Do I Need To Move Furniture For Pest Control?

Nobody wants to live in a home with pests. So, we spend thousands of dollars trying to get rid of them with pest control services. But how do we prepare for services? And do we need to move the furniture for pest control or not? Here are your answers.

Expect to scoot your furniture away from the walls before the exterminator arrives. Gaps between the furniture and walls can help technicians reach hidden pest colonies. But leaving sofas and tables in place can give pests a place to hide. So, ask your provider for more information about preparing for services.

Fumigation services use harsh chemicals to treat areas in your home for pests. So, you usually have to prepare each space before the exterminator arrives. Prep usually includes removing rugs, moving furniture away from walls, and covering the dishes. However, each service requires different things. So, be sure to talk to your service provider for more information.

In general, expect to get ready at least two hours before the technician arrives. That way, you have plenty of time to address issues and ask questions. Once the treatment is complete, you can return to your home and replace the furniture. But you usually can’t re-enter the area for a few hours because of the toxic fumes.

DID YOU KNOW: It’s your landlord’s responsibility to remove pests from rentals and disclose pest problems to tenants.

Moving your couch for fumigation is crucial because pests can burrow in, on, or around your furniture. That means bugs and rodents stay hidden unless you reveal their hiding spots. And while most fumigators know where to treat, it always helps to remove obstacles from their path.

Keeping your couch against the wall provides a haven for pests. And the exterminator’s chemicals can’t breach those barriers. Plus, the products technicians use can’t soak into most fabrics. So, you have to expose the nooks and crannies around your house and hope that the pests cross the threshold.

NOTE: Most exterminators will provide a checklist to help you prepare for treatment.

Get rid of the dust on your coffee tables and TV stand. That way, you don’t wipe away the treatment product the next time you clean your house. Try to complete this step before the exterminator arrives. Then, avoid dusting for at least seven days.

Your service provider should let you know if other steps are necessary. So, don’t forget to ask for a list. Also, put away food items and beverages before the tech arrives. You don’t want to consume something that’s supposed to kill pests.

Usually, your furniture stays safe during pest extermination. And because experts use products that won’t stain fabrics, you don’t have to worry about ruining the couch. However, you should always discuss these details with your technician first. Some projects might require more potent products that can stain the upholstery.

NOTE: Some pest control treatments can leave behind a residue. So, sweep the treated areas a few days after the technician finishes.

Related Questions

Do I Have to Wash Everything After Fumigation?

You should wipe or wash exposed items after pest control services. That way, you remove leftover chemicals, residue, and dead pest carcasses. Also, open some windows to let fresh air inside the house. Aerated homes are always safer when cleaning with flammable products.

Is It Safe to Be in the House After Pest Control?

Most pest control technicians suggest staying away from your home for about 2-4 hours after treatment. The wait gives products a chance to work and allows critters to interact with the chemicals. However, your wait time depends on the type of services you use. Severe cases may require a longer delay. So, be sure to ask your exterminator for more details.

When Can I Replace My Furniture After Extermination?

You can put your furniture back in its place a few hours after pest control services. But try not to move couches or tables until then. If you scoot furniture around too soon, you could disrupt the treatment and drive pests further into their hiding spots.

How Often Should You Do Best Control?

Have your home treated for pests every three months to keep colonies at bay. But ask your technician for more information because some pest problems require more work than others.