Tips for Getting Rid of Pantry Pests
When reaching for your favorite snack, the last thing you want is to encounter a creepy, crawly pest hidden in your cabinets. Pantry pests can infest stored food, leading to wasted groceries and a lot of frustration. Thankfully, with a little know-how, you can eliminate these unwanted guests and keep them from returning.
Following the tips in this blog post, you can learn how to remove pantry pests and maintain a pest-free kitchen.
Types of Pests That Commonly Infiltrate Pantries
There are several different types of pests that commonly infest pantry spaces, the most common being:
- Flour beetles: Found in flour, cereal, and dry mixes, these beetles can quickly multiply and contaminate large quantities of food.
- Indian meal moths: These small moths are known for infesting grains, cereals, and nuts. Their larvae spin webs and leave behind a sticky residue in food containers.
- Weevils: These pests commonly infest rice, grains, and pasta, laying eggs inside the food itself.
- Cigarette beetles and drugstore beetles: These beetles feed on spices, dried fruits, and even pet food, making them frequent pantry invaders.
- Grain mites: These tiny pests thrive in humid conditions and infest grains, cereals, and dried fruits.
What Attracts Pests to Pantries?
Pests are drawn to pantries because they provide an ideal environment for feeding and breeding. Warm, dark spaces filled with easily accessible food sources are irresistible to pests. Improperly sealed containers, spilled food, and unclean surfaces amplify the problem by creating easy opportunities for pests to thrive.
How To Get Rid of Pantry Pests
If you’ve spotted pests in your pantry, it’s important to act quickly to prevent food loss and avoid recurrent visits. Follow the steps below to eliminate them effectively:
Clear the Space
The first step in dealing with a possible infestation is to remove everything from your pantry. Carefully inspect each item and discard anything that’s infested or suspicious. Be sure to seal infested items in plastic bags before disposing of them to prevent pests from spreading.
Repel With Smells
Certain scents are natural pest deterrents, and applying them to your pantry can help keep them at bay. Wiping down shelves with white vinegar can repel most pantry pests. For an added layer of protection, consider placing bay leaves or cinnamon sticks in your cabinets, as these aromas act as natural repellents and help keep pests away.
Clean the Area
Thoroughly clean your pantry to remove any traces of pests. Use a vacuum to suck up crumbs, webbing, or insect carcasses from shelves and corners. Then, wipe all surfaces with a mixture of soap and water, followed by a disinfectant spray. Pay special attention to cracks and crevices where pests might hide.
Block Entry Points
Seal entry points to prevent pests from returning. Use airtight containers for all food items, especially grains, cereals, and spices. Replace damaged packaging with sturdy, pest-proof containers made of glass, metal, or heavy-duty plastic. Check for gaps in pantry doors or walls and seal them with caulk or weather stripping to keep pests out.
Trust Home Paramount Pest Control for Professional Pest Removal
While DIY measures may be effective for minor infestations, severe cases require a professional touch. That’s where Home Paramount Pest Control comes in. Our team of pest control experts is equipped to handle even the most pervasive pantry pests, ensuring your home remains pest-free. Using environmentally friendly pest control methods, we are able to control the infestation without using harmful chemicals that can compromise the safety of your indoor environment.
Don’t let unwanted guests invade your space! Reach out to our team to schedule a free pest inspection today.


Why Choose Us?
Providing Reliable Pest & Wildlife Solutions Since 1939
At Home Paramount Pest Control, we have been dedicated to delivering reliable pest and wildlife management solutions for over 85 years. Our long-standing presence in the industry speaks volumes about our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. When you trust our team, you can always count on:
- Customized solutions to suit your specific needs
- Same-day service availability for pest infestation emergencies
- High-quality green products that are safe for the environment
- Complimentary pest inspections
- Affordable financing solutions tailored to your budget
Call us at 888-888-4663 to get started with a free pest inspection for your property today!
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