When most people think of storage units, they picture boxes of old books, seasonal decorations, or forgotten furniture. But for professionals in the biohazard cleanup industry, these locked-away spaces can hold far more dangerous surprises.
Whether you're a storage facility manager, auction buyer, or family member clearing out a loved one’s unit, it's important to know when to call in experts like Bio-One of Orange — and when it’s too risky to handle alone.
Biohazards You Might Encounter in Abandoned Storage Units
You’d be surprised how often these units contain:
- Rodent infestations with feces and urine-contaminated materials
- Mold and mildew from long-term water damage
- Needles and drug paraphernalia
- Decomposition or biological material (often from forgotten pets)
- Hoarded waste and expired chemicals
These scenarios pose serious health risks and legal liabilities if mishandled.
Why DIY Cleanup is a Dangerous Mistake
Here’s why professional intervention is critical:
- Airborne Hazards: Disturbing rodent droppings or mold can release spores and pathogens into the air.
- Improper Disposal: Biohazardous waste must be disposed of according to California Department of Public Health regulations.
- Hidden Contaminants: What looks like trash may be concealing harmful materials and biohazards.
- Lack of PPE & Training: Most people aren’t equipped with OSHA-compliant personal protective equipment or decontamination protocols.
How Bio-One of Orange Handles Biohazards Safely
Our trained technicians follow strict protocols for identifying, containing, and cleaning biohazards. Services include:
- Full PPE and containment setups
- Use of HEPA vacuums, foggers, and EPA-approved disinfectants
- Safe removal of contaminated items
- Disposal in accordance with CDPH medical waste guidelines
Learn more about our services for biohazard cleanup on our website.
Real Results, Real Relief
We’ve helped storage facility owners, auction buyers, and families across Orange County restore contaminated units safely and quickly. Our goal is to make difficult situations manageable, with compassion and discretion.
For more real-world examples, visit our before & after gallery.


When in Doubt, Call Bio-One of Orange
Whether you're managing a facility or dealing with the unexpected contents of a storage unit, don’t take chances with your health. Contact us for a free assessment today.