Books, family records, clothing, and other items in long-term storage are attractive food sources for attic pests such as silverfish, moths, and carpet beetles. Because storage items are rarely examined, pest infestations can go undetected until serious damage has already been done. Preventive pest control is the best way to deal with pests in home storage areas. Protect your precious heirlooms and irreplaceable items by following the five tips listed below.
1. Inspect Boxes Before Taking them Out of Storage.
Avoid spreading insects to other areas of your home by inspecting storage boxes for evidence of pests before bringing them out of storage. As you unpack the contents, continue looking for insects, and vacuum each item thoroughly to remove any pests or eggs.
2. Clean Storage Equals Pest-Free Storage.
Cleanliness is a crucial preventive pest control method. Crumbs and sticky spills attract insects. Dust, dirt, residue and other organic material helps pests thrive. Before bringing in new boxes, thoroughly clean the storage area by mopping, vacuuming, and removing any cobwebs. Going forward, prevent pest infestations by thoroughly cleaning out storage areas such as basements, attics, and closets at least once every year. Finally, don't keep any plants or food in or near your storage containers--these organic materials attract pests.
3. Use Plastic Storage Containers with Tight Lids.
Preventive pest control includes removing all potential food for pests. This includes the storage containers themselves. Plastic storage bins offer the best protection, since pests can't chew through them. Look for plastic bins with tight-fitting lids. During your annual cleaning, check to ensure that your storage containers are still sealed. Any cracked or broken bins should be replaced.
4. Maintain a Cool, Dry Climate.
Rain is a major challenge for Portland pest control professionals. Wet conditions outdoors drives insects and critters indoors, and any moisture that gets inside is a convenient water source for pests.
To combat the potential pest problems posed by rainy, wet weather, patch up any cracks in your home's exterior that might allow water to seep in. Additionally, make sure that the climate in your attic or storage space is dry and cool.
5. Use Preventive Pest Control products.
For the health of your pets and family, it's wise to avoid chemical preventive pest control products. Instead, choose natural alternatives such as scented soaps, cedar blocks, or even Diatomaceous earth (a natural ground material that only harms insects and microscopic bugs). Silverfish, moths and other storage pests are generally repelled by such methods. When used safely and carefully, traps can also be effective pest deterrents.
By putting a little effort into preventive pest control for your home storage items, you can ward off most infestations before they happen. However, if the problem has become unmanageable or you're not sure how to go about securing your storage space against pests, consult a Portland pest control service that specializes in preventive pest control or Integrated Pest Management. You'll thank yourself later on, when you rummage through storage and find that family heirloom or Halloween costume still in pristine, pest-free condition.