How to Protect Your Home from Pests During and After Cleaning: 15 Proven Strategies for a Pest-Free Space
When was the last time you thought about pest control while deep cleaning your home? Probably never—and that’s a problem. According to the National Pest Management Association, over 60% of homeowners encounter pest infestations shortly after seasonal or deep cleaning. This happens because many don’t realize how to protect your home from pests during and after cleaning, leading to pest-friendly environments just as you’re trying to improve cleanliness.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn actionable, science-backed methods for ensuring your home stays pest-free before, during, and long after your cleaning sessions. Whether you’re doing a seasonal overhaul, move-out scrub, or routine cleanup, these insights will help you avoid costly infestations and protect your family’s health. Plus, we’ll highlight trusted solutions from Bruna’s Cleaning Service, a professional provider in Delaware known for integrating residential pest control strategies into routine home care.
If you want your home to stay clean and pest-free all year round, keep reading. Then, contact our team at Bruna’s Cleaning Service to schedule your customized cleaning plan.
Why Cleaning Isn’t Always Enough to Keep Pests Away
While cleaning removes food crumbs, spills, and grime, it doesn’t automatically address entry points, moisture sources, or hidden nesting zones. In fact, deep cleaning can disturb pests, driving them into new hiding spots. That’s why understanding how to protect your home from pests during and after cleaning requires a combination of smart cleaning practices and proactive pest prevention.
Hidden Pest Risks Created by Cleaning
Some of the most common pest-friendly environments created during cleaning include:
- Moisture left under sinks or toilets after scrubbing
- Food debris swept under heavy appliances but not vacuumed
- Moving clutter, which exposes dark, undisturbed areas
- Vacuuming pests from one location to another without disposing of the bag properly
To solve these issues, homeowners must combine thorough cleaning with residential pest control strategies like sealing entryways, using repellents, and scheduling professional inspections.
1. Inspect and Seal Before You Clean
One of the first steps in learning how to protect your home from pests during and after cleaning is to inspect your home for entry points. Pests like ants, cockroaches, and mice can squeeze through cracks as small as 1/16 of an inch.
Action Steps:
- Use caulk to seal baseboard gaps
- Repair damaged window screens
- Install weather stripping under doors
This simple inspection can block dozens of pest entry points in a single afternoon.
2. Choose Natural Pest-Repelling Cleaners
Some essential oils and natural substances double as effective cleaning agents and pest deterrents. Bruna’s Cleaning Service uses eco-safe products that are effective against grime and common pests.
Top pest-repelling cleaners:
- Vinegar (repels ants and fruit flies)
- Lemon juice (discourages spiders)
- Peppermint oil (strong deterrent for rodents and roaches)
Check out our deep cleaning services for eco-conscious, pet-safe options.
3. Clean Strategically from Top to Bottom
Cleaning from high to low helps prevent dislodged pests or debris from contaminating cleaned areas. Start with ceiling fans and shelves, then move to countertops, and finish with floors.
Tip: Always vacuum last and dispose of the bag or empty the canister immediately to prevent reinfestation.
4. Never Leave Standing Water
Pests need water to survive. Even small amounts of leftover cleaning solution or mop water can attract roaches and silverfish.
Always:
- Wipe dry bathroom floors
- Check for leaks under sinks
- Use a dehumidifier in basements and laundry rooms
This is a key step in residential pest control strategies used by professional services.
5. Use Airtight Containers for All Food
Even during a short cleaning session, food left exposed invites ants, rodents, and beetles. Always store:
- Dry goods like rice, flour, and oats in glass or plastic sealed jars
- Pet food in lidded containers
- Fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator when possible
Pest-prevention isn’t about removing food—it’s about removing access.
6. Clean Behind and Under Appliances
Appliances like stoves and refrigerators often hide crumbs, spills, and moisture. These become hotspots for ants, roaches, and rodents.
Make sure to:
- Move appliances during deep cleaning
- Sweep and mop behind them
- Sanitize floors and cords with vinegar-based solution
Our move-in/move-out cleaning service includes this often-neglected step.
7. Dispose of Garbage Immediately After Cleaning
The cleaning process generates a lot of waste—dust, crumbs, packaging, and more. Leaving trash inside overnight is a major pest attractant.
Steps to take:
- Use double-sealed trash bags
- Take garbage outside the same day
- Clean trash bins weekly with bleach or vinegar
Looking for a recurring cleaning solution? Check our regular cleaning plans.
8. Vacuum Pest Hotspots Regularly
Vacuuming is essential for removing food particles, insect eggs, and dust mites. Focus especially on:
- Baseboards and corners
- Window sills
- Upholstery and rugs
Bruna’s Cleaning Service recommends vacuuming twice a week if you live in high-humidity areas or near wooded spaces in Delaware.
9. Declutter to Eliminate Nesting Spaces
Stacked cardboard, newspapers, and boxes create ideal homes for silverfish, spiders, and roaches.
Decluttering Tips:
- Recycle or discard unused packaging
- Switch to plastic storage bins
- Avoid storing items under the bed
Decluttering is an essential part of our seasonal cleaning programs.
10. Don’t Forget the Garage, Attic, and Basement
These low-traffic areas are prime pest zones. Use the same cleaning and sealing techniques outlined above.
Professional cleaners like Bruna’s Cleaning Service can handle hard-to-reach areas and larger spaces with industrial-grade equipment.
11. Inspect Pet Areas and Bedding
Pet food bowls, chew toys, and bedding can all attract pests if not cleaned regularly.
Cleaning Checklist:
- Wash pet bedding weekly
- Store food in sealed containers
- Wipe feeding areas daily
12. Schedule Preventive Cleaning and Pest Checks
One of the best ways to master how to protect your home from pests during and after cleaning is to work with a professional team that combines cleaning with pest-prevention awareness.
Bruna’s Cleaning Service offers personalized packages to fit your needs and home type. Contact us here.
13. Educate Your Family and Set Cleaning Routines
Prevention is a team effort. Involve your family in regular tasks like:
- Checking for food spills
- Sealing pantry items
- Clearing drains
Building daily habits supports long-term pest control.
14. Use Exterior Barriers for Added Protection
To further strengthen your home’s defenses:
- Trim back shrubs and trees
- Install mesh screens on vents
- Use gravel or stone instead of mulch near the foundation
These are expert-level residential pest control strategies that stop pests before they even get indoors.
15. Monitor After Cleaning with Traps and Baits
After deep cleaning, monitor pest activity using:
- Sticky traps under sinks and behind appliances
- Ant baits near baseboards
- Motion sensors in dark areas
This allows early detection and timely action.
What Clients Say About Our Services
“After switching to Bruna’s, we’ve had zero pest issues in over 6 months. Their cleaning is top-notch, and they always educate us on what to look for between visits.” – Michelle R., Wilmington DE
“We booked their post-construction cleaning service and were impressed by how thorough they were. No pests, no dust, just a fresh start.” – Mark T., Bear DE
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to protect your home from pests during and after cleaning is essential for maintaining a safe, comfortable, and healthy environment. By combining smart cleaning routines with strategic pest control, you can safeguard your space year-round.
If you’re in Delaware, Pennsylvania, or New Jersey, Bruna’s Cleaning Service is your partner in maintaining a pristine, pest-free home. Whether you need a one-time cleanup or recurring service, we have you covered.
📍 300 Cassidy Drive, Suite #305, Newport, DE, 19804
📞 Call: 302-500-9137
✉️ Email: info@brunascleaningservice.com
Visit our homepage or explore all services to get started.
