A few more universal.
Boxes in attic.
As a very general guide if the joists are only 2x4s don t plan on storing much in the attic other than very lightweight items.
In the basement store everything in clear plastic bins labeled and not packed too heavily.
Joists that are 2x8 or larger can likely support more weight.
Whether a birds or moths in the attic a raccoon in the garage or mice in the basement critters aren t concerned with taking care of your belongings as a general rule of thumb nothing in your attic.
Boxes also break down and disintegrate which will attract pests even more.
Pests are attracted to the cardboard and to the glue used in construction of the box says santoro.
If they are 2x6 you can probably get away with some boxes filled with relatively light stuff.
Heat can damage things such as photographs and wood.
You want to make sure you can lift the boxes easily and if they happen to tumble over they don t hurt anyone.
Think empty boxes and suitcases.