Quick Answer
Okay, so here's the quick version. If you want your pest control treatment to actually work, you gotta do about 30-60 minutes of prep work. I've been doing this for over 25 years, and the biggest reason treatments fail is because I can't get my product where the bugs are hiding. You need to clean up, especially in the kitchen, and move furniture about a foot away from the walls. This costs you nothing but a little bit of time and elbow grease, but it makes the difference between wasting your money and actually getting rid of the pests.
Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Review the specific instructions provided by your pest control company, as they may vary based on the type of pest and treatment.
Step 2
Walk through your home, room by room, identifying areas of clutter and any furniture that needs to be moved away from walls.
Step 3
Focus on the kitchen and bathrooms: plan to clear all countertops and wipe them down.
Step 4
Check your pantry and counters for any open food items that need to be sealed in airtight containers or placed in the refrigerator.
Step 5
Identify pet food/water bowls, children's toys, and other sensitive items that need to be removed or covered.
Step 6
If the treatment is for bed bugs, prepare for the extensive process of laundering all fabrics and bagging personal items as instructed.
Step 7
Make a list of questions or concern areas (where you've seen the most pests) to discuss with the technician upon their arrival.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
General Pest Control Prep | $0 - $20 (cleaning supplies) | N/A (Rarely offered) | 1-3 hours |
Moving Furniture Away From Walls | $0 | $150 - $400 (if you hire movers) | 30-60 minutes |
Bed Bug Treatment Prep | $20 - $100 (laundry, bags) | $300 - $800+ | 8-16 hours |
Extreme Clutter / Hoarder Clean-out | N/A | $500 - $5,000+ | Days to Weeks |
When to Call a Professional Pest Control
- If you are physically unable to perform the necessary preparation tasks like moving heavy furniture.
- When you require specialized prep for a severe bed bug infestation and cannot manage the extensive laundry and bagging process yourself.
- If you have an extreme clutter or hoarding situation that makes it impossible for a technician to access the treatment areas.
- If you have severe anxiety about chemical safety and prefer to have a professional service handle every aspect of the preparation, including covering and protecting items.
Prevention Tips
- Declutter regularly, especially along baseboards and in corners where pests love to hide.
- Store all food, including pet food, in airtight glass or plastic containers.
- Wipe down kitchen counters and sweep floors daily to remove crumbs and food sources.
- Use caulk to seal cracks and crevices in walls, particularly around pipes under sinks.
- Keep landscaping, bushes, and firewood away from your home's foundation.
- Always follow the specific pre- and post-treatment instructions from your pest control technician.
Frequently Asked Questions
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