Cleaning up After Termite Removal

Termite removal can be done by fumigation or non-fumigation methods. Both ways are effective and your termite company has the expertise to know which is best for your home. Ask all the questions you want, but leave the decision to them. Whichever way the termite prevention and removal is done, it makes sense to do a thorough cleaning once the job is over. A professional termite removal company will ensure that the house is safe to enter before allowing you back in. Still, it is always a good idea to give the place a top-to-bottom cleaning after the termite company leaves. This serves a twofold purpose – it will remove any residual chemical traces that may have been left behind and it is also an opportunity to give the house that long overdue spring cleaning. Having a spotless termite-free home is a reward in itself.

Don’t Rush It

Ask the termite company for tips on how to go about the cleaning. Expert advice could be invaluable. If the company asks you to wait for a few days before starting, be patient. It could be that the chemicals used need to remain in place for a few days to maximize their effectiveness. That doesn’t mean that your family is not safe in the home- a licensed termite removal company will always ensure your safety.

What You Will Need

No special cleaning equipment is needed. You will require:

• Cleaning rags
• Water and detergent
• Sponges
• Trash bags
• Rubber gloves
• A vacuum cleaner
• A handheld steamer

Plan It Out

A little bit of planning can save time and make the cleaning more effective. Divide the family members who can help into groups. Each group should be given specific tasks to undertake like scrubbing, washing, steaming, etc. Once you know who will be doing what, choose a starting point at one end of the house and work your way from room to room until the whole house has been cleaned. Also, start at the top and work your way down. That means starting in the attic and ending in the basement.

Each area being cleaned should also be from the top down – from ceilings to floors. Once a room has been done, ensure that you dry it off as much as possible. Dampness is a breeding ground for mold and insects.

Vacuum and Steam

Check the carpets and rugs before starting. If they are not too dirty, vacuuming should be fine. However, if there is a lot of ingrained dirt, consider renting a carpet cleaner to get them cleaned. Steam clean the curtains, upholstery and other furnishings.

The Kitchen

Clean all the counters and any utensils, pots, pans,cutlery, etc. that may have been exposed to the termite removal chemicals.

A house that has undergone fumigation, or even a non-fumigation process of termite removal, is safe – a professional termite company will ensure this. Doing a complete clean-up afterward is a matter of abundant precaution and opens the door to enjoy a clean termite-free home. Always use a professional termite removal company and follow their advice.