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Stored product pests can be found anywhere in the United States. Therefore, you can’t let them catch you off-guard. If you do, there is a good chance that they’re going to enter your home and turn out life upside-down. They’re also called pantry pests. They’re found in processed and dried food products. Some of the most common products impacted by pantry pests include birdseed, spices, flour, crackers, cereal, powdered milk, dried fruit, and dry pet food. In our area, clients primarily encounter cigarette beetles, Indian meal moths, and saw-toothed grain beetles.
While these pests aren’t dangerous, they’re a nuisance. Plus, they’re going to cost you a fortune because you’ll need to throw away the infested food. Cleaning your home thoroughly won’t stop pantry pests from invading or make them leave.
More About Common Pantry Pests
Indian Meal Moths
You’ll encounter a handful of pantry pests, but the Indian meal moth is one of the most common pests in our area. The small moth has multiple colors, including brown forewings and a white or gray front. Although the moths are annoying, the larvae are going to destroy the food products in your home. They’ll consume various foods including crackers and cereal. They’re difficult to eliminate. The moths will build cocoons in your home and begin reproducing.
Saw-Toothed Grain Beetles
Since they’re brown and a tenth of an inch, the saw-toothed grain beetles in your home are going to be difficult to pinpoint. You may eat them without realizing you have a problem. Adult and young beetles are going to damage your food products. While they’ll consume other foods in your home, they’re primarily after cereal, flour, dried fruit, and candy. They’ll also eat pet food.
Cigarette Beetles
Cigarette beetles have a humped back and a thirst for tobacco products. They’ll attack any tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and loose tobacco. In addition to this, they’re going to eat cereals, nuts, pet food, and spices. They’re an eighth of an inch and light brown.
What Causes Pantry Pest Invasions?
You’re likely wondering what you did to cause the pantry pest infestation. In most cases, it wasn’t something you need. Unfortunately, products at your local store may contain pantry pests. They’re difficult to see because they blend in exceptionally well with the food products they eat. Unfortunately, you might purchase a box of contaminated cereal and take it home with you. Once you’ve done that, the infestation will quickly worsen. Pantry pests live in the food they eat so they never stop eating or reproducing.
Common Signs Of Pantry Pests
Again, pantry pests blend in with the foods they consume. Therefore, it won’t be easy to spot them. Most people don’t realize they have an infestation until they begin seeing beetles and moths around their kitchens. You’ll have to look at your food products closely to find out that you have a problem.
Dangers?
Thankfully, most pantry pests are not dangerous to people or pets. Whether you’re dealing with cigarette beetles, Indian meal moths, or saw-toothed grain beetles, you can rest assured knowing they’re not dangerous. You can eat them by mistake without getting ill. Nevertheless, you don’t want this to happen. Instead, you’re going to throw away the contaminated food. As a result, there is a good chance that the infestation is going to cost you a lot of money.
Preventing Infestations
Pantry pests are difficult to eliminate and prevent. Still, you should try your pests to keep them out of your home. For instance, you should start by properly storing your food products. Make sure they’re stored in airtight, durable containers. You’ll also need to clean your pantry shelves regularly. Get rid of any leftovers and food crumbs. When purchasing new food products, it is a good idea to store them in new containers. If you combine the new food with old food, there is a good chance that both are going to become infested with pantry pests.
Remember that you can test food products to see if they’re infested. Add them into a plastic bag and let them sit for a month or so. If the food is infested, you’ll find out quickly. Always clean food storage containers before using them away.
How To Eliminate Pantry Pests
It is often difficult to eliminate pantry pests on your own. If you’re not efficient, you won’t get all pests. Instead, the infestation will remain, and it’ll worsen again. DIY methods help, but they’re not always reliable. In some cases, they won’t help at all. Use the advice below to get rid of the pantry pests in your home.
- Throw out any food that has been infested with pantry pests.
- Thoroughly clean your pantries. Remove everything and vacuum the shelves. Be sure to wipe down the shelves and walls. Get every corner.
- Place the vacuum’s contents in a plastic bag. Doing so will reduce the risk that they’re going to escape and return.
You can experiment with over-the-counter products, but some of them are dangerous. Instead, it is a good idea to let a professional handle it for you. Call us and we’ll eliminate the pantry pests in your home promptly. Call today and your home could be free of pests tomorrow.
When Can You Start?
We’re ready to help. After you’ve called us, we’ll call you within 48 hours.
Safe Treatments
Our pantry pest treatments are safe because we use EPA-registered products. We take extra steps to ensure that our clients are going to be protected during each step of the treatment process. If you’re worried about your safety or your loved ones, depend on our services. We’ll make sure that you’re not exposed to any dangerous chemicals.
Preventing Invasions Of Pantry Pests
Ultimately, pantry pests are difficult to eliminate and harder to keep out of your home. Remember food products at your local store could be infested. It is hard to see the pests when they’re hiding among the food in question. Although it’ll be hard to see them, check your food packages carefully. Don’t bring the packages inside if it looks like they have pantry pests.
If you have any other pest control issues please check out other services.
