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Clean Move, Clean Home: How to Avoid Bringing Pests with You

Roaches, ants, and bed bugs love a good road trip—don’t let them hitchhike to your new home. This guide shares how to inspect, clean, and pack your belongings to avoid relocating pests along with your furniture.

Moving into a new home is exciting — a fresh start, a clean space, and a chance to leave clutter behind. But if you’re not careful, you might bring along unwanted guests: pests.

Roaches, ants, bed bugs, and even spiders love to hide in boxes, furniture, and appliances. The last thing you want is to unpack in your beautiful new home and discover tiny hitchhikers tagging along.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to a pest-free move — how to inspect, clean, and pack your belongings the smart way.

1: Why Are Moves a Magnet for Pests?

Pests love:
→ Cardboard boxes (warm, dark hiding spots)
→ Stored furniture (perfect nesting spots)
→ Appliances (especially if crumbs or moisture are left inside)
→ Storage units or garages (low-traffic pest havens)

Common pests to watch out for when moving:

• Cockroaches

• Ants

• Spiders

• Bed bugs

• Mice

• Silverfish

Pro Tip: If your old home or storage area has had pest problems before — you’ll want to be extra careful.

2: Pre-Packing: Inspect & Clean Everything

Before you pack it → inspect it.

Checklist for pest-proof packing:

1. Inspect Furniture

• Check under cushions, inside drawers, behind fabric folds.

• Look for egg casings, webs, droppings, or live bugs.

2. Clean Appliances Thoroughly

• Wipe down and vacuum inside refrigerators, toasters, microwaves, ovens, and coffee makers.

• Remove any crumbs, grease, or moisture.

3. Vacuum Upholstered Items

• Sofas, chairs, mattresses — vacuum them all slowly and thoroughly, especially seams and folds.

4. Wash Bedding, Curtains, & Soft Items

• Use hot water and high heat drying if possible to kill any pests or eggs hiding in fabrics.

5. Declutter

• Pests love clutter. Moving is the perfect time to toss or donate unused items — especially things that have been in long-term storage.

3: Smart Packing to Keep Pests Out

Packing tips for a pest-free move:

Use Plastic Bins Instead of Cardboard

• Cardboard is a pest magnet. Plastic storage bins with tight-fitting lids are your best defense.

Seal Boxes Tightly

• Use high-quality packing tape to close all seams securely.

Avoid Storing Food or Trash During Packing

• Don’t pack open food, pet food, or trash near items being moved — it attracts pests fast.

Use Scent Deterrents Inside Boxes

• Natural repellents like cedar chips, lavender sachets, or dryer sheets help discourage insects from settling in.

Label & Keep “Clean” Items Separate

• Items already inspected & cleaned should stay away from garage items, outdoor furniture, or anything from attics.

4: Moving Day Pest Prevention

Protect your belongings during loading & transit:

Check Moving Truck or Storage Unit for Signs of Pests

• Look for droppings, spider webs, or dead bugs inside the truck before loading.

Keep Belongings Elevated in Storage or Transit

• Don’t place furniture or boxes directly on warehouse or truck floors if possible.

Cover Mattresses & Furniture with Protective Wrap

• Use mattress bags and plastic covers to prevent exposure to pests or dirt.

Avoid Long-Term Storage in Humid or Untreated Areas

• Pests thrive in dark, humid environments. If storage is unavoidable, ask about pest control measures in place.

5: Unpacking the Smart Way

Don’t just dump boxes and hope for the best.

Inspect Items as You Unpack

• Look again for pests or signs of damage.

Unpack Boxes Quickly

• Don’t let boxes sit unopened for weeks — the longer they sit, the more likely pests will settle in unnoticed.

Vacuum & Wipe Down Items After Moving

• Especially upholstered furniture and rugs.

Clean New Kitchen Cabinets Before Loading Dishes

• Crumbs left by previous owners can attract pests fast.

6: Bonus Move-In Pest Control Tip

Want total peace of mind? Have your new home treated before moving in. A professional pest control service can:

✔️ Inspect for existing pests
✔️ Treat common entry points
✔️ Apply safe, preventative treatments
✔️ Protect your home from day one

7: When to Call a Pest Control Pro

Call a professional if:

• Your previous home or storage area had pest issues

• You spot signs of pests in your moving truck or boxes

• Your new home has visible signs of insects or rodents

• You want a preventive treatment for peace of mind

Final Thoughts: Clean Move, Clean Home

Moving is stressful enough — don’t let pests add to the chaos.

By taking time to inspect, clean, and pack smartly, you can ensure your move stays pest-free. And if you need help? Call in the experts.

Need Trusted Pest Control Before or After You Move?

Visit Helplisted.com to connect with trusted pest control pros in your area who can help ensure your new home starts fresh, clean, and pest-free.

Don’t let pests make themselves at home — take control before you unpack!