Prep & Checklists
No guesswork. These quick checklists help you get ready so your treatment works as well as possible — and so Bret can do the job safely and efficiently.
If you’re ever unsure about something on this page, just:
Call BretGeneral Pest Prep
To prepare for general pest control in Oklahoma, follow these 9 simple steps to ensure the most effective treatment against ants, spiders, and seasonal invaders.
Before Bret Arrives
- Clear items from under sinks in the kitchen and bathrooms.
- Move small items away from baseboards where possible.
- Pick up children’s toys, pet toys and clutter from floors.
- Put away pet food and water dishes.
- Remove clutter from corners where pests might hide.
In the Kitchen
- Wipe down countertops.
- Store food in sealed containers where possible.
- Put away open food, bread, snacks and pet treats.
After Treatment
- Let treated surfaces dry completely before touching or cleaning.
- Expect some pest activity for 24–48 hours — that’s normal.
Roach Clean-Out Prep (German Roaches)
To prepare for a German Roach clean-out, strictly follow these 10 steps. Proper preparation is 90% of the battle in eliminating roach infestations.
Before Bret Arrives
- Completely empty all kitchen cabinets (upper and lower).
- Bag or remove food items, silverware, plates, cups and cookware.
- Wipe down the inside and outside of cabinets.
- Clear countertops and move small appliances so Bret can treat behind and under them.
- Remove trash and wipe out trash cans.
- Vacuum floors, especially under appliances.
Bathrooms
- Empty under-sink cabinets.
- Remove items from counters.
What NOT to Do
- Do not spray store-bought bug spray before the appointment.
- Do not place glue traps unless Bret tells you to.
After Treatment
- Let cabinets dry before putting items back.
- Expect increased activity for several days — that’s normal during a clean-out.
- Do not wash treated surfaces unless Bret advises it.
Rodent Service Prep
To prepare for rodent service in Green Country homes, follow these 5 steps to help us identify entry points and travel paths for mice and rats.
Before Bret Arrives
- Clear clutter away from walls and corners.
- Pick up items from floors so Bret can inspect thoroughly.
- Move stored boxes 6–12 inches away from walls where possible.
- Make sure attic and crawlspace access points are not blocked.
If You’ve Seen Droppings
- Leave droppings in place so Bret can see patterns — don’t clean them up first.
Pets
- Keep pets away from snap traps and bait stations after they’re placed.
Flea & Tick Treatment Prep
To prepare for flea and tick treatment, follow these key steps. Vacuuming and pet treatment are essential for breaking the flea life cycle.
Inside the Home
- Vacuum all floors, carpets, rugs and furniture thoroughly.
- Wash pet bedding in hot water.
- Pick up items from carpeted floors so treatment can reach all areas.
Yard & Pets
- Mow the yard before outdoor treatment.
- Remove yard clutter, toys and debris.
- Treat all pets with a vet-approved flea/tick product the same day or before the appointment.
- Keep pets off treated surfaces until they’re fully dry.
After Treatment
- Vacuum daily for 7–14 days to help break the life cycle.
- Expect some activity for the first week — that’s normal.
Bed Bug Prep
Bed bug work has the most prep, but it’s also where good prep makes the biggest difference.
Before Bret Arrives
- Remove all bedding (sheets, pillowcases, blankets) and wash/dry on high heat.
- Place clean bedding in sealed bags until after treatment.
- Declutter bedrooms — remove items from floors and from under beds.
- Pull beds and furniture 12–18 inches from walls.
- Bag soft items and fabrics like stuffed animals and launder/dry if possible.
What NOT to Do
- Do not move infested items into other rooms.
- Do not throw away mattresses or furniture without checking with Bret.
- Do not use over-the-counter bed bug sprays.
After Treatment
- Only re-enter when Bret says it’s safe.
- Follow any scheduled follow-up visits — these are important.
- Keep reducing clutter and reheating items as instructed.
What to Expect on Service Day
Arrival & Walkthrough
- Bret will walk the property with you.
- You’ll talk through what you’re seeing and what you’ve prepped.
- He’ll explain what he’s going to do in plain English.
Treatment Time
- Most general pest services take 30–60 minutes.
- Roach, bed bug and rodent services can take longer.
Do I Need to Leave?
- General pest: usually no.
- Roach clean-outs: sometimes, depending on the situation.
- Bed bugs: yes, you’ll leave during treatment.
- Flea & tick: pets must be removed from treated areas.
Dry Time
- Most products dry within 30–60 minutes.
- Keep kids and pets off treated areas until they’re fully dry.
Prep & Service FAQs
- Do I have to do every single step on the prep list?
- Just do your best. The more prep you complete, the better the results — especially for roach and bed bug work.
- Should I clean after the treatment?
- Avoid mopping or wiping treated baseboards for a few days. Normal cleaning is fine unless Bret says otherwise.
- How soon will I stop seeing pests?
- General pests: usually within 24–48 hours. Roaches and bed bugs: you may see more activity at first — that’s part of the process.
- Do you treat rentals, Airbnbs and lake houses?
- Yes. Bret regularly works on lake properties, vacation rentals and rural homes.
- What if I’m not sure I prepped correctly?
- Just call or text. Bret will walk you through what matters most for your specific service.
Not Sure If You’re Ready for Your Appointment?
Send a quick message or call, and Bret will help you prioritize what’s most important on your prep list.