Home Hacks: 7 Simple and Effective Tips for Storing Grains Pest-Free in Monsoons

Monsoons bring moisture and humidity that can easily spoil grains and attract pests if not stored properly. These 7 simple and effective home hacks will help keep your grains fresh, dry, and pest-free all season long. 

The rains bring relief from the scorching heat of summer, but they also bring loads of humidity and moisture, making it just the right breeding ground for pests in kitchens. Insects, mold, and spoiling get to these commodities during such season, particularly with grains such as rice, wheat, and pulses. A little trick and a few hacks can help keep your pantry pest-free and your grains fresh for the rest of the season. Here are 7 home tips that can be put to good use.

7 Simple and Effective Tips for Storing Grains Pest-Free in Monsoons:

1. Sun-Dry Grains Before Storing

Spreading grains in the sun and drying for a few hours before storage-or even up to a couple of days, if possible is excellent practice. Sun drying will eliminate any extra moisture and kill off any insect eggs that may be tucked away in the grains. Even a few hours of sun will do a lot toward extending life.

2. Airtight Containers Should Be Used

Humidity is a big reason for grains inviting pests during the monsoon. So it is always a good idea to store grains in airtight containers-preferable glass, stainless steel, or high-quality plastic jars. This will not allow any moisture in and, more importantly, keep the bugs away. Cloth or loosely sealed bags should be avoided.

3. Bay Leaves or Neem Leaves Natural Repellents

Bay leaves and neem leaves come with very strong insect-repelling properties. Just adding a few dried bay leaves or neem leaves to your grain containers will keep pest species, such as weevils and moths, away in a natural way without compromising taste or quality of grains in any way.

4. Dry Red Chillies or Garlic Pods

One more time-tested method is to put whole dry red chillies or several garlic pods in your grain jars. Their strong odor keeps pests away while maintaining a dry atmosphere inside the container. Ensure the chilies are perfectly dry when using them.

5. Salt or Hing (Asafoetida).

Sprinkling a little rock salt or small pieces of hing inside the container works to absorb moisture and repel insects. Both are natural preservatives and assist in keeping the smell and texture of grains stored intact.

6. Freeze Grains for a Day Before Storing.

Instead, try freezing for 24 hours and then store grains that just got bought. Doing so kills any lurking larvae or eggs in them, preventing imminent infestations. After freezing, allow the grain to come back to room temperature before sealing into containers.

7. Inspect Regularly and Rotate Stock

Every couple of weeks during monsoon, look into the grain storage. Watch out for any signs of dampness, pests, or odors. First in, first out means using older stock, and rotating the grains goes a long way in stopping spoilage. Vigilance really pays off here.

Grain spoilage and infestation could be very taxing during monsoon. With these easy-peasy natural and frugal hacks, your kitchen will be kept fresh, organized, and pest-free. A little bit of preparation right now can save you tons of trouble-and money-later.