How to Keep Pantry Pests Away

With summer finally here, it’s the perfect time to clean out old food in your pantry and prepare for the end of the year. Now is the perfect time to refresh the baking supplies and replace any snack bags that have been open for a while.

Pantry pests don’t cause structural damage to your home and don’t pose much of a threat to people or pets, but they can penetrate through plastic and cardboard, leaving food in your pantry vulnerable. Once a food source is affected, these pests can multiply quickly and can spread to other food items.

Do I have Pantry Pests?

A good way to determine if you have pantry pests is if you notice beetle-like pests near food sources or moths flying around the kitchen. If you suspect you have pantry pests, inspect your dry food immediately, throw out anything infested, and do a thorough cleaning throughout the area.

How to Prevent 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.
• Properly store food items, including pet food, in tightly sealed containers, preferably with plastic or glass.
• Wipe down shelves and floors regularly.
• Thoroughly clean cracks and corners of cupboards and doors with a vacuum cleaner.
• Inspect all packages before buying them or bringing them home.

If you suspect your kitchen has been invaded by pantry pests and need assistance with the problem, reach out to your local pest control company. A pest professional can assist with locating, eliminating, and providing suggestions for future pest prevention.