Pests are a year-round problem in South Florida, thanks to the region’s warm, humid climate. Unfortunately, there are countless ways homeowners attract pests into the home, and food preparation is one of the most impactful. Poor cooking habits give critters large and small the resources they need to survive and thrive inside the home.
Homeowners must be proactive when it comes to pest prevention and eliminating food and water sources is a top priority. Read on to learn about the top three ways your cooking habits can affect pests in your home.
1. Food Debris and Spills Attract and Feed Pests.
From chopping fruits and vegetables to cooking meat, food debris and spills are bound to accumulate in your kitchen, and prompt clean-up is essential if you want to prevent pests from making your home their own. Ants, cockroaches, rodents, and other common pests snack on any leftover crumbs and minor essences of food they can find in small spills.
You’d be surprised at how well pests can thrive on minute food waste that is too small to be seen. Always wipe down counters, floors, and other surfaces with an eco-friendly cleaning agent after preparing food, so you can eliminate any food residue that attracts nuisance pests.
2. Food Waste in the Sink.
While keeping a clean sink—one that’s free from any dirty dishes—is a post-cooking annoyance, it’s also a vital step when it comes to preventing pest problems in the home. Common household pests only need tiny amounts of food to survive, so simply rinsing off dishes and leaving them in the sink isn’t enough. Also, dishes in the sink also allow pockets of water to build up, giving pests the moisture they need.
Make it a point to clean up dishes immediately after cooking and eating, so the sink stays drained, dry, and clean. Remember that leaving dirty dishes in the dishwasher is a bad idea, too. Food particles can still draw pests, even when the dishes are inside the dishwasher. If you want to fully protect your home from pests, ensure your dishes are completely clean after prepping and eating—whether that means washing them by hand or running a cycle in the dishwasher.
3. Prepping Waste for Trash and Recycling.
Proper food preparation also includes prepping waste for the trash or for recycling. Rotting food in the trash quickly attracts pests from near and far, so you should always take out the trash and clean the trash can daily to eliminate any potential food sources. You should also completely rinse recyclables, removing any food particles or sticky residue that could attract bugs or rodents.
Pest Control Is a Year-Round Task in South Florida
South Florida homeowners must be vigilant year-round against several problematic pests, including bugs and rodents. Partnering with an eco-friendly pest control company, like Service Choice of South Florida, is the best way to maintain a pest-free home. Whether you’re interested in preventing pests or you need to deal with an active infestation, our environmentally friendly solutions keep your home pest-free and your family safe. Call us today at (954) 568-9955 for your free consultation!