With the start of the new school year, around 494,000 students move to different cities to continue their studies, many of them settling in shared apartments, residences, or college dorms. This phenomenon of student mobility, although exciting, can also bring unwanted “guests” to these new homes, such as cockroaches, ants, bed bugs, and other types of pests.
Rentokil experts warn that in the first weeks of residence, it is crucial to inspect the condition of the property and detect any signs that may indicate the presence of infestations. These pests find shared housing to be a favorable environment for their establishment, especially when there is humidity, food remnants, or hard-to-reach areas where they can hide. Additionally, in older homes, termites and woodworms are latent threats that can go unnoticed.
The first signs of a possible infestation are often subtle. In the kitchen, the presence of small droppings, damaged food remnants, stains, or odors may indicate cockroaches or rodents. Likewise, if blood stains are observed on sheets or dark spots on mattresses, it may be a bed bug problem. In the case of ants, their recurrent presence, especially near the kitchen or windows, may point to a nearby nest or entry point.
Another important consideration is wooden furniture. The detection of small holes, a build-up of dust or sawdust, as well as the fragile touch of certain elements, could be signs of woodworm or termites. “When we arrive at a new home, we often pay attention to cleanliness or the condition of the furniture, but we don’t always notice these small signs that may indicate the presence of a pest. Detecting them early allows us to act before the problem spreads,” comments Luis Calderón, technical director of Rentokil.
Performing daily inspections is a recommended practice. In the kitchen, it is advisable to inspect cabinets, drawers, and appliances, while in bedrooms, it is prudent to check mattresses, bed frames, and headboards. In older homes, checking beams and door frames may also be wise.
Additionally, keeping food tightly sealed, avoiding trash accumulation, and securing windows and doors are measures that help prevent pest infestations. Cooperation among students is essential, as an infestation detected in one room can spread to other areas of the property. Therefore, it is essential to immediately report any signs of pests to act quickly and efficiently.
If signs of infestation are detected, it is vital not to resort to homemade solutions, as they may not be effective. Rentokil recommends the intervention of professionals who can identify the species and its origin, establishing the appropriate treatment. For termites and woodworms, there are specific solutions such as SentriTech, which uses bait stations to target colonies.
Inspecting the home before moving in, being aware of warning signs, and maintaining constant communication are essential steps to prevent a small presence of insects or rodents from turning into a major problem.
Source: Based on information from Rentokil. Image taken from: mirevista.com.
