If you keep finding the same pest over and over again in your home, there is a good possibility you may have an infestation of a stored product pest. Stored product pests are those found in food and fabric products that you store over time. They are often found in pots, pans, dishes, on windowsills, in contaminated food, and in wool rugs, carpets, furs, and feathers. Moths and beetles are the most common of these pests. Indian meal moths contaminate food, clothes moths infest our wool and fur, carpet beetles get into our rugs and carpets, and there are several varieties of beetles that get into our food products. How can you prevent these pests from taking over your home? Check out these tips to prevent storage and pantry pests.
- Buy dried foods in quantities that can be used up in 2 to 4 months.
- Use up your older products before your newer ones.
- Inspect all packages before buying them or bringing them home.
- Store foods in tightly closed containers, preferably those made of glass, metal, or heavy plastic. This includes pet food.
- Keep food storage areas clean by cleaning up crumbs and spills immediately.
- Throw away any unused food products.
- Thoroughly clean cracks and corners of cupboards and doors with a vacuum cleaner.
- Check and clean areas where pet food and birdseed are stored.
- Regularly beat and air out wool rugs (once or twice a month).
- Clean baseboards of pet hair and dust.
- Remove old bird and rodent nests from your attic.
- Contact a pest control professional if you suspect you have an infestation of any of these pests.
