How to Protect Your Stored Goods from Mice

Austin
March 19th, 2025

When you store your belongings in a storage unit, the last thing you want to worry about is the possibility of mice getting in and causing damage. Mice can be more than just a nuisance; they can ruin your items by chewing on furniture, clothes, paperwork, or even electronics. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep mice out of your storage unit and protect your belongings from damage. Here’s how tenants can prevent mice from causing trouble in their storage units.

1. Store Items in Sealed, Hard-Sided Containers

One of the best ways to prevent mice from getting to your stored goods is to store them in sealed, hard-sided containers. Plastic bins with tight-fitting lids or metal containers are ideal because they make it harder for mice to chew through and access your belongings. Avoid cardboard boxes, as mice can easily gnaw through them, especially if they’re stored for a long period of time.

2. Elevate Your Belongings

Mice are great climbers and can squeeze into small spaces, but they tend to stay on the ground level. Elevate your boxes and containers off the floor using pallets, shelving units, or other storage racks. This will give your items extra protection from potential rodent activity and make it easier to spot any signs of an infestation before they cause too much damage.

3. Seal Your Unit's Entry Points

While storage facilities take steps to prevent pests, it’s always a good idea to inspect your own unit for any visible gaps or cracks. Check the door seals, corners, and walls for any holes or openings that might allow mice to get in. Seal any weak points with Steel Wool and place traps near them.

4. Use Mice Repellents

Natural repellents like peppermint oil, cedar chips, or mothballs are common ways to deter rodents. You can place small bags or sachets of these items in your storage unit to discourage mice from entering. While not foolproof, these measures can help keep mice at bay.

5. Keep the Storage Unit Clean

Mice are attracted to food and clutter, so keeping your storage unit clean and organized is essential. Avoid storing food or items that could attract rodents, like pet food, birdseed, or anything with a scent. If you're storing items like clothing or blankets, make sure they're clean and free of any food particles or odors that could draw in pests.

6. Check on Your Storage Unit Regularly

Regular visits to your storage unit can help you spot potential issues early on. During these visits, look for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, chewed items, or nesting materials. The sooner you catch a problem, the easier it will be to resolve it without causing significant damage to your stored goods.

7. Consider Using Traps or Baits

If you're particularly worried about mice, setting up traps or bait stations inside your unit may offer an extra layer of protection. However, always check with the storage facility beforehand to ensure this won’t interfere with their pest control policies or cause harm to the surrounding environment. Always make sure to check these traps regularly and remove them when full; otherwise, you may attract more rodents and create a smelly mess in your storage unit.

Conclusion

Mice might be small, but they can cause big problems if they get into your storage unit. By following these simple tips—choosing a reputable storage facility, using proper storage containers, and taking preventative measures like sealing gaps and using repellents—you can significantly reduce the chances of rodents damaging your stored items. Keep your belongings safe, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve done everything you can to protect them!