We all know that pests like rodents, cockroaches, spiders, termites, ants and such not only bring threats to our health but can also cause damage to our property (and pockets because of repair costs). One of the best ways to get rid of these unwanted pests is to ask for help from pest control services and let them do their job.
Not only that these pests bring harmful diseases to your family, but they can also affect and lower your home’s market value and appeal to potential buyers and renters. I mean, who would want to live in a house full of flies, rats, and cockroaches?
But don’t worry! We’ve compiled simple and easy ways to address your pest problem. Don’t let the bed bugs bite by knowing and implementing these pest prevention tips!
Pest Control Tips and Tricks
Keep the kitchen clean
Many pests love to thrive in dirty, damp places and one of their favorite areas in your home is the kitchen where they can feast on the rubbish and trash you throw in the bin. Keep the kitchen counters, sink, racks, and stove-top clean to prevent any pest infestation. Wipe away that spilled milk before ants could start circling around it. Don’t forget the fallen food crumbs and particles– ants love them too. Remember, your kitchen is one of the places that attract pests the most so it’s important to always keep it sparkly clean.
Keep the bathroom clean
Keeping the shower curtain dry and moss-free, checking and cleaning the drain from any clogs (hair and soap particles), and wiping away the sink and counter are some of the measures that you can do to keep cockroaches and other pests away from your bathroom.
Dispose of trash and litter properly
You can find common pests like rats, mice, and cockroaches feasting on the rubbish and litter in your trash bin. Household garbage is the main attractor of pests in our house so it’s important to empty that bin daily. Also, we do not want any rotten food particles scattered around the house so keep those bins tightly covered.
Fix cracks and gaps
Windows and doors aren’t the only gateways of pests into your home. Yes, you may have fixed that broken window and installed mesh wires for an added layer of security but you forgot to fill in those cracks and gaps. The crevices, cracks, and gaps in the house exterior can serve as entry points for pests. You can use copper mesh or expanding foam insulation to caulk these entryways.
Do not allow water to stand
Stagnant water is the perfect breeding place for dengue-carrying mosquitoes. Make sure to get rid of any container that can stock water. Regularly check and clean drains from leaves, branches, or debris that blocks the free flow of water. Cover your buckets of water in the bathroom, if possible.
Eliminate ant trails
If you see a single, lone ant crawling on your table or walls, chances are, there’ll be more to show up soon. Ants leave a trail of scent for other ants to follow. In order to eliminate these trails and prevent ants nesting outdoors from entering your home, mix one part vinegar and 3 parts water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution in places where you’ve seen some ants.
For ants that are already nesting inside your home, it’s best to use ant baits to eliminate them.
Store food in sealed containers
Fruits and vegetables, especially overripe ones, can attract insects like fruit flies. Avoid leaving cut up fruits and vegetables out in the open for a long period of time. While fruit flies are harmless in general, leaving cut up fruits and vegetables out in the open for a long a period of time can attract other pests like rodents and cockroaches.
Speaking of rodents, these little creatures love to hang out in our pantry, kitchen drawers & cabinets and feast on our stocks behind our backs. You’ll find out about the dark deed the moment you fetch your favorite cereal and discover its gnawed top.
It’s better to store your pantry essentials like cereals and crackers in reusable containers if the packaging cannot be sealed completely. Clean your pantry regularly to get rid of spoiled food and those you don’t plan on eating for a pest free pantry!
Likewise, you should also store your beloved pets’ food inside sealed containers or metal, lidded cans.
Maintain your garden
Pest infestation can also happen outdoors– in your backyard and gardens. Prevent such thing by keeping your yard and garden well-maintained. Trim those tree branches that serve as bridges for these pests to crawl in to your home. Fill in pits or holes to prevent water stagnation. Ensure that the trash cans outside your house have proper lids as well.
Clean your home on a regular basis
Pest problems arise from dirty homes and surroundings. The most effective preventive measure against pest infestation is to keep your home clean and tidy on a regular basis. The cleaner your home is, the less it will be attractive to pests and insects. Regular sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming will disturb any breeding grounds that pests may consider for nesting. Inspecting your home regularly will make you spot more cracks and crevices to seal in to prevent pest entry.
Stop Bugging Me!
Preventing pests from entering your home starts with your initiative and consistent effort of keeping our space well-kept and tidy. While having a regular pest control visit helps a lot in maintaining a pest free home, knowing and following these pest control tips is another preventive way to keep the bed bugs away.
Having a clean home keeps you and your family away from harmful diseases that these pests carry. Getting ahead of potential problems will save you a lot in your pocket– dodging frequent calling for pest control services and paying for repair these infestations caused. It’s better to act now than feel sorry for later. So, will you please stop ‘bugging’ me?
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