After already having your home professionally serviced by an exterminator to eliminate pests, the last thing that you want to do is suffer from a repeat infestation. The best way to practice pest control is to take proactive steps to keep them out now: understanding some of the steps that you can take after having your home exterminated can help you ensure that you won't have to go through the process again anytime soon.

Cleaning and Cleanliness

The first thing that you should do after a pest control specialist has completed their treatment of your home (and after the treatment has had time to work) is to do a deep cleaning. Vacuuming the carpets, cleaning the sheets, and scrubbing out-of-the-way areas like underneath the fridge and at the back of your cabinets is the best and only real way to remove any insect corpses which may remain, as well as crumbs and other substances which may attract them again in the future.

Beyond general cleaning, you should also practice good cleanliness habits. In general, this means making sure that food does not sit exposed for an extended period of time – so cleaning the dishes regularly, not letting pet food sit overnight, and taking out the trash are all a good way to eliminate potential food sources which could attract pests in the future.

Reduce Moisture

Though it depends on the particular pest, plenty of insects thrive in an environment that is high in humidity. In order to reduce the hospitality of your home for these pests, you may want to consider installing a number of dehumidifiers throughout your home to reduce the ambient humidity level (this has the added benefit of making mold growth much less likely as well, and can boost your comfort levels in the summer). In a similar vein, you should also keep an eye out for any potential sources of unwanted water, such as condensation or leaks in your plumbing underneath your sink and in your kitchens and bathrooms.

Seal Entranceways

Finally, you should also take a look around your house to determine if there are any potential openings that could provide a way for pests to enter your home. Particular attention should be paid to window and door screens, as well as the weatherstripping around those same windows and doors. Replacements should be installed if there are any gaps that could allow pests in. Particular attention should also be paid to external surfaces: broken siding, roofing, and caulking can all provide ways for pests to get into your home and behind your walls.

For more information or advice, contact a business such as Kettle Moraine Pest Control.