How to do it:
Store dry goods in airtight containers. Regularly clean pantry shelves and vacuum cracks. Freeze infested items for at least 4 days. Use bay leaves or whole cloves in storage areas as natural repellents. Inspect groceries before storing.

Result:
These steps can reduce the risk of Drugstore Beetle infestations and protect your food from damage.

Problem:
This method may fail if beetles are already present in hidden areas, or if containers are not truly airtight, allowing beetles to access food.

How to do it:
Place whole cloves or bay leaves in storage containers or on pantry shelves. Clean shelves thoroughly and store dry goods in airtight glass or metal containers.

Result:

• Cloves and bay leaves repel drugstore beetles naturally
• Airtight containers prevent beetle access
• Regular cleaning removes eggs and larvae

Problem:
This method may fail if containers are not fully sealed or if an infestation is already present inside packaging.

How to do it:
Physically remove infested items and seal entry points to prevent Drugstore Beetle access.

Result:

• Inspect all food and pantry items for beetle presence.
• Discard infested goods in sealed bags.
• Clean shelves and storage areas thoroughly.
• Store new goods in airtight containers.
• Seal cracks and gaps in pantry and storage areas.

Problem:
This method may fail if beetles or eggs are hidden in overlooked items or inaccessible crevices, allowing reinfestation.

How to do it:
Use natural predators like parasitoid wasps to control Drugstore Beetles. Purchase Trichogramma wasps online. Release them near pantry shelves and food storage areas. Keep the area clean and dry to support wasp activity. Repeat releases every few weeks for ongoing protection.

Result:
Reduced Drugstore Beetle population and less food damage.

Problem:
This method may fail if wasps cannot find beetle eggs, if food is not properly sealed, or if environmental conditions are unsuitable for wasp survival.

How to do it:
Apply a residual insecticide (e.g., permethrin or cyfluthrin) to cracks, crevices, and storage areas. Remove all food items before treatment. Allow treated surfaces to dry completely before restocking. Use insecticide dust in hard-to-reach areas. Repeat treatment every few months.

Result:
Reduces and prevents Drugstore Beetle infestations by killing adults and larvae hiding in storage areas.

Problem:
Method may fail if food is not removed before treatment, if beetles are inside unopened packages, or if insecticide is not applied thoroughly.