Have you included pest control before travel in your checklist? Most people will be busy packing their bags, passports and tickets. However, not many people will consider pest control. Leaving your home empty leaves lots of opportunity for ants, roaches and rodents. With no people, no noise and plenty of crumbs to munch on, you will come back to a huge mess. Read below for our quick guide on how to prepare a house before vacation. There are 9 jobs to complete however most of them can be completed within 10 minutes.
Why do empty homes attract pests?
With no disturbances pests will want to make a nest somewhere quiet. They will have an easy source of water and any leftover food. Cockroaches will multiply rapidly, ants will follow the trails and eat the smallest piece of food and rodents will look for somewhere warm and dark. A small issue can become a big issue within 2 weeks.
1. Food
Try to eat any food that you have opened. Put any dry food (rice, flour, sugar) into hard airtight containers, as the first step of pest control before travel. Don’t put food in bags as they can easily be chewed through.
2. Trash
Try to clear any bins from your home. Any wet food will start to smell quickly. Make sure you clean your bin and it is fully dry.
3. Kitchen
Make sure your kitchen is clean. Wipe down your worktops, clean your cooker and sink. This is the most important part of cleaning the house before a long trip. Even a little grime can be food for cockroaches.
4. Fridge
If you are going away for a few weeks, empty your fridge and clean. This will leave your fridge smelling fresh and stop mould. If you are only going away for a few days leave your fridge on but empty any food that may go off.
5. Seal gaps
Look for any small gaps around your doors, windows, pipes and vents. Pests can come through these gaps so try to seal them using some sealant. If there is a gap underneath your door then fit a door sweep.
6. Leaks and Sinks
Pests love water! Make sure you fix any leaking taps. Clean your sink and bathroom floor. Keeping water under control is a big part of pest prevention before holiday.
7. Clothes and Bedding
Pests are attracted to dirty clothes and sweaty bedding. Wash your items and keep your clothes and bedding in airtight cupboards.
8. Balcony, Plants and Drains
Move any potted plants away from your doors. Clean your floor drains and cover them if possible, as part of pest control before travel. Pests love damp areas that are forgotten about.
9. Professional Pest Control
Whilst some of these jobs can be completed by you, book pest control before travel to help protect your home. Book it a week in advance. If you are looking for a professional empty house pest control in Sharjah, ask about safe and non smelly pest control.
FAQs
How far in advance should I book pest control?
Book pest control approximately a week in advance so you can monitor any issues.
Can I leave food in sealed containers in my kitchen?
Yes, as long as your dry food is in hard airtight containers. Remove any perishable items (Fruit, Bread, Leftovers).
Is professional pest control safe for my family?
Most modern pest control is safe if completed by trained professionals. Ask what products they will be using. Keep children and pets away until everything is dry.
Summing Up
You can stop pests getting into your home by leaving it empty for weeks. Complete the 9 steps above and return to your clean and peaceful home.
If you are short on time, utilise professionals. Al Atta Pest Control offers a reliable pest control service in Sharjah. Make sure to add pest control to your checklist before your travels this winter for a stress free holiday.