Pests can be a real nightmare, and it’s just about the last thing anyone wants for their home. Of course, one of the great things about living in an apartment complex is that so much of the work is taken care of by the property management company. That said, there’s still plenty you can do to make sure you don’t get pests in your apartment. One of the biggest risks of an apartment building is that your neighbors may not be as conscious as you are, and they could bring pests into the building. Make sure you’re not contributing to the risk– read more below to learn how you can keep pests out of your apartment.
Keep Your Kitchen Clean
The kitchen is one of the most inviting areas of your apartment for pests because it provides easy access to food. To reduce the risk, limit the access pests can get to your favorite snacks. Use a trash can with a tight-fitting lid so your food scraps and other garbage aren’t sitting out like an all-you-can-eat buffet for pests. Store food well in airtight containers when possible– it will keep your food fresh as well as reducing your risk of unwanted intruders.
There are other steps you can take to keep your kitchen area clean. Wash your dishes immediately after you use them, or at least give them a good rinse and put them in the dishwasher. Try to keep other food crumbs contained, too, by cleaning appliances and countertops. Rinse your sinks well at the end of the night, then wipe them up so you aren’t providing a water source for pests. Finally, do a deep clean (including mopping) once a week or so to get all the little things you might have missed during daily maintenance.
Check Your Packages Carefully
Unless you live close to an external door, most pests can’t even get to your apartment unless someone brings them in– don’t be that person! Check packages before you bring them inside, especially if you’re having groceries or other high-risk items delivered. If you see suspicious signs, consider opening your package before you bring it indoors.
Watch Out for Moisture Problems
Kitchens and bathrooms are the most common areas for pest problems because both of them have water sources. If you notice standing water in either location, try to wipe it up before it becomes a watering hole for unwanted intruders. If your sink or shower seem to accumulate water even when you’re not using them, it may be time to make a maintenance call before it becomes a problem. The same goes for pipes, windows, or anywhere else that moisture starts to accumulate.
Be Wary of Used Furniture
Like anything else you bring into your apartment, used furniture may offer a free ride to various pests. This is especially true if the furniture seems dirty or has signs of pest activity. If you don’t have complete faith in the source of your furniture, give it a thorough inspection before you bring it inside. The last thing you want is to save a few dollars by bringing an infested couch into your apartment!
Tidy Up
Most people think that their mess is harmless as long as they don’t leave food scraps laying around. Unfortunately, though, pretty much any kind of mess can give pests a place to hide. If you’re constantly ordering packages from Amazon or your other favorite online retailers, dispose of the boxes in a timely manner. A large pile of cardboard boxes might look just like an apartment complex for some pests seeking shelter.
Get rid of unused items because the longer they sit undisturbed, the more time pests have to make themselves at home. If you’re storing clothes under your bed or in the back of a closet, make sure to use airtight containers. You’ll enjoy your home more when it’s tidy, and pests will want nothing to do with it.
What to Do If My Apartment Has Pests
If you’re already having a pest problem, there are a few things you can do to help yourself out. Contacting the management company is a great place to start because they’ll normally do everything in their power to get pests out of their property! If you’re unable to get help from the management, your best bet may be to move away.
Apartments in West Phoenix
Heers Management has a wide selection of different apartment communities in the West Phoenix area. Our buildings are modern, well-appointed with up to date amenities, and near all of your favorite resources in West Phoenix. Contact us today to set up a showing, or check out our floor plans online to find one that’s right for you!