The cellars are not always the most welcoming spaces… and if pests decide to settle there, it doesn’t improve matters! But cellars are unfortunately one of pests’ favorite places, particularly because of the humidity and darkness that prevail there. Therefore, it is essential to know the best tips to protect this room against the presence of insects and other rodents. In this article, we will present you with some practical advice to keep your cellar healthy and secure.
Maintaining good hygiene in your cellar
To prevent pests from settling in your basement, you must first and foremost ensure regular maintenance of this room. This involves several simple actions:
- Clean regularly: Get rid of dust and cobwebs, sweep or vacuum the floor and shelves. A clean space is less likely to attract pests.
- Store properly: do not pile up objects on the ground or on unstable shelves. A well-organized basement will allow you to better detect the presence of possible intruders.
- Avoid sources of moisture: make sure to repair any water leaks and regularly ventilate your cellar to limit the appearance of molds and fungi, which can attract certain pests.
- Do not store food: pests are attracted to the presence of foodstuffs. So, avoid storing food in your basement, and if necessary, opt for airtight containers.
Prevent pests from accessing your basement
Once your basement is clean and well organized, it is advisable to implement preventative measures to prevent pest intrusion. Here are some effective solutions:
Fill the gaps and cracks
To prevent pests from entering your cellar, regularly check the walls, floors and ceilings for any cracks and crevices. If you spot any, take the time to seal them with suitable cement or putty, in order not to leave any access for intruders.
Install a Watertight Door
The door of your cellar must be properly adjusted and equipped with seals to prevent pests from passing. To reinforce this barrier, you can also install an automatic door bottom or a sweep seal, which will fill the space between the door and the floor. Pest control will then be easier to perform if needed.
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Use natural repellents
Some natural products are renowned for their ability to repel pests. For example, you can place bay leaves, bags of lavender, or even cloves in various parts of your cellar to keep insects away. Rodents, on the other hand, are sensitive to the smells of essential oils such as peppermint or eucalyptus.
Regularly treat against pests
Despite all these precautions, it is possible that pests still manage to infiltrate your cellar. It is therefore important to regularly treat this room with suitable products.
Choose Suitable Insecticides and Rodenticides
Depending on the type of pest you want to get rid of, there are different solutions on the market. Be sure to choose specific and environmentally friendly insecticides and rodenticides, in order to limit the risks to your health and that of your loved ones.
Hire a specialized company
If despite your efforts, pests persist in your basement, it may be wise to call in a company specializing in pest and rodent control. These professionals will be able to identify the source of the problem and implement effective treatments to get rid of it permanently.
Implement monitoring methods
Finally, to ensure optimal protection of your cellar against pests, it is essential to regularly monitor this room. Here are some tips to quickly detect the presence of intruders:
- Inspect regularly: take the time to check the condition of your cellar at least once a month, examining the corners, shelves and stored objects. Pay particular attention to traces of droppings, gnawing or webs.
- Install traps : to more easily detect the presence of pests, you can install insect or rodent traps in various locations in your basement. Make sure to check them regularly and replace them if necessary.
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- Stay alert: some pests make their presence known before they are seen. Pay attention to suspicious noises, such as scratching or squeaking, which could indicate the presence of rodents in your basement.
By following these tips and tricks, you can effectively protect your cellar from pests and keep a healthy and secure space for your belongings and your family.