How to Get Rid of Pantry Bugs in Tennessee

Pantry bugs refer to the various types of insects and pests commonly found in pantries or kitchen cupboards, feeding on food items and causing damage. In Tennessee, some of the most common pantry bugs include Indian meal moths, pantry beetles (such as saw-toothed grain beetles, cigarette beetles, confused flour beetles, and red flour beetles), weevils (such as rice weevils, maize weevils, and bean weevils), ants, and cockroaches. In this article, we explore the different types of pantry pests and ways to prevent them from ruining your food stores.

Common Types of Pantry Bugs Found in Tennessee

Tennessee residents often encounter various types of pantry bugs that can infest their food supply if not dealt with promptly. It is essential to identify these common pantry pests and implement effective preventative measures to maintain a bug-free pantry.

Pantry Moths

Indian meal moths are the most common pantry moths found in Tennessee. These pests infest food products such as grains, flour, pet food, and dried fruits.

Pantry Beetles

Pantry beetles, including flour beetles, cigarette beetles, and drugstore beetles, are often found in food items like flour, cereal, spices, and dried fruits. They can cause damage to your pantry stock, leaving you with unusable products.

Weevils

Tennessee also deals with weevils, including rice weevils and granary weevils, which infest grains, rice, beans, cereals, and cornmeal. These small insects have a dark brown or black color and can be a frustrating pest to face.

Signs of Pantry Bug Infestation

If you're noticing small flying insects or tiny larvae crawling in your pantry, you may be dealing with a pantry bug infestation in your Tennessee home. Common pantry pests, such as Indian meal moths and pantry beetles, thrive in warm and humid environments and are attracted to various food sources.

Signs of a pantry bug infestation include:

• The presence of flying insects near your food packages
• Silk webbing in corners and crevices of your pantry
• Larvae or cocoon-like structures

How To Get Rid of Bugs in the Pantry

Pantry bug infestations can be a frustrating problem in Tennessee homes. However, there are several effective prevention and control measures that can help keep these pests at bay.

First and foremost, it is crucial to inspect food packages before purchasing or bringing them into your pantry. Look for any signs of damage or tears, as well as tiny holes or webbing, which are telltale signs of pantry pests such as Indian meal moths or grain beetles. If you notice any suspicions, it's best to avoid buying the product altogether.

Storing dry goods in airtight containers is another essential step in preventing pantry bug infestations. These pests can easily chew through cardboard and paper packaging, so transferring items like flour, rice, and cereal to sealed glass or plastic containers will safeguard them from infestation.

Rotating food items is also important. By regularly using older items before opening new ones, you can prevent bugs from making a home in forgotten packages. Additionally, practicing good hygiene in your pantry by regularly cleaning and vacuuming around shelves and boxes will eliminate any crumbs or food particles that may attract pests.

By following these prevention and control measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of pantry bug infestations in your Tennessee home. Inspecting food packages, storing dry goods in airtight containers, rotating food items, and regularly cleaning and vacuuming are all key steps in keeping pantry pests at bay.

Don't Let Bugs Take Over Your Pantry

If you suspect a pantry bug infestation in your Tennessee home, contact Okeena Termite and Pest Control. We have over 62 years of experience dealing with pantry pests. We can provide guidance on the best pantry pest prevention methods and the quickest extermination options to rid your home of these frustrating pests.