How Movers Handle Items That Smell or Attract Pests

actofclassmoving
Jan 13
3 min read

Some items need special attention during a move because they emit strong odors or could attract pests. A good local moving team knows how to pack and transport these items without causing problems. This post covers how to prep smelly belongings, deal with pet odors, handle musty furniture, and keep pests out of your stuff. The right approach makes a big difference in keeping everything fresh and pest-free. Read on for practical tips that make the process easier.

Preparing for Odorous Items

Handling smelly items during a move takes a few extra steps to keep things fresh. Pack these belongings in sealable plastic bags or airtight containers to trap odors and stop them from spreading. Odor-fighting products like baking soda or activated charcoal can absorb lingering smells. Label these items clearly as "fragile" and "odorous" so movers know to handle them carefully. When loading the truck, keep these items away from furniture and clothing to avoid cross-contamination. Taking these steps keeps the moving process scent-free and pleasant for everyone.

Dealing With Pet-Related Odors

Pet smells can stick around if you don't address them before and during your move. Here's how to handle pet-related odors:

Deep Clean Surfaces: Scrub and sanitize all surfaces that may have absorbed pet odors.
Use Odor Neutralizers: Apply pet-safe odor neutralizers to eliminate lingering odors.
Wash Pet Bedding: Clean all pet bedding, blankets, and toys to remove odors before packing.
Ventilate Spaces: Keep air circulating throughout the move to clear out trapped odors.

Managing Musty Furniture Smells

Musty furniture needs some attention before it goes into the moving truck. Start by airing out the pieces in a well-ventilated spot to cut down on that stale smell. Vacuum the furniture thoroughly, getting into all the crevices where odors tend to hide. For wooden pieces, wipe down surfaces with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar, then polish gently to restore the shine. Upholstered furniture benefits from a sprinkle of baking soda; let it sit overnight to absorb odors, then vacuum it up. You can also tuck sachets of activated charcoal or coffee grounds into drawers and cabinets to neutralize any remaining mustiness.

Addressing Pests-Attracting Items

Some belongings can attract pests if you're not careful during a move. A detailed inspection and some preventive steps go a long way in avoiding infestations. When dealing with items that might draw pests, follow these tips:

Seal Cracks and Crevices: Close off all potential entry points to keep pests out.
Use Sealed Storage Bins: Store items in airtight containers to reduce the risk of attracting bugs or rodents.
Inspect Outdoor Items: Check outdoor belongings for signs of pests before bringing them inside.
Avoid Storing Food: Don't pack perishable items; they're a magnet for pests during relocation.

Using Odor Neutralizers and Repellents

Checking items for odors that might attract pests is a smart move before loading up. Odor neutralizers break down the molecules that cause the smell, removing the scent that draws pests in. Products like activated charcoal or baking soda work well when placed near items prone to odors. Repellents create a barrier that keeps pests from getting close to specific belongings. Natural options like peppermint or cedar oil, whether in essential oil form or commercial products, do a solid job of keeping critters away. Using both neutralizers and repellents helps ensure a pest-free, fresh-smelling move.

Ensuring Pest-Free Transport

Getting your stuff from point A to point B without pests tagging along takes some careful planning. Professional movers seal and inspect all containers before loading them onto the truck. Here's how the process typically works:

Sealing Gaps and Cracks: Quality sealants close off any openings that pests could slip through.
Monitoring Temperature: Maintaining the truck at the right temperature helps prevent pests that thrive in specific conditions.
Using Pest-Repellent Materials: Adding pest-repellent materials creates an environment that bugs and rodents want to avoid.
Regular Inspections: Checking containers throughout transport catches any potential pest issues early.