You’ve taken the important step of calling in professional pest control to eliminate unwanted critters from your home. Now that the exterminator has done their job, it’s time to get your hands dirty with the post-treatment cleaning.
This step helps maximize the effectiveness of the treatment and discourages future infestations, making it a must for your household. However, cleaning after pest control requires a specific approach to avoid washing away the applied pesticides or risking a reaction with cleaning chemicals.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure a thorough and safe post-pest control clean up.
Pre-Cleaning To-Do List
Stay on the safe side and take any precautions necessary. Here’s what you need to do:
Consult Your Exterminator
Always ask your exterminator for specific cleaning instructions related to the type of pest treated and the chemicals used. They’ll advise on waiting times for different cleaning tasks and any areas requiring extra attention.
Gather Supplies
Stock up on cleaning essentials like microfiber cloths, sponges, mops, a vacuum cleaner with disposable bags, and appropriate cleaning solutions. Use natural cleaning products like vinegar and water or a mild dish soap solution for surfaces not directly treated with pesticides.
Protect Yourself
Wear gloves, long sleeves, and a mask (if recommended by your exterminator) while cleaning areas potentially exposed to pesticides. Open windows and doors for proper ventilation.
Waiting Periods
Light Cleaning (24-48 Hours)
After the initial drying period specified by your exterminator (usually 24-48 hours), you can do some light cleaning tasks like wiping down countertops, cupboard exteriors, and appliance surfaces with a damp cloth.
Deep Cleaning (Weeks 1-2)
Don’t mop floors, scrub walls, or deep clean carpets until after a week or two. This allows the pesticides time to adhere and do their job.
Heavy-Duty Cleaning (4-6 Weeks)
For a thorough clean that includes mopping floors, steam cleaning carpets, and scrubbing walls, wait at least 4-6 weeks. This ensures the residual pesticides have had ample time to eliminate pests and their eggs.
Cleaning by Area
Here’s a breakdown of how to clean specific areas of your home:
Kitchen
Food Elimination
Eliminate any potential food sources that might attract pests. This includes:
- Cleaning up Crumbs and Spills – Don’t leave crumbs or spills lingering on countertops, floors, or appliances.
- Storing Food Properly – Store all food items in airtight containers, including dry goods like grains and cereals. This prevents pests from accessing food sources and establishing a foothold in your kitchen.
- Emptying Trash Regularly – Overflowing trash cans can become a haven for pests. Empty them regularly and ensure the bin itself is clean and free of food debris.
Focus on Surfaces
Wipe down all kitchen surfaces with a damp cloth. Pay particular attention to areas around the sink, stovetop, and garbage disposal, where pests often congregate due to moisture and potential food scraps.
- Countertops and Appliances – Use a disinfectant wipe or a solution of warm water and dish soap for a thorough clean.
- Cabinets (Exterior) – Wipe down the exterior surfaces of cabinets with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.
- Backsplashes – Clean backsplashes with a damp cloth or a suitable cleaning solution depending on the material (e.g., tile cleaner for ceramic backsplashes).
Don’t Forget the Floor
Sweep or vacuum the kitchen floor thoroughly, paying close attention to corners, baseboards, and under appliances. These areas are common hiding spots for pests and their eggs.
Living Areas
Vacuum Extensively
Vacuuming removes dead pests, eggs, and debris that might attract other insects. Here’s what to target:
- Carpets and Rugs – Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly, paying close attention to high-traffic areas and edges.
- Furniture Upholstery – Don’t forget to vacuum furniture upholstery, especially along seams and cushions, where pests might hide.
- Baseboards – Use the crevice tool attachment on your vacuum to clean along baseboards, a prime hiding spot for pests.
Steam Clean
For carpeted areas with heavy infestations or if you’re dealing with pests like fleas, consider professional steam cleaning after the recommended waiting period from your exterminator. Steam cleaning can kill remaining pests and eggs at high temperatures.
Declutter and Dust
A cluttered environment provides hiding spots for pests. Declutter your living areas by removing unnecessary items and storing them in sealed containers. Use a damp cloth to remove dust from shelves, furniture, electronics, and other surfaces. Dusting helps eliminate potential allergens and discourages pests that might thrive in dusty environments.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms
Wash Bedding and Linens
Wash bedsheets, pillowcases, and any throws in hot water (according to care instructions) to eliminate any potential pests or allergens.
Mattress Inspection
While washing bedding, inspect your mattress for signs of pests, especially along seams and edges. If you find evidence of pests, consider professional mattress cleaning or steaming after consulting with your exterminator.
Focus on Moisture-Prone Areas
Bathrooms can be attractive to pests due to moisture. Here’s what to do:
- Clean and Disinfect – Clean and disinfect surfaces around sinks, bathtubs, and showers. Pay attention to areas where water might accumulate, such as behind the toilet and under the sink.
- Address Leaks – Repair any leaky faucets or pipes promptly. Standing water attracts pests and creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
- Moisture Control – Improve ventilation in your bathroom by using exhaust fans and keeping shower doors open after showering to prevent moisture buildup.
General Tips
Work from Top to Bottom
Start cleaning high surfaces like cabinets and shelves, then work your way down to floors to avoid spreading dust or debris that might contain pests or eggs.
Dispose of Waste Properly
Seal tightly and dispose of garbage bags containing dead pests or vacuum cleaner bags immediately after cleaning.
Maintain a Clean Home
Regular cleaning and clutter reduction are key to preventing future infestations. Wipe down surfaces regularly, store food properly, and address any leaks or moisture issues promptly.
Hiring Professional Cleaners for a Post-Pest Control Deep Clean
While doing the post-pest control clean yourself is certainly achievable, there are significant advantages to hiring professional cleaning services:
Expertise and Efficiency
Professional cleaners possess the knowledge and experience to handle post-pest control cleaning effectively. They understand the importance of following specific cleaning protocols and waiting periods that ensure the pest control treatment takes and does its job.
Thorough Deep Clean
Professional technicians will perform a meticulous deep clean, reaching areas you might miss during a DIY cleaning session. They’ll pay close attention to corners, crevices, and baseboards, which are common hiding spots for pests.
Safe Handling of Chemicals
Professional cleaners are trained in safe handling procedures for cleaning products and can ensure the proper disposal of waste that potentially contains dead pests.
Time-Saving Convenience
Cleaning after pest control can be a time-consuming task. Hiring professional cleaning services frees up your valuable time and allows you to focus on other priorities.
Peace of Mind
Knowing your home is receiving a professional deep clean, you can rest assured that your environment is thoroughly sanitized and less susceptible to future infestations.
By following these tips and consulting your exterminator, you can make sure you do a thorough and safe job of post-pest control cleaning.
For a stress-free and effective deep clean, call Alphamaids at 305-588-1226. We’ll help restore your home to a sparkling and pest-