Follow these storage tips to keep your attic or basement bug free.
How to keep bugs out of attic storage.
If any moisture issues move your holiday decorations to another area for storage.
The key to keep an infestation at bay is to create no incentive for pests to stay.
To keep pests out of your storage areas get year round pest treatments.
Build a low cost custom closet.
For larger storage projects a climate controlled storage space is the best bet but this isn t always feasible.
Bugs can burrow into any upholstered furniture and rodents will chew through it.
Keep storage area dry well ventilated and free of clutter.
To prevent them from coming in use a plastic mattress cover that is specifically designed for keeping pests out.
The most common way that bed bugs get in storage units is through mattresses.
This means eliminating enticing elements that lure pests.
A secondary closet space or storage under the bed are some of the best spots.
For homeowners the attic is a place to keep unused items out of sight and out of mind.
Rodents can quickly chew through cardboard plus plastic boxes stack better than cardboard.
Sure pasta can last up to 2 years past its expiration date but please don t keep it in your storage unit.
Holiday decorations family records old books off season clothes and other items in long term storage provide an attractive food source for many common attic pests.
Why pests and bugs are attracted to the attic.
Inspect your storage areas.
Yes the upfront expense of plastic versus cardboard is considerably more but the investment will pay off later.
Typically used as a storage room rather than as a family gathering place the lack of activity in this part of the house makes attics the perfect shelter for pests and rodents.
Don t store food ever.
Airtight and watertight plastic storage totes will keep out bugs and dampness too.
Larger bins work for storing bulkier blankets and pillows in your basement attic or rented storage unit.
The attic provides a safe and relatively secure home for outside invaders.
For many insects however the attic offers an all you can eat buffet.
Make sure any mattress you keep in storage is free of insects before storage.
Eliminating moisture in your attic or basement is paramount in keeping these areas free from bugs such as silverfish cockroaches or mosquitoes.
Otherwise try to keep the clothes inside your insulated house and away from less protected areas whenever possible.