A pest expert from ThermoPest has shared their top cleaning hacks to incorporate into your autumn home refresh, to ensure your space remains spider-free this winter
The beginning of autumn is a great time to reorganise your physical space, and that includes a thorough closet and house clean.
Beyond being therapeutic, reorganising your home can be a great way to ensure you’re doing everything you can to keep pests at bay. As spiders and critters seek shelter from the cold weather, it’s important to ensure your home is unappealing to pests. That includes making it as clean and tidy as possible.
According to James Rhoades, pest expert at ThermoPest, there are a few simple cleaning hacks you can incorporate into your regular routine to keep critters away this autumn.
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Vacuum regularly
Deep and frequent vacuuming is one of the most effective ways to get rid of pests like carpet moths. Carpet moths are typically found in undisturbed areas such as under furniture, behind curtains, and in corners of rooms.
That said, take special care to vacuum these low-traffic spots where lint, pet hair, and fibres often accumulate. Also be sure to empty your vacuum immediately.
Special focus on sleep spaces
As many Brits turn over their bedding for cosier furnishings in autumn, this is a great time to deep clean and protect against bedbugs and other critters.
Begin by stripping your bed and washing all bedding in hot water. Check your mattress and bed frame for any signs of pests, including dark spots, shed shells or bite marks.
Flipping your mattress and vacuuming in typically neglected corners can help disrupt pest life cycles and keep your bedroom fresh and hygienic.
Refresh your wardrobe
Cleaning out your wardrobe can actually help protect against pests. The back of drawers and bottom of your closet make for good hiding spots for moths, as they are often left undisturbed for long periods of time.
As part of your decluttering process, be sure to wash any items that have not been worn in a while and give items a hard shake before putting them away.
Getting rid of excess clothes and making more room in your wardrobe also allows for greater airflow and fewer dark corners for pests to make a home.
Clean pet bedding and toys
Pets can often bring fleas indoors without homeowners realising. Their sleeping areas and toys are common hotbeds for infestations, especially if they are infrequently cleaned.
Include pet items in your autumn declutter by washing their bedding on high heat and scrubbing any hard toys. This will reduce the risk of pests spreading around your home.