Do weevils and insects get infested in pulses and rice during the rainy season? Follow these easy tips, you will remain safe for months

By Sandy Verma On Jul 21, 2026

Due to increase in humidity in the air during the rainy season, the problem of weevils and insects getting infected in pulses, rice and other grains becomes common. In such a situation, if they are not stored properly, the entire ration can get spoiled within a few days. However, by adopting some easy kitchen tips, you can keep pulses and rice safe and fresh for a long time.

How to protect pulses and rice from weevils and insects

- How to avoid weevil infestation in rice: Use of bay leaves and cloves: Put 2-3 dried bay leaves in the boxes of pulses and rice. Its strong scent helps keep away mites and small insects. By the way, dry neem leaves work as a natural insect repellent. Keeping them in a box of pulses or rice prevents the formation of mites.

- How to avoid insects in lentils: Often people advise to keep bay leaves, cloves or camphor in lentils to protect them from insects, but celebrity chef Pankaj Bhadauria says that to protect lentils from insects, you should keep salt in it. Adding salt to the dala dries up the moisture present in it. Due to lack of moisture, insects are not able to pump in it. This is a very effective and cheap way to prevent pulses from spoiling.

Keep these things in mind

- Store in an airtight container: Moisture is the biggest problem during rainy season. Therefore, always keep pulses and rice in a clean and completely dry airtight container, so that moisture cannot enter inside.

- Be sure to expose to sunlight: If you want to store it for a long time, then expose the pulses and rice in sunlight for 2-3 hours every 15-20 days. This removes moisture and reduces the risk of mites.

- Dry thoroughly before storing: After purchasing new pulses or rice, if there is even slight moisture in them, then dry them in the sun or fan for some time and then store them in a box.

- Keep in a dry place: Keep the ration boxes in a place where there is less humidity. Avoid placing near sink, gas stove or wet walls.