How to Keep Unwanted Visitors Out of Your Storage Unit
September 30, 2025
Storing your belongings at a self-storage facility is a convenient way to free up space at home, move during a transition, or keep seasonal items safe. But one thing nobody wants in their storage unit is uninvited guests, bugs, rodents, or other critters that can damage your belongings and create unnecessary stress.
Why Pests Are a Concern in Storage Units
Even the cleanest storage unit can attract pests if certain precautions aren’t taken. Bugs and critters are drawn to food, moisture, cardboard, and cluttered spaces, common elements in many storage units. Once they settle in, these pests can:
- Damage your belongings: Rodents may chew through boxes, furniture, or wiring. Insects like silverfish or termites can damage papers, fabrics, or wooden items.
- Create hygiene issues: Droppings, nests, or insect residue can contaminate items and create unpleasant odors.
- Lead to costly replacements: Damage from pests can turn a simple storage solution into an expensive headache.
Fortunately, with a few careful strategies, you can dramatically reduce the risk of pests taking up residence in your unit.
Prepare Your Items Before Storage
The first step to keeping critters out is to make sure your belongings are ready for storage:
- Clean and dry everything thoroughly. Dirt, crumbs, and moisture attract pests, so wash and dry all items before packing them away. Furniture, clothing, and even electronics should be free of dirt and moisture.
- Avoid storing perishable or food items. Even sealed packages of food can attract insects and rodents. If you must store kitchen items, stick to non-perishable, well-sealed containers and keep them off the floor.
- Inspect items for signs of pests. Before putting anything in your storage unit, check for signs of existing infestations, such as webs, droppings, or tiny holes in boxes.
Choose the Right Storage Containers
How you pack your items can make a big difference in preventing pests:
- Use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids. Cardboard boxes are easy for insects and rodents to chew through, while durable plastic containers create a stronger barrier.
- Seal boxes and wraps. Use tape to close seams and consider shrink wrap for extra protection.
- Elevate items off the floor. Keeping boxes on pallets or shelves reduces exposure to moisture and makes it harder for critters to reach your belongings.
Maintain a Clean Storage Unit
A tidy unit is a pest-free unit. Here are some tips for ongoing maintenance:
- Leave space for airflow. Pests thrive in damp, stagnant conditions. Proper spacing between items improves ventilation and reduces moisture buildup.
- Check your unit regularly. Visiting your storage unit every few weeks allows you to spot potential issues early, such as leaks, condensation, or signs of pests.
- Keep the surrounding area clean. If you’re using a self-storage facility like Guardian Storage, make sure outdoor items near your unit are tidy and free of debris that can attract critters.
Additional Pest Prevention Tips
- Use natural deterrents. Cedar chips, lavender sachets, or mothballs can repel insects in smaller storage spaces.
- Avoid cardboard direct contact with concrete floors. Cardboard can absorb moisture, which attracts pests; placing bins on pallets or shelving is a simple fix.
- Keep the unit sealed. Ensure doors close properly and any gaps are addressed to prevent critters from sneaking in.
Peace of Mind with Guardian Storage
Protecting your belongings doesn’t have to be complicated. By preparing your items, packing them securely, and taking advantage of Guardian Storage’s safe and well-maintained units, you can enjoy the convenience of self-storage without worrying about pests.
If you’re ready to store your items securely or want tips on protecting specific belongings, Guardian Storage is here to help. Visit our size guide or give us a call to get started. Our friendly team can guide you through selecting the right unit and offer advice on keeping your items safe, so you can focus on what matters most.
When you’re decluttering, moving, or simply trying to make more space at home, one of the biggest challenges is figuring out what to keep and what to let go of. It’s easy to get attached to belongings, but when every item takes up valuable space, those decisions really matter. A storage unit can be a lifesaver for keeping the things you don’t currently need but still want to hold onto. But how do you know what belongs in storage and what should be donated or tossed? Why It Matters to Be Selective Not everything deserves a spot in your storage unit. Choosing carefully not only helps you save money by using the right-sized unit, but it also makes it easier to find the things you actually need down the road. Storing thoughtfully means your unit won’t become a catch-all for clutter, you’ll know it’s full of items that truly matter. Items Worth Keeping in a Storage Unit Some things are simply too valuable, seasonal, or useful to get rid of. Here are categories of items that usually make sense to keep in storage: 1. Seasonal Items Holiday decorations, winter gear like skis and snow blowers, or summer items like patio furniture and camping equipment don’t need to take up space year-round. A storage unit is perfect for keeping them safe until you’re ready to use them again. 2. Furniture Not in Use Maybe you’re downsizing, redecorating, or saving a couch or dining set for a child’s first apartment. Storing furniture allows you to hold onto these bigger items without crowding your garage or basement. 3. Sentimental or Heirloom Pieces Family photo albums, keepsakes, or heirloom furniture often carry value that isn’t about money, it’s about memories. A clean, secure storage unit gives you peace of mind knowing those irreplaceable items are protected. 4. Hobby or Business Supplies Whether it’s crafting materials, sports equipment, or extra inventory for a small business, storage units can help you stay organized while keeping your home clutter-free. Items Better Off Donated or Tossed Just as important as knowing what to keep is recognizing what doesn’t need to come with you. Here are things that are usually better donated or discarded: 1. Clothes You Haven’t Worn in Years If you haven’t reached for it in a year or two, chances are you won’t again. Donating gently used clothing helps others while freeing up space for things you actually wear. 2. Outdated Electronics That drawer of old cords, DVD players, or broken gadgets? Most of those items won’t ever be useful again. Recycle or dispose of them responsibly instead of letting them sit in storage. 3. Duplicate Household Items Extra sets of pots, pans, or bedding might feel worth saving, but if you already have what you need at home, duplicates only create clutter. 4. Bulky Equipment Rarely Used That treadmill you swore you’d use or the oversized appliance gathering dust may not be worth the space they take up. Consider selling, donating, or recycling them. 5. Prohibited or Perishable Items For safety reasons, you can’t store things like food, flammable materials, or hazardous chemicals. These should always be discarded or disposed of properly. Tips for Making the Decision Sorting items can feel overwhelming, but a few simple guidelines can make the process easier: The One-Year Rule: If you haven’t used something in the past year, ask yourself if you’ll realistically use it in the next year. Think About Replacement Cost: If it’s inexpensive and easy to replace, it may not be worth saving. Consider Emotional Value: Keep items with true sentimental meaning, not just out of guilt. Ask “Does This Add Value to My Life?” If the answer is no, it’s probably time to let it go. How Guardian Storage Can Help Once you’ve sorted your belongings, you’ll want a safe and convenient place for the items you choose to keep. At Guardian Storage, we offer clean, secure storage units in a range of sizes to fit your needs. Whether you’re storing family heirlooms, seasonal gear, or furniture between moves, you can trust us to keep your belongings protected and accessible when you need them. Visit our size guide or give us a call and let us help you find the right fit for your treasured items.
