Wherever there’s food, there’s a high chance that there will be pests, too. Do you have a pest problem in your home or business? Do you know how to keep them away from your food?

Sometimes, pest control won’t get rid of every single pest in your home or business. If you are currently dealing with a pest problem in your house or place of business, you must know how to protect your food from contamination. After all, food is the main target of many pests, and failing to protect your stores can lead to more serious problems.

You won’t have trouble finding a pest control service in New England. However, as your house or establishment is getting treated, here’s how you can keep your food stores safe:

1. Use pest-proof storage containers

Losing your food to pests is always frustrating. If you want to keep your food safe from mice, roaches, and other creepy crawlies looking for a bite to eat at your expense, use pest-proof containers. Keep food stores in sturdy and sealed containers such as plastic boxes and mason jars. Avoid leaving food stores in sacks, plastic bags, and any other packaging that pests can easily bite through. Even if you are storing them in a pantry, there’s still a chance of pests getting into them.

2. Don’t leave food hanging around

If you’re dealing with a pest problem, don’t make the issue worse by leaving food out in the open. Make sure that your garbage bags are tightly covered, and clean up any spills as soon as possible. Clean your kitchen regularly, too. Sweep the floor to remove crumbs, don’t leave dishes in the sink, and take out the trash to keep pests at bay.

3. Inspect your food

Look through your pantry for any food that pests might have gotten into. Sometimes, you might not be aware that a sack of sugar or a package of chips is already open at the back of the shelf. Discard contaminated food right away to avoid attracting other pests to them. Pay attention to the foods that pests as well, such as seeds, rice, grains, nuts, cereals, and other similar foods.

4. Store pet food correctly

Pet food can also attract pests like rats, squirrels, and raccoons. Store pet food in a large plastic bin instead of leaving it in the sack. If possible, store it away from the main house, like in the garage or the shed.

5. Buy only what you need

Overstocking your pantry can have you running out of places to store your food. If you don’t store your food in the proper containers, pests might get to it before you can eat it. Thus, buy only what you can store safely in your pantry.

6. Keep food stores dry

Moisture can attract certain pests, too, so keep your food storage areas dry. If you have a moisture problem in the house, have it professionally inspected right away.

Dealing with a pest problem is stressful. Don’t make it worse by leaving your food stores vulnerable. If you have pests in the house, these pointers can help you keep your food safe from contamination and waste.