Identifying Mysterious Droppings in Stored Clothing

What You’re Seeing

Light yellowish-tan, disk-shaped droppings about the size of a pencil eraser, concentrated in one area of a storage box, strongly suggest rodent activity—likely mice or rats.

Immediate Actions

1. Disinfect immediately. Spray a disinfectant on the droppings and surrounding area before cleaning to avoid aerosolizing pathogens.
2. Wear gloves and a mask. Clean up with paper towels, seal in a plastic bag, and discard outdoors.
3. Wash affected clothing in hot water with detergent.
4. Inspect the storage unit for entry points and seal gaps larger than ¼ inch.

Health Note

Rodent droppings can carry hantavirus and other diseases. Avoid sweeping or vacuuming dry droppings; wet-clean instead.

Prevention

• Use sealed plastic totes instead of cardboard boxes.
• Elevate storage off the floor.
• Place snap traps or live traps along walls.
• Consider a professional pest inspection if infestation is extensive.