Should pest-free items be stored near infested items to prevent the spread of infestation?

Storing pest-free items near infested items is not advisable as it can facilitate the spread of pests from the infested items to those that are currently free of pests. The rationale behind this is that pests often move in search of food, shelter, or breeding grounds. By keeping infested items in proximity to pest-free items, you create an environment where pests can easily access and infest the latter. Effective pest management involves isolating infested items to curb the infestation and prevent it from spreading to other areas or items. Therefore, it is essential to keep pest-free items away from infested ones to maintain their integrity and prevent potential outbreaks in clean areas.