Computer bugs are one thing, but other kinds of bugs in the office are quite another!
It’s hard to get any work done when you’re swatting the fruit flies that frequently crop up in the workplace. Most of the time, fruit flies come from a common break room or kitchen, but sometimes your habits with food at your desk may be to blame.
One thing is for sure, they didn’t just appear out of nowhere. It’s important to know where they’re hiding and breeding so you can eliminate the source of the problem.
Fruit flies seek unsanitary areas in which to live and breed because those areas have what the flies need to survive: fermenting food and liquids. Fruit flies lay their eggs in any fermenting liquid. This might be found in overripe fruit, spilled sweet liquids such as beer or soda syrup; rotting potatoes, onions or other vegetables; a dirty, wet mop; or scum in a stagnant drain. Fruit flies also breed in or around recycling bins, or in the recycled cans and bottles themselves — and they're not the only pests that could be roaming around your workplace.
How About Your Snack Drawer?
If a mid-afternoon snack is on your daily agenda, you’re at a higher risk of attracting a few extra friends to your desk. We’re not saying that apple or granola bar is a bad habit, but the remnants that sprinkle your desk drawers are quite inviting for pests. That sticky spot on the corner of your desk is particularly convenient for an ant.
If you do choose to snack at your desk, be sure you’re conscious of your crumbs and promptly clean up any spills. Pests love to nibble on your leftovers. Or, try turning your snack time into a five-minute social time in the kitchen. This will help prevent a mess on your desk, and give you a break to mingle. Keeping snacks in sealed containers will also deter any critters.
In the kitchen
You may have successfully discouraged pests from invading your desk, but have you opened the door for a kitchen invasion? Thanks to food and water sources, it’s rather welcoming for pests.
Like your desk, be sure to clean up any spills and take out the garbage on a regular basis. Nothing should be sitting for too long, or it will soon be swarming with pests. Standing water will also entice pests to stay awhile.
In the plants
Speaking of standing water, keep an eye on your plants, too. You might think you’re doing a good deed as you water the fern in the corner or the gerbera daisy in the window, but if there’s standing water left over, it’ll attract pests.
Be sure not to overwater plants, or you could create a pest-friendly environment within your office space. Soon, those bugs will travel throughout your office, giving you and your co-workers a nasty surprise.
In the corners
Fear of the unknown can be intimidating. There’s nothing too scary hiding in your office, but there could be some creatures lurking within your walls or under the carpet. Pests are experts at hiding in cluttered spaces, so be sure you get around to organizing your desk and other areas.
Vacuuming regularly and cleaning your office and desk space can help deter pests. It’s worth the few extra minutes every week if it’s going to save you from squishing yet another ant.
If you’re in the midst of a pest invasion in your office or workplace, or if you’re looking for preventative tips,
Plunkett’s Pest Control can help! We’ve been in the business for over 100 years, and you can trust our experienced
technicians with your pest control needs. Our family-owned and -operated business has your best interests at heart. Contact us today to learn more or
schedule a service!
