The term “pantry pest” describes small creatures such as moths, beetles, and weevils that commonly find their way into stored food items such as grains, pasta, cereal, flour, and cake mix. These pests often infiltrate homes, grocery stores, and restaurants and begin feeding on foods and breeding. After grocery shopping, homeowners might inadvertently bring infested foods into their homes.
Are you wondering how to get rid of pantry pests? Seeking assistance from a professional pest exterminator is typically the most effective way to eliminate these undesirable pests successfully. A Houston pest control company maintains a qualified staff that understands how to get rid of pantry pest moths, pantry pest larvae, and other unwanted creatures.
The Types Of Pests That Commonly Invade Stored Food In Pantries
Many different types of creatures will infiltrate bags or boxes of stored foods. Among the most common types of pantry pests include:
- Cigarette beetles: Aptly named for infesting dried tobacco, cigarette beetles typically have an oval body in shades of red or brown. In the larval stage, these pests appear white and worm-like.
- Confused flour beetles: The oval body of a confused flour beetle is shiny and reddish-brown with wings and antennae.
- Drug store beetles: Known for traditionally invading pharmacies, drug store beetles usually measure 1/10 of an inch and appear either dark red or brown.
- Indian meal moths: Known for having wings with a light-colored front and darker back, Indian meal moths pass through a caterpillar stage before reaching adulthood.
In general, pantry pests will contaminate more food than they consume as they lay eggs and generate excrement within these materials.
The Many Ways Pantry Pest Infestations Can Be Problematic
Most people see pantry pests as a nuisance—not a direct danger to humans. These unwanted pests often infiltrate businesses that produce, store, or transport food and also plague local homeowners by contaminating sources of food. Many of these creatures generate eggs within stored foods, which soon hatch and begin developing through phases that culminate with adulthood.
Simple Ways To Prevent Pantry Pests From Getting Into Your Cupboards
How did you get pantry pests? Bright outdoor lighting may attract certain types of moths and beetles that exist in the natural outdoor environment near a home; therefore, consider transitioning to yellowish LED-style bulbs that emit wavelengths that many pests cannot see. These pests sometimes enter homes through damaged window screens or gaps around doors.
Avoid purchasing dry foods in bulk and always inspect food packaging for any signs of damage. Transfer dry foods and pet food into sealed containers before placing them in cupboards or pantries.
The Key To Getting Rid Of A Pantry Pest Problem In Your Home
Many local home improvement retailers sell pantry pest control products or pantry pest repellents. Unfortunately, these options often deliver very mediocre results that simply prolong frustration and might contain abrasive chemicals that adversely impact indoor air quality. Contacting a local pest control professional is strongly recommended for safely eliminating pantry pest beetles and other insects.
Did you know that All-Safe Pest & Termite is a family-owned provider of professional pest control services? We assist Houston-area property owners with invaders such as termites, ants, rodents, and many other meddling pests that may pose health risks. Our team uses many of the newest low-toxicity products emerging in the pest control industry that key educators and advocates endorse, including the National Pest Management Association (N.P.M.A.), the Texas Pest Control Association (TCPA), and others.
After contacting our office, we will deploy a trained specialist to your property who will complete a detailed interior and exterior property assessment that involves identifying the type of pest, the extent of the intrusion, and selecting the best available treatment option. Part of our success results from maintaining a commitment to providing high-quality customer service. We look forward to speaking with you.