5 Unexpected Kitchen Spots You Need to Clean to Keep Pests Away

Have you ever wondered why pests keep showing up in your kitchen despite your best cleaning efforts? The truth is, there are hidden spots in your kitchen that might be inviting these unwelcome guests.

Discover the five unexpected kitchen areas you must clean to keep pests away. Paying attention to these five areas is the only way to ensure your kitchen stays clean and pest-free.

Behind the Toaster: A Pest’s Paradise

toaster with crumbs can attract pests

You might not think about the crumbs behind your toaster, but pests sure do. If not cleaned regularly, this area can become a buffet for unwanted guests.

  • Crumb Magnet: Crumbs and food particles can accumulate quickly behind and under the toaster, attracting pests like ants and cockroaches.
  • Warm Haven: The warmth of the toaster can create a cozy environment for pests to thrive.
  • Wipe Down: Regularly move and clean behind the toaster to prevent a buildup of food particles.

The Forgotten Appliances

dirty appliances attract pests

Out of sight, out of mind often applies to all kitchen appliances. These items can collect greasy fingerprints and food particles, providing a perfect meal for pests, especially cockroaches.

What do roaches love to eat?

Learn more about cockroaches’ favorite foods.

  • Greasy treat: Grease can accumulate on appliances, creating a perfect food source for pests.
  • Roach Attraction: Roaches can live off of oily/sticky fingerprints. Therefore, wiping down all appliances, kitchen cabinets, and countertops is essential, especially with kids in the house.
  • Regular Maintenance: Make it a habit to clean the tops, sides, and bottoms of all appliances at least twice a month.

Inside the Spice Rack

old spice jars can attract pests

Spices might be dry, but they can still attract pests, especially if they are stored improperly, get old, or have spills around them. While some spices and essential oils can repel bugs, some attract them!

  • Tiny Invaders: Small pests, such as pantry moths and weevils, can infest spice jars if they are not appropriately sealed.
  • Spice Spills: Spices that spill and are left uncleaned can attract pests.
  • Check Expiry Dates: Regularly check and clean your spice rack, discarding any old or expired spices.

Behind the Refrigerator

check behind the refrigerator for crumbs

The area behind your refrigerator can be a hidden pest hotspot. It’s warm and dark, and it can collect crumbs and spills.

  • Crumb Collector: Crumbs and food debris can easily fall and accumulate behind the fridge.

  • Warm and Cozy: The warmth from the refrigerator motor can attract pests.
  • Regular Cleaning: Pull out the refrigerator and clean behind it at least twice a year.

The Pantry Corners

keep all pantry items in air-tight containers

Pantry corners often go unnoticed during regular cleaning, but they can harbor old food and attract pests like flour beetles. It’s important to keep all food items in air-tight containers!

Learn more about what bugs like flour here.

Weevils like pancake mix!

  • Forgotten Food: Old grains and food items can accumulate in pantry corners, becoming a food source for pests like flour beetles.
  • Flour Beetle Fact: Flour beetles can feed on old grains and food particles. Cleaning out cupboards and getting rid of old flour and crackers is essential.
  • Corner Sweep: Make sure to clean the corners of your pantry regularly to prevent pest infestations.