3 Tips for Preventing Cockroach Infestations in Self Storage Units
Your storage unit is the perfect safe haven for many pests to breed and reside — especially cockroaches — as the units are generally left alone for long periods of time, which allows the population to multiply exponentially. Although there are more than 3,500 species of cockroaches in this world, the most common varieties you'll find in Australia are the German, American and Oriental cockroaches. To prevent your storage unit from being vulnerable to cockroach infestations, here are 3 tips you can implement.
Avoid Using Cardboard Boxes
Although you might be tempted to pack everything away in cardboard boxes because they are durable and cheap, think again if cockroaches are common in your local area: cockroaches absolutely love cardboard boxes. Not only can they stowaway in small crevices, nooks and crannies, but cardboard boxes are also a wonderful food source for them.
Instead of cardboard boxes, use air-tight plastic storage boxes. These boxes might be a tad more expensive, but they are equally as durable. They are also generally waterproof, and will keep your valuables safe even if any unfortunate circumstances do emerge.
Do Not Store Food (Even Non-Perishable Items)
Although most people recognize that they should not keep food in the storage units, some storage unit owners think that non-perishable food items for emergencies should be an exception. Even canned items that are sealed in an air-tight environment should be avoided.
Over time, temperature fluctuations within the unit may cause the pressure within the cans to increase. These cans may end up exploding. Even if this doesn't happen, some pests have a knack for getting into canned food. Don't take any chances.
Spray Insecticides Regularly
One of the most effective prevention mechanisms that are recommended, but rarely implemented, is to spray insecticides regularly inside the unit. Make sure to concentrate the spray around doorways and entrances in order to deter any cockroaches from even making it inside your unit. Depending on how likely a cockroach infestation may be, you should spray insecticides that target cockroaches generously in your unit at least two to three times a year.
Conclusion
A cockroach infestation will be difficult to deal with, and large populations can be almost impossible to exterminate completely. You definitely don't want to find yourself in a situation where your entire unit is infested with cockroaches, so make sure you take appropriate measures to prevent an infestation from happening in the first place.
For more information, talk to a professional like Bunbury Self Storage.