Essential pest control tips for moving

Moving into a new home can be a thrilling experience, but it also carries the potential for unwelcome houseguests. From tiny insects to larger rodents, pests can easily find their way into your new living space. These uninvited visitors can cause significant damage to your belongings, spread diseases, and create a stressful living environment. Whether you're moving into an older home with a history unknown to you or a brand-new construction, the risk of a pest infestation is a reality that should not be overlooked.

Types of pests to look out for when moving

Different types of pests are attracted to various conditions, and your new home might be the perfect environment for some unwanted guests. Here are the most common pests you may encounter while moving:

• Rodents: These pests are attracted to food, water, and shelter. Moving boxes and clutter can create ideal hiding places for mice and rats.
• Ants: These social insects are often found in kitchens and other areas where food is present.
• Cockroaches: Known for their resilience, cockroaches can thrive in a variety of conditions and can quickly infest a home.
• Spiders: While many are harmless, some can be a nuisance and pose a health risk.
• Termites: These wood-destroying insects can cause extensive damage to your home.
• Bed bugs: These tiny parasites feed on human blood and can be challenging to eliminate.
• Wildlife: Depending on your location, you might encounter raccoons, squirrels, or opossums. 
• Fleas: These small, jumping insects can be a common and frustrating pest when moving, especially if previous occupants had pets. They can lay eggs on carpets and furniture.

Pre-move pest prevention

Before moving into a new home, there are some proactive steps you can take to help reduce the risk of bringing bugs along with you. Here’s how:

1. Declutter: Reducing clutter is your first line of defense against pests. Bugs can hide in old boxes, furniture, and clutter, making them more likely to be packed and moved to the new home. By decluttering, you reduce their hiding spots and the likelihood of moving them to your new place.
2. Inspect and clean: Thoroughly inspect all items for signs of infestation, such as egg sacks or droppings, especially in hidden areas. Clean all items, paying special attention to furniture, curtains, rugs, and kitchen appliances, as these are common hideouts for pests.
3. Seal entry points: Inspect your new home for potential entry points, such as cracks in walls, gaps around doors and windows, and holes in screens. Seal them up to deny pests access.
4. Use new packing materials: While recycling is generally a good practice, using old boxes for moving can increase the risk of pest infestation. Old boxes in long-term storage such as attics, basements, or storage facilities could have been exposed to insects or rodents, harboring eggs or pests. Invest in new, sturdy boxes or plastic containers for your move to minimize this risk.
5. Hire a pest control professional: Western Exterminator technicians can provide preventative pest control treatments before moving in, ensuring your new home is protected from bugs. After receiving pest control treatments, there's no need to wait before moving in. Our technicians use safe and effective methods so you can start enjoying your new home immediately.

Keeping bugs away during the move

During your move, you must ensure you don't transport or attract pests to your new home. Here are some tips you can follow to help minimize the risk of bringing pests into your new home:

1. Secure containers: Use plastic containers with secure lids for packing items, especially food-related goods, fabrics, or anything that might attract pests. These containers are less appealing to pests and provide better protection than cardboard boxes.
2. Furniture care: Consider wrapping large pieces of furniture, particularly sofas and mattresses, in plastic wrap. This can help prevent potential hitchhikers and make inspection at the new home easier.
3. Direct transfer: Try to move items directly from your old home to your new one. Avoid storing belongings in facilities or garages if possible, as these places may expose your items to new pests.

Post-move pest prevention tips

Taking preventative measures as soon as you move in can create a less inviting environment for pests. Here are some practical tips:

1. Inspect as you unpack: Check each box and piece of furniture as you unpack. Look for signs of pests. If you spot any issues, address them immediately to prevent them from spreading.
2. Deep clean before settling in: Even if your new home appears spotless, it’s wise to clean thoroughly before unpacking. This preventative measure ensures that any pests lingering from previous occupants are dealt with.
3. Be cautious with secondhand furniture: When receiving or purchasing secondhand furniture, always exercise caution as these items can harbor pests, including bed bugs and termites. Conduct a thorough inspection and cleaning of any used furniture before bringing it into your home to avoid introducing any unwelcome guests. 

Set up defense: Consider professional pest control services for preliminary home treatment, such as our annual pest control plan, PestFree365 or PestFree365+. With one of these plans in place, you won’t have to worry about pests taking up residence in your new home.

Keep your new home protected from bugs

Protecting your new home from pests requires ongoing vigilance. While initial preventative measures are crucial, a long-term pest control plan is essential to protect your home from unwanted pests. At Western Exterminator, we offer comprehensive pest control services designed to safeguard your property. With regular visits and customized solutions, we can help you enjoy peace of mind, knowing your new home is protected from unwanted intruders. Contact us today to learn more!