If you’ve ever packed for a trip and realized halfway through that your suitcase is too small (or way too big), you already know how tricky it can be to estimate space. The same goes for choosing the right size storage unit. Whether you're moving, decluttering, or just need extra space, picking a unit that fits your needs, without overpaying for unused space, is key. Here’s a simple guide to help you figure it out, no measuring tape required. Why Storage Unit Size Matters Choosing the right size storage unit can save you money, reduce stress, and protect your belongings. Too small, and you’ll end up frustrated (or renting a second unit). Too big, and you’re paying for empty space you don’t need. Our goal is to help you find the right size. The Most Common Storage Unit Sizes (And What Fits Inside) Here’s a breakdown of the most popular storage unit sizes and what you can typically fit in each: 5x5 (25 sq. ft.) – “Hall Closet” Perfect for: A few boxes Seasonal items (holiday decorations, winter coats, etc.) Small furniture (end tables, lamps) Office supplies or small file cabinets This is ideal if you’re just looking to declutter or need a little extra space for personal items. 5x10 (50 sq. ft.) – “Walk-in Closet” Great for: Studio apartment or dorm room contents A mattress set, dresser, and several boxes Sporting gear, bikes, or tools This is a common choice for students or anyone downsizing for a short time. 10x10 (100 sq. ft.) – “Half a Garage” Fits: Contents of a 1-bedroom apartment Large appliances like a refrigerator or washer/dryer Furniture (couch, dining table, mattress sets) One of the most popular sizes, great for both short-term and long-term use. 10x15 (150 sq. ft.) – “Large Bedroom” Perfect for: 2–3 rooms worth of furniture Large appliances and boxes Business inventory or equipment Ideal for families in transition or small business owners needing extra inventory space. 10x20 (200 sq. ft.) – “Standard Garage” Fits: Contents of a 2–3 bedroom home A vehicle, or large equipment Furniture, outdoor gear, and more Moving homes or remodeling? This is your go-to. How Do You Know What Size You Need? Here are a few simple questions to ask yourself before you book: 1. What are you storing? Make a quick list of the large items first, like couches, mattresses, appliances, and shelving units. Then add in boxes, bins, or anything oddly shaped (like lamps or bikes). If you’re just storing clothing and decor, you can probably go smaller than you think. 2. Will you need to access your stuff often? If you plan to grab things regularly (like business inventory or seasonal decorations), go a little bigger. This gives you space to walk in, move around, and keep things organized. 3. Are your items fragile or bulky? Fragile items often need room to be packed and protected properly. You’ll want to avoid stacking them or cramming them into tight spaces. The same goes for bulky furniture or equipment, measure and consider a size up if necessary. 4. Is this a short-term or long-term solution? For long-term storage, it’s better to leave a little extra room for air circulation and future items. If it’s short-term and you’re okay with packing things tightly, you can likely go smaller. Pro Tip: Do a “Trial Run” at Home Try stacking your items in one room (or your garage) and measure the footprint. You might be surprised how much, or how little, space you actually need. If you're still unsure, our team at Guardian Storage is always happy to help. Avoid These Common Sizing Mistakes Don’t underestimate how many boxes you have. They add up fast! Avoid renting a unit that’s too small “just to save money.” You could end up having to rent a second unit or risk damaging your stuff from over-packing. Remember vertical space. Most units are at least 8 feet tall, which means you can stack, just make sure it’s safe to do so. Ready To Get Started? Choosing a storage unit size doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think about what you’re storing, how often you’ll need access, and whether you’ll be adding more in the future. When in doubt, it’s worth a quick chat with someone who knows the ropes. At Guardian Storage, we take pride in making your storage experience as easy and stress-free as possible. Whether you're storing a few boxes or an entire household, our team is ready to help you find the perfect fit. Ready to get started? Visit our size guide or give us a call to speak with a friendly team member today. We’re always here when you need a little extra space.
