jeudi 13 février 2014

Don't let insect and pests take over your home

By Hilary Harmony


Insect pests in the home are not just a nuisance; they may be harmful too. They can spread disease with their bites and stings, or by contaminating food. Getting rid of infestations, and preventing their return, is not really difficult, but it is necessary to take action quickly and to keep an eye out for danger signs.

Regular floor cleaning

Even small traces of food, such as crumbs and splashes, will be a food source for crawling pests such as cockroaches, so it's important to keep the floor really clean. Vacuum carpets daily, particularly under the dining table, and mop hard floors using a disinfectant cleaner.

Watch out for spills

Food spills in the kitchen will attract pests and can then also be a source of contamination. Wipe down work surfaces immediately after use, preferably using a disinfectant spray, and clean appliances such as cookers and food mixers.

Don't delay the washing up

Leaving dirty dishes by the sink will be a sure-fire attraction for pests. Even if they are soaking in water, soiled plates can bring in flies. It is therefore important to wash up immediately after eating, and to clean sinks and draining boards afterwards.

Keep food stored safely

Fruit flies will find anything in the fruit bowl that has started to go soft, and stored vegetables will also attract pests such as ants if they are kept too long. Check all fresh food regularly, use fruit and vegetables in rotation, and throw out anything unfit to eat. Remember that the bottom of the refrigerator is a good place to store perishable vegetables, and will keep salads fresher for longer.

Storing dry and liquid food

Dry foods such as flour, rice, sugar and cereals should be kept in airtight containers. Liquids, including syrups and sauces, need to be in tightly sealed bottles and jars, which should be wiped after use to ensure that no food residues are left on the outside of the bottle.

Drains and water

Slow-running drains will provide breeding grounds for insects outside the house, and will also draw flying pests such as mosquitoes, which are attracted to water, indoors. Keep drains flowing freely, and make sure that any indoor water sources, such as dripping taps, are remedied as quickly as possible.

Rubbish and recycling bins

Wherever possible, wrap food remains securely before placing them in the dustbin, and rinse out bottles and jars before recycling. Bins should be cleared out, hosed down inside and out, and disinfected on a regular basis. Compost needs to be kept well away from the house, in a covered container if possible.

Don't store dirty clothes

Don't store clothes if they are dirty, as pests will be attracted to them. Moths will attack natural fibres such as silk and wool unless a good deterrent is used. Airtight boxes are a good way of storing clothes safely.




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