Tips for Keeping Pests Out of Your Apartment
Apartment living is great because you don’t have to worry about home and yard maintenance, and you have a built-in network of neighbors. However, one of the drawbacks is that living in close proximity to others means that you are more vulnerable to pests such as roaches, bedbugs, flies, and rodents. Even if you are fastidious about keeping your apartment clean, you are not immune to exposure to these types of pests. It’s easy to blame other residents, but the truth is … that anybody can bring pests into the apartment building. Insects, such as cockroaches, will travel wherever they can find food and water. They can enter your apartment building through the doors, windows, and HVAC system, and can also sneak in when you carry in grocery bags or other packages. Pests can also cling to your clothes without you even knowing.
If you find insects or rodents in your apartment, the first thing you should do is notify the property manager to dispatch an exterminator to the site. You can also try DIY pest eradication products such as sprays, traps, and powders. In addition, there are steps you can take to keep your apartment as pest-free as possible.
Examine Thrift Store Furniture
It’s great when you can find a bargain at a thrift store or estate sale. However, before you purchase it or bring it into your apartment, you’ll need to carefully inspect the item. Look through the upholstery and seams to make sure that no “critters” are hanging out just waiting to make a new home. The same goes for other household items and even used clothing. If you notice any signs of existing or previous pest infestation, it’s better to leave the “bargain” behind.
Check Packages
Pests love to hang out in cardboard boxes and paper grocery bags. Carefully inspect all packaging before bringing it into your apartment.
Avoid Travel “Souvenirs”
Hotels are notorious for harboring bedbugs, but you can also find them in public transportation, movie theatres, and other venues. Thoroughly clean all the clothes that you took on your trip, as well as clean and vacuum your suitcases.
Here are some other general housekeeping tips to prevent pest infestation in your apartment:
- Promptly dispose of garbage
- Keep the kitchen counters and floors clean and swept
- Seal all dry goods and pet food in sealed plastic containers
- Regularly check under the sinks and appliances for damp spots or leaks
- Vacuum regularly if you have carpeting
By following good housekeeping practices and being cautious, you can play your part in keeping pests out of your apartment. However, if the problem persists, you will need to bring it to the attention of your apartment manager, so a professional exterminator can remediate the situation.
Explore a Vision Community Apartment
At Vision Communities, our goal is to provide an excellent living experience in a community you’ll love coming home to and with our onsite property management, you’ll love living in a Vision Community! Our spacious studio, 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom, and 3 bedroom apartment layouts provide cozy space. Check out our luxurious apartment floorplans in one of our communities and enjoy life at the VC.
Schedule a tour today and see why Vision Communities is a great place to live.