How to Prepare Your Home For Pest Control Treatment

Termites cause $5 billion in property damage every year in the United States alone. Yes, billion! 

Besides the cost, there is also the hassle and health impact from pests such as ants, lice, ticks, bees, rodents, and more. 

In order for your pest control treatment to be most effective, you must do some prep. Read on to learn what you need to do before bringing in the exterminator. 

Pest Control Prep

When you are preparing your home for a professional exterminator, there are many things you can do to get ready.

Yes, it will take some elbow grease but it will reduce the likelihood of having repeat infestations.

Here are the steps you should take to prep your space for pest control treatments.

Move Furniture and Large Appliances Away From Walls

Your pest control expert needs easy access to anywhere pests have been seen or might be hiding. Move all your furniture and big appliances away from the walls. 

Ideally, move everything at least three to four feet from the walls so pest control can check for signs of pests. Check out elevatepestcontrol.com for more details. 

Scrub the Floor and Vacuum the Carpets

All flooring needs to be thoroughly cleaned. Use a good deterrent or a dash of vinegar and hot water solution on your hard floors. Vacuum your carpets and use your crevice attachment to get into corners and cracks.

Make sure to get behind the furniture and appliances you’ve just moved.  

Put Food Away

Before treatment, you need to store any food from countertops or work surfaces. 

Cooking utensils and small appliances should also be stored if you have space to do so.

Any food products that aren’t in cupboards or the fridge must be fully covered before and for some time after pest control treatment.

Remove Indoor Plants and Pets

Some of the treatments that kill pests can also hurt your plants. Gather any plants and move them outdoors,  to your garage or your car.

During treatment, you will need to relocate your pets whenever possible. If any pets can’t be moved (such as aquariums and birdcages) be sure to cover their habitats with sheets or towels.

Wash Your Linens

If you have a bed bug infestation, you will need to remove all bedding from all mattresses and box springs.

Then, wash the linens in hot water. Do not replace the sheets until hour hours after treatment or until instructed by the pest control officer. 

Clear the Clutter

Critters love clutter. Be sure to clear your floors of piles of clothes, paper, books, toys, and shoes. 

This is a good practice to develop not just for pest control treatment but for daily cleanliness. Now might be a good time to do a Marie Kondo declutter!

Ready for Pest Control Treatment

There you go! Now that you’ve read this article, you are ready for the pest control treatment. Dealing with bugs can be a hassle, but your prep goes a long way in ensuring they are gone for good!

Now, check out our other articles for more great content.