5 Questions with Kim Kelley-Tunis

1. Steri-fab has a reputation as an effective bed bug control product. What other pests can Steri-fab be used to control?

Steri-fab has a broad range of uses and is labeled for a wide array of pests, including roaches, ants, silverfish, lice and louse eggs, fleas, ticks, sowbugs, centipedes, firebrats, mites and, of course, bed bugs. To effectively control these arthropods, spray Steri-fab directly on the pests being treated. Steri-fab also works as an antimicrobial on soft, porous surfaces such as mattresses and upholstered furniture, and can be used as a disinfectant on hard, non-porous surfaces. Most products do not have this range of use. The versatile label enhances pest management services for difficult pests such as lice, mites and even athlete’s foot fungus. It is particularly useful in areas serving children and the elderly.

2. The label states that Steri-fab can be used to treat lice. How can it be used when handling those accounts?

Steri-fab is a very helpful product when dealing with lice accounts. While Steri-fab cannot be applied to the living hosts lice rely on, it can be used on soft surfaces such as furniture, mattresses, cracks, crevices and folds where they might be present. It can also be used on hard surfaces such as lockers and clothing storage areas. This flexibility is especially helpful in treating areas where infested clothing or other articles may be stored.

3. How else can I use Steri-fab as part of my pest management program?

Besides general use as a fungicide, mildewcide and moldicide, Steri-fab also specifically lists Herpes Simplex Type 2 (VR-734), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15442) and athlete’s foot fungus (Trichophyton interdigitale [ATCC 9533]) on surfaces, as well as gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms. Steri-fab is also on the EPA’s List N for use against SARS-CoV-2. Steri-fab’s range makes it a great addition to the IPM toolbox when treating areas highly susceptible to the spread of these easily transmissible bacteria and fungi. Such places include assisted living facilities, medical facilities, fitness facilities and athletic training facilities, to name a few.

4. Can Steri-fab be used to control fleas on carpets?

Yes, Steri-fab is labeled for lice and fleas. Its flexible label allows for treatment of soft surfaces like carpet. Always test an inconspicuous area for compatibility, then simply spray the area thoroughly and repeatedly, directing spray especially into areas where pets spend most of their time. Treated areas should remain wet for 10 minutes. Thoroughly ventilate and wait at least 15 minutes after treatment before allowing the reentry of humans and furry friends.

5. Can Steri-fab be used to treat for pests within restaurants?

Yes, Steri-fab can be used within restaurants. There are a few limitations on how and where the product can be applied, though. For instance, do not treat food contact surfaces and food preparation areas with Steri-fab. Restrooms and serving areas, such as dining rooms, may be treated when food is not present and when the facility is not in operation.

In dining areas, Steri-fab can be used to treat around windows and doors, as well as beneath and around booths and benches used for seating. It is important to remember that when treating these areas, utensils and other serving equipment must be covered during application.