How to do it:
Store flour and grains in airtight containers. Freeze new flour for 4 days before storing. Regularly clean pantry shelves and remove old or spilled food. Use bay leaves in containers as a natural repellent. Rotate stock to use older products first.

Result:
Reduces the risk of flour beetle infestation and helps keep pantry goods fresh and safe.

Problem:
If containers are not fully airtight or cleaning is inconsistent, beetles may still infest goods. Eggs already present in purchased flour can hatch despite precautions.

How to do it:
Store flour in airtight containers. Add a few dried bay leaves inside the container. Clean pantry shelves regularly and vacuum cracks. Freeze newly bought flour for 48 hours before storing.

Result:
This method repels flour beetles naturally, prevents infestation, and keeps your goods safe without chemicals.

Problem:
If containers are not fully airtight or bay leaves lose potency, beetles may still infest your goods. Regular maintenance is essential.

How to do it:
Physically remove visible flour beetles and exclude them from goods by cleaning and sealing storage areas.

Result:

• Inspect all food storage areas regularly.
• Remove and discard infested products.
• Clean shelves, cracks, and crevices thoroughly.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Seal gaps and entry points in storage spaces.

Problem:
This method may fail if eggs or larvae are hidden in overlooked areas or if containers are not fully airtight, allowing reinfestation.

How to do it:
Use natural predators or parasites to control flour beetles.

Result:

• Release predatory insects like parasitoid wasps (e.g., Anisopteromalus calandrae) near food storage areas.
• Keep storage areas clean and dry to support predator effectiveness.
• Regularly monitor for beetle activity and replenish predators as needed.

Problem:
This method may fail if predators cannot survive indoors, if food is not properly sealed, or if infestations are too large for predators to control.

How to do it:
Use a chemical DIY method by applying food-safe insecticidal dust or diatomaceous earth to cracks, crevices, and storage areas. Clean and dry all surfaces before application. Store grains in airtight containers after treatment.

Result:
This method kills existing flour beetles and prevents new infestations by creating a barrier that damages their exoskeletons.

Problem:
The method may fail if the chemical is not food-safe, not applied thoroughly, or if infested goods are not removed, allowing beetles to survive and spread.