Bugs and pests in the home can be a huge inconvenience and safety hazard. Without proper upkeep and pest management, they can spread diseases, ruin furniture and inflict hundreds of dollars in repairs. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that you can take to protect your home and keep the bugs out. Here are five ways to make sure your living environment stays pest-free:
1. Remove Food Sources
One of the best and simplest ways to deter pests is to remove any food and water sources they may be attracted to. Whether they’re looking for a snack or a place to nest, food sources are often the first thing pests will target. Make sure to properly store food and drinks, vacuum frequently and put any garbage cans in air-tight containers.
Store Food Properly
Always make sure to store food in tightly sealed containers whenever possible. To prevent moisture from getting in, it’s best to use food-grade containers or air-tight mason jars. Don’t forget to put leftovers in the fridge too, as bugs love warm and moldy food.
Take Out the Trash
Garbage is a common source of food and moisture for most pests. If you don’t take out your garbage regularly, you may create an inviting environment for pests. Be sure to take the trash out of your house as often as possible—at least two to three times a week—and avoid throwing organic food waste on your lawn.
2. Fill in Cracks and Crevices
Crevices and cracks can make an excellent home for pests. Though some of these openings may be quite small, the tiniest gaps can be an entryway for pests. Be sure to check for hard-to-spot cracks and fill them with caulk or foam so that your living environment is sealed off from bugs.
Check High and Low
bug-proofing your home doesn’t just mean checking the obvious places like doors or windows. You should also check your walls, ceilings and corners for openings that may seem too small for the eye to catch. Use a caulking gun to fill in these cracks and prevent pests from making their way inside.
Pay Extra Attention in the Kitchen
The kitchen is often the number one spot for food storage and therefore a major target for pests. Make sure to frequently seal off any gaps near your stove and countertop, as this is where most pests are likely to make their way in.
3. Regularly Clean the Home
In addition to taking out the trash and storing food properly, common cleaning practices can be a great way to keep your home pest-free. Vacuuming, mopping and dusting regularly will help remove food particles and other debris that may attract pests.
Vacuum Frequently
Vacuuming your living environment regularly is one of the best ways to keep pest levels at bay. Vacuum your carpets, furniture and curtains at least once a week to remove any food crumbs and other debris that pests may be attracted to.
Mop and Dust Consistently
In addition to vacuuming, it’s equally important to mop and dust your home as well. Be sure to use disinfectant when mopping and add in washing rugs and carpets to keep things hygienic. For dusting, make sure to wipe down surfaces and appliances and even use a duster with an extendable handle to reach hard-to-get spots.
4. Invest in Pest Control Services
If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve done all you can but are still seeing pests in your home, it may be time to invest in professional pest control services. Pest control experts have the proper equipment and pest-specific knowledge to quickly and effectively eradicate pests from your home.
Find Reputable Professionals
When looking for pest control services, it’s important to choose a company that is licensed, insured and accredited. Doing your research and asking around can help you find the right group of professionals who can give you excellent service and peace of mind.
Regular Maintenance Services
Though one-time pest control services may be enough to eradicate pests from your home, regular maintenance is still key. Maintenance services typically include an appointment with a pest professional every few months to inspect your house for any new signs of pests and to apply any necessary treatment.
5. Take Steps to Keep Pests Away
Aside from keeping things organized and investing in pest control services, there are some other simple steps that you can take to keep pests away from your home. Investing in preventive measures can be a cost-effective and easy way to keep things pest-free.
Seal Off Entryways
Do a quick scan of the outside of your home for any entry points that pests may be using to get in. This can include unsealed windows, vents, doors, pipelines and more. Sealing off these points with caulk or screening can help keep pests from getting in.
Use Citrus & Essential Oils
Citrus and essential oils, such as eucalyptus, are known to repel certain types of bugs and pests. Spraying them around entrance points can help keep your home free of bugs. Be sure to research which oils are most effective in deterring the type of pests that you may have in your home.
People Also Ask
What are the best ways to prevent pest infestation?
The best ways to prevent a pest infestation are to remove food sources, keep the area clean and take measures to seal off entry points. Additionally, investing in professional pest control services and using natural deterrents can be an effective way to keep pests away from your home.
Does bleach get rid of pests?
Bleach can be an effective tool in exterminating certain types of pests from your home. However, it is important to be aware that bleach can be dangerous and cause discoloration or staining, so use it sparingly.
How often does a home need to be sprayed for pests?
The frequency of pest spray treatments depends on a number of factors, such as the severity of the infestation and the area in which you live. It’s generally recommended to have the home treated once a year and to sign up for routine maintenance services.
Final Words
Though pests in the home can be a tricky problem to deal with, taking preventative steps like removing food sources, cleaning or investing in professional pest control services can be a great way to keep the bugs out and maintain a pest-free home. Make sure to use these four simple tips to keep your living environment safe and bug-free.