Cleaning Tips to Get Your House Pest-Free
There’s nothing worse than opening a cupboard and seeing a cockroach scurry away, or having flies buzzing around your kitchen while you’re trying to enjoy a meal. Pests like cockroaches, ants, and flies are common in Queensland’s warm climate, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with them! With a few simple cleaning tricks and preventive measures, you can send these uninvited guests packing. Follow this step-by-step guide to keep your home pest-free.
Step 1: Keep Your Kitchen Spotless
Pests love food, and your kitchen is their all-you-can-eat buffet if it’s not cleaned properly.
Wipe down benchtops and tables daily to remove crumbs and spills.
Store all food in airtight containers – including pet food!
Take the rubbish out regularly and keep bins sealed.
Clean out your toaster crumb tray and microwave – hidden crumbs attract pests.
Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight; wash them or put them in the dishwasher.
Step 2: Remove Water Sources
Just like us, pests need water to survive.
Fix any leaky taps or pipes – cockroaches thrive in damp areas.
Empty and dry your pet’s water bowls overnight.
Ensure there’s no standing water in plant trays or under the fridge.
Step 3: Seal Entry Points
If pests can’t get in, they can’t make themselves at home.
Check for gaps under doors, around windows, and in walls – seal them with caulk or weather stripping.
Install fly screens on windows and doors.
Use door sweeps to block cockroaches and ants from sneaking in.
Step 4: Use Natural Deterrents
No need for harsh chemicals when you can keep pests at bay naturally.
Wipe surfaces with vinegar and water – ants hate it!
Place bay leaves in your pantry to deter cockroaches.
Use citronella candles or essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus to repel flies.
Step 5: Declutter and Deep Clean
Pests love hiding in dark, cluttered spaces.
Regularly vacuum and mop floors to remove food particles and dust.
Declutter storage areas, especially cardboard boxes where cockroaches hide.
Wash curtains and clean behind furniture to remove cobwebs and insect eggs.
Step 6: Stay on Top of Outdoor Areas
The outside of your house can invite pests in if you’re not careful.
Keep your lawn trimmed and remove excess leaves and debris.
Store firewood and outdoor furniture away from the house.
Clean gutters regularly to prevent standing water and mosquito breeding.
Step 7: Call in the Professionals (If Needed)
If the infestation is out of control, don’t hesitate to get expert help.
A pest control professional can assess the situation and treat problem areas.
Consider regular inspections, especially during warmer months when pests thrive.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your home pest-free is all about cleanliness, prevention, and consistency. By following these simple steps, you’ll reduce the chances of pests invading your space and enjoy a cleaner, healthier home. The key is staying vigilant – if you see a stray ant or cockroach, act fast before it becomes an infestation!
Happy cleaning!