Pantry pests are horrifying. They get in your food and make you worry even more for your family’s health. The National Pest Management Association lists beetles, pillbugs, weevils, and Indian meal moths as common types of pantry pests. For your peace of mind, we’ve compiled these tips that will help to guard your home against pantry raiders.
Utilize Proper Storage
Proper storage of food and home décor is a must when keeping bugs out. Some bugs will live and breed in home decorations such as potpourri. Store your decorations in air tight containers to keep the bugs away. You should also store your food in airtight containers. This will keep your pantry looking lovely, and it will keep your food fresh, too.
Bay Leaves
Fun fact: some pantry pests hate the smell of bay leaves. Keep whole bay leaves on the inside of your cabinets to help keep bugs at bay. (Yes, pun definitely intended.)
Check Your Groceries
A lot of pantry pests are brought in from an outside source, like the grocery store. Inspect your groceries’ packaging before buying to ensure there is not any damage on the box. If there is damage, even the slightest bit, do not purchase. Choose a different box.
Keep it Clean
Be sure to clean up any spills that occur in your kitchen. Spills attract a myriad of pests such as ants or mice. You should also clean out your pantry periodically to throw out old food and to clean any spills that may have happened in the recesses of your pantry. If you’re feeling ambitious, you should wipe down the inside of your cabinets with disinfectant wipes.
Pest-Proof your Home
Seal any cracks around the outside of your home, particularly around utility pipes. Pests can easily find their way inside through these cracks and crevices. You should also check your window screens for tears and repair or replace them as needed. Click here to see more on how to pest-proof your home.
If you have an infestation, contact us at Smarterpestcontrol.com or call us, and we can get one our pest management professionals to your home or business to investigate and discuss treatment options.