These pesky insects love to live in the food they are named after, as well as many other edible substances. If you want to keep your flour and other goods free from these pests, there are several steps you should take. First, clean the entire pantry with a bleach and water solution, being sure to cover every crack and corner. Let the area dry completely, and then get rid of any trace of flour beetle life that you can find.
These are commonly found where pet food is made or stored. Indian meal moths like a wide variety of dry foods, and can make their way into the tightest of spots, squeezing through tiny openings and chewing holes through bags. You can keep them away by using a variety of essential oils as a spray in your pantry, which acts as a repellent. You can also scrub any infested areas with a mixture of water, soap, and vinegar.
There are several types of weevils, including the rice weevil, the maize weevil, and the granary weevil. Each of these has particular foods they are drawn to, and many of their preferred foods overlap. You can keep these from taking over your pantry by removing foods that are contaminated and by cleaning the entire pantry thoroughly. It is also a good idea to store problem foods in the freezer for a minimum of four days, as this kills all eggs, larvae, and mature weevils.
This pest’s flat body allows it to easily slip into packaged foods, and even into cracked and damaged grains. The best way to get rid of this food thief is to throw away all infested food and vacuum any loose crumbs from surrounding areas. Store all food in tightly sealed containers to avoid a reinfestation.
These two types of beetles appear almost identical at first glance. They like various edibles and are fairly common. By keeping cornmeal, flours, grains, rice, etc. in tight containers, you will discourage pests’ population growth.
No one wants uninvited visitors in their pantry, especially the ones listed above. By following the proper steps, you can destroy these pantry pests and prevent another invasion. Use these simple tips to ensure that your pantry becomes and stays pest-free.
PATRIOT PEST MANAGEMENT