Faqs About Pet Products And Self Storage
What pet items can you put into a self-storage unit? Your playful pup's or feline friend's gear won't fit into your home easily. Now what? Take a look at what you need to know about pet accessories, de-cluttering, and your storage options.
What Can and Can't You Store?
The answer to this question depends on the storage facility. Most storage companies won't allow anything perishable in rental units. This includes dog and cat food or treats. Even if the pet food comes in cans or an air-tight bag, these items don't belong in a storage unit. Not only could the food potentially spoil (especially if the unit isn't climate controlled), but these perishable products can attract pests to the storage facility.
Store your pet's non-perishable gear in a self-storage unit instead. Dog beds, cat cushions, an extra scratching post, leashes, toys, leads, crates, and carriers are all perfect pet picks for storage. Along with these items, you can also store pet food bowls and water bowls or dispensers.
How Should You Prepare Pet Items for Storage?
Different pet items require different prep steps. Wash anything soft or fabric covered—such as pet blankets, stuffed toys, beds, and cushions. Dry everything completely before you pack pet items for storage. These steps can reduce the risk you'll accidentally transport fleas, ticks, or other pests into the rental unit. After you wash and dry these soft items, pack everything in a container. Put larger items, such as dog beds, into bags. Fold blankets and pack them into plastic bins or fill a garbage bag.
Wipe off leashes, leads, collars, and harnesses. Follow the manufacturer's directions for hand or machine washing. You also need to completely clean and dry extra bowls, food dispensers, crates, and carriers. Never leave dried food or other debris on or in these items. Again, this can attract pests.
Store larger crates and carriers as-is. Cover the items with a moving blanket or tarp to keep them clean and dust-free in storage. Smaller bowls, food dispensers, or solid (non-stuffed) toys can go into sturdy plastic bins or heavy-duty cardboard boxes.
Do You Need to Label Pet Products?
Yes, you should label pet products—and everything else in your storage rental unit. An easy-to-read label can help you to quickly and accurately identify your pet's excess items in storage. Use a permanent marker and masking tape to make a label or write the contents of the container directly onto the box or bin.
Contact a local self-storage facility for additional information.