24/09/2021
Things to do before pest control treatment
Let’s look at a few points to help you prepare for before your pest control appointment.
1. Access:
Remove any large piece of furniture or appliance away from corners of your home. This will give an ease of access. We can get into the corners where most pests tend to thrive. It also means your furniture and appliances are safe from any spills and spray of the chemicals used during the treatment.
2. Clothes and Furniture:
• Ensure that your clothes, children’s toys, jewelry make-up, toiletries, etc. are all packed away, ideally after covering them in plastic wrapping. Store them inside cabinets and if possible, seal the gaps of the doors and drawers with wide cellotape. Masking tape is not ideal since they are made of paper and will absorb the sprayed chemicals.
• Remove all bed sheets, covers, cushions, pillows, mattresses, etc. and store them away. If you run out of storage space, use plastic wrapping.
• Cover your sofas, chairs and tables with plastic wrapping. Covering them with cloth sheets may not be adequate as the chemicals can pe*****te them.
• For some pests, like termites, you may have to empty out your wooden furniture, including storage beds.
3. Kitchen and Dining Area:
• Clear out the dustbin!
• Clear out your countertops and store all your utensils, cutlery, plates, cups, glasses, etc. Unlike your regular storage equipment, kitchen cabinets are usually sprayed since they attract maximum pests.
• Ideally, move small kitchen appliances out of the kitchen. If that is not possible, unplug and cover them thoroughly with plastic wrapping. If you have to leave them on the countertop, make them easy to move around.
• Cover the water outlet of your water filter and if possible, wrap it with plastic.
• Kitchen sinks are sprayed. So, do not cover them or use them for storage.
• All food must be stored in thick plastic containers. Many pests can chew through thin plastic and seek refuge inside. If possible, place things like spices and chips inside your fridge.
• Speaking of your fridge – you will have to unplug it. Consider finishing off any perishables and discard any leftovers.
4. Pets:
Pets are usually very sensitive to the chemicals used during pest treatment. It will be great if you can drop off your pet at a neighbour’s or friend’s place for the duration of the pest control treatment.
• Store your pet’s bedding and toys carefully.
• Get your furry friend a flea and tick treatment.
• Aquariums must be covered tightly with plastic. Make sure your fishes have adequate food for the duration. If you don’t have one already, this is a good time to get some kind of auto feeder for your fish.
• Turn off any aquarium air pumps as they will suck in air-borne chemicals and introduce them into the water.
5. Paintings and Flower Pots:
• The paint of your favourite wall decoration may not like the chemicals, so try covering them with plastic.
• Flower pots and other decorative vegetation are best left in the open. Consider a balcony that won’t be sprayed or the roof. Some plants can be wrapped, but others may wither away.
6. Bathroom:
• If they will be sprayed, bathrooms are best emptied out completely.
• You will need to pay special attention to your toothbrushes, floss, shaving razors, etc. It is best to replace your soaps and detergents after the treatment.
