Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter, but it can also be a prime opportunity for unwanted pests, like roaches, to hitch a ride. At BR Moving, we want to ensure your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible, including preventing roaches from making the journey with you. This guide will provide practical tips, from cleaning and packing to knowing when to call in professional help.
Inspect and Clean Before You Pack
Before you start packing, it's essential to identify potential hiding spots for roaches. These pests love warmth, so check behind large appliances, inside cabinets, and even wall décor. Common areas to inspect include baseboards, utility pipes, crawlspaces, and electronics. Catching any signs of infestation early can prevent roaches from moving into your new home.
Once you’ve located any hiding spots, the next step is a deep clean. Pay extra attention to the kitchen, where food and moisture attract roaches. Clean out cabinets, wipe down surfaces, and make sure no crumbs are left behind. Also, check under the sink and around any appliances that may be a food or water source for the roaches.
Strategic Packing: A Roach-Free Move
When packing, the goal is to keep your belongings as secure as possible. Start by washing clothes, linens, and anything fabric-related. Roaches can cling to fabric, so pack these items in sealed plastic bags or containers to prevent unwanted pests from hitching a ride.
Pet owners should clean food bowls and transfer any open bags of pet food into airtight containers. They should also choose sealed plastic containers over cardboard boxes. Cardboard boxes are ideal hiding places for roaches because their glue attracts them and provides a food source. Using plastic containers keeps your belongings safe and offers extra security against pests.
Here’s a handy checklist to help you pack with roach prevention in mind: Wash clothes and linens thoroughly, then store them in sealed plastic bags or containers. For kitchen appliances, deep clean, inspect for cockroach eggs, and pack them in sealed bags. Seal electronics in plastic bags or wrap them individually. Vacuum and clean furniture thoroughly, then wrap it in plastic. Transfer pet food to airtight containers and clean pet carriers. Finally, inspect the soil of indoor plants, wash the pots, and consider using plastic alternatives for packaging.
When to Call in the Professionals
If you find that the roach situation is more than you can handle, it’s time to bring in the experts. Pest control professionals can help tackle an infestation you may have missed, making your move much smoother. For peace of mind, consider treating your new home before moving in. This way, you’re starting fresh without the risk of pests. German cockroaches, in particular, are known for their resilience, so professional pest control is crucial to ensure you’re not dealing with a long-term problem.
Unpacking and Preventing Roaches in Your New Home
Once you arrive at your new home, keep roaches at bay with a few extra steps. Set up glue boards or sticky traps around entry points to catch potential intruders. Check them regularly and deal with any signs of roaches right away.
Don’t bring your boxes directly into your new home. Instead, keep them outside and unpack one at a time, carefully inspecting for roaches or egg cases. If possible, leave the wrapped items outside in direct sunlight. The heat can kill insects and their eggs, offering an extra layer of protection. Even after professional pest control, consider scheduling a second inspection to ensure the issue is fully resolved. Focus on common hiding places like baseboards, around windows, and near entry points.
Moving doesn’t have to be stressful — and with a little planning, you can avoid the headache of dealing with roaches. Taking the right precautions during packing, moving, and unpacking can ensure a smooth and pest-free transition into your new home. At BR Moving, we’re here to help make your move as easy as possible. Follow these steps to prevent pests from moving with you, and enjoy your new home without the worry of unwanted guests.
