wiring, which can create a serious fire hazard. If your storage units contain any electrical items or wiring, you must be extra vigilant.

Follow the tips below to mice-proof your storage unit and avoid an infestation.

Mice can squeeze through the tiniest of gaps, so it's crucial to seal any potential entry points. Block any potential entry points using chew-resistant materials. For small gaps, pack with steel wool/mesh, then seal with caulk to hold it in place.

For larger holes, use hardware cloth or metal sheeting. Mice can fit through gaps about 6mm wide, so check carefully around doors, pipework, and the floor line.

Cardboard boxes might be convenient, but they're no match for a mouse's teeth. Instead, use sturdy plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.

These containers are much harder for mice to chew through and will protect your belongings from contamination. Make sure the lids are secure to keep curious rodents at bay.

It might seem obvious, but never store food in your storage unit. Even non-perishable items can attract mice.

If you must store food-related items, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and free from any food residue. Remember, even the faintest scent can lure a hungry mouse.

Some people use strong scents like peppermint oil, cloves, or cedar as a deterrent. One lab study found peppermint oil had a short-term repellent effect, but it didn’t persist after a week.

Ultimately, these scents may make an area less appealing briefly, but they won’t stop a determined mouse or solve an active problem. Use them only as a small add-on while you focus on proofing and removing attractants.

For an added layer of protection, consider placing mouse traps in your storage unit. Position traps along walls and near potential entry points. Regularly check and reset the traps to ensure they remain effective. This proactive approach can help catch any adventurous mice before they cause significant damage.

At HOLD, we're big fans of utilising vertical space. Keeping your items off the ground can deter mice from nesting in them. Use shelving units or pallets to raise boxes and furniture.

This makes it harder for mice to access your belongings and protects them from potential moisture damage.

Make it a habit to visit your storage unit regularly. Look for signs of mouse droppings, gnaw marks, or shredded materials. Catching an infestation early can prevent extensive damage. If you notice any signs of rodents, take immediate action to address the issue.

Ensure the storage facility you choose takes pest control seriously. Ask about their pest management practices and look for reviews from other customers.

Self storage facilities like HOLD conduct routine inspections and have pest control measures. This will significantly reduce the risk of rodent infestations.

By following these practical tips, you can protect your storage unit from mice and keep your belongings safe. With a little effort and vigilance, your stored items will remain in pristine condition, free from the pesky intrusions of furry bliters!

HOLD is a storage company that puts your needs first. Our storage facilities are maintained to the highest standards, ensuring they are clean, secure, and pest-free.

With regular pest control measures, 24/7 monitoring, and top-notch customer service, HOLD provides a storage solution you can trust. Whether you're seeking premium business storage solutions or moving house, you couldn't be in safer hands. HOLD provides a reliable and hassle-free storage experience, where your peace of mind is our top priority.