If you have a problem with bugs or rodents in your home, calling a pest control professional is only the first step to deal with the issue. Once your exterminator has come and gone, you need to make sure your tiny invaders won't be coming back, and that your home is safe and comfortable for you to inhabit. To keep your home pest-free—and free of any excess pesticide—follow these tips.

1. Listen to Your Exterminator

When your pest control company visits, they'll leave you with directions for your own safety and future pest management. These recommendations will be tailored to your situation, so make sure to follow them for lasting results.

2. Clean Thoroughly

After the recommended time has passed, any hard surface in food areas that have been exposed to treatment need to be cleaned and relined before coming into contact with food, eating utensils, bedding or clothing. You'll also need to launder any clothes and linens that have been exposed to the pesticide.  If your home is treated for fleas, you will need to vacuum often and dispose of the bag outside of the house, in order to remove lingering carcasses and eggs. Don’t forget to clean your animals often and have them treated for fleas by your veterinarian.

3. Seal Entry Points

Once you've removed pests from inside your home, you need to prevent the ones outside from getting in. Seal up any potential entryways, including gaps under doors, poorly fitted window screens and cracks in your walls and/or foundation.

4. Declutter

Mess and clutter provide hiding and breeding spots for pests of all kinds. To reduce their foothold in your home, start clearing out rooms and closets. When everything is tidy and you've cut down on unnecessary items, your home will be less welcoming to bugs and rodents.

By taking steps to clean and treat your home, you can get rid of any infestation. If you're dealing with pests, call your local exterminator today—and start planning for what you'll do after they’re gone.

If your home is infested with termites, cockroaches, bedbugs, or any other pest, call Cox Termite & Pest Control. Based in Savannah, GA, they offer quick, convenient pest control services to restore and protect your home. To schedule a visit, call (912) 236-2503 or contact them online.