Summer’s a great time for backyard BBQs and lake days but for storage units, it can be the trickiest season of all. High temps, humidity, and every creepy-crawly in the region seem to come out at once. If you’re storing your belongings this summer, don’t let pests or moisture ruin your stuff. Here are a few preventative tips to keep your things safe, sound, and stress-free all season.
Cardboard may be cheap, but it’s also a buffet for bugs and a magnet for mildew.
Instead, go with:
Sturdy plastic bins that seal tightly
Clear containers so you can see what’s inside
Labels to make retrieval easy and avoid digging around
Plastic bins also stack better, which cuts down on clutter and hiding places for bugs.
Storage units aren’t the place for anything that smells strongly or tastes good. Even wrapped snacks or scented products can be enough to lure bugs or rodents.
Avoid storing:
Pantry items or pet food
Candles, soaps, or anything heavily perfumed
Plants, potting soil, or anything organic
If you wouldn’t want it in your trunk for a month, don’t leave it in storage for the summer.
Concrete floors absorb heat and humidity, then release moisture especially when temps change quickly. That “sweating” concrete can ruin furniture legs, cardboard, and fabrics from the bottom up.
Solution:
Lay down wood pallets or plastic risers
Use shelving to stack bins vertically
Put a vapor barrier between the floor and any items that can absorb moisture
A little lift goes a long way in keeping your things dry and clean.
Summer storage is especially hard on upholstered items and wood furniture. If you’re storing these items, take time to protect them properly.
Try this:
Use light, breathable covers instead of plastic sheeting
Cover furniture legs or feet with stretch wrap to prevent pest entry
Place pest repellents like cedar blocks or dryer sheets inside drawers
It keeps the bugs out and helps everything come out of storage looking fresh and ready to use.
Just because your storage unit is doing the heavy lifting doesn’t mean you can ignore it until fall. Make a habit of checking in.
During your visit:
Look for signs of pests or droppings
Check for damp spots or signs of mold
Rearrange bins to encourage airflow and avoid stale corners
Bonus: our 24/7 access means you can swing by during the cooler parts of the day, no need to sweat it out at high noon!
From clean, well-maintained units to round-the-clock access, we’ve got what you need to store confidently, even during peak bug season. If you’re looking for a more affordable option for storage near Joplin, we’d love to help. Our location offers practical, pest-smart storage that works for your life.