Daycares and schools need pest control that works without putting children at risk. The best approach is integrated pest management, or IPM. That means inspecting first, fixing what draws pests in, using baits in tamper-resistant stations instead of open sprays, and treating only when children are not in the building. It is the approach recommended by university extension programs across the country, including UF/IFAS in Florida.
What pests do Florida schools and daycares see most?
- Ants in classrooms, kitchens and snack areas
- Cockroaches in kitchens, restrooms and storage rooms
- Rodents in storage, attics and around dumpsters
- Fire ants on playgrounds and fields
- Wasps under playground equipment and roof edges
- Lice, which are a health issue for families, not a building pest
What does safer pest control look like?
- Inspect and identify. Find the pest and where it comes from before treating.
- Fix the cause. Seal gaps, fix leaks, store snacks in sealed bins and empty trash daily.
- Use baits in tamper-resistant stations placed where children cannot reach.
- Use crack-and-crevice treatments inside walls and voids, not on open surfaces.
- Treat playgrounds carefully, focusing on individual fire ant mounds and keeping kids off treated areas as directed.
- Schedule service when children are away, such as evenings, weekends or holidays.
- Keep records of what was used, where and when.
How should staff report pests?
Keep a simple pest log at the front desk. Staff write down the date, room and what they saw. Your technician reviews it on every visit. This catches problems early and helps target treatment.
Tips for teachers and staff
- Store classroom snacks in sealed plastic bins, not cardboard boxes.
- Wipe tables and floors after meals and snacks.
- Do not bring store-bought sprays from home.
- Report wasp nests and fire ant mounds on the playground right away.
Frequently asked questions
Is pest control safe in a daycare? It can be, when it follows IPM: baits in stations, crack-and-crevice work, and service when children are away.
How often should a daycare get pest control? Monthly or every other month is common. Kitchens and older buildings may need more.
Can you treat fire ants on a playground? Yes. We treat individual mounds and tell you when children can use the area again.
Protect the children in your care
EcoSmart Pest Solutions works with daycares, preschools and private schools across Tampa Bay. See our commercial pest control, read about fire ant mounds, or call (813) 602-5619 for a free inspection.
