Household pests can be widespread in any area; however, the region you live in will dictate the type of pests you get and the level of the issue you could potentially have.
Common issues like ants, rodent infestation, or wasp nests can be unsettling and worrying and, if left to go on for too long, will require pest control services to eliminate the issues safely. But you can help your home to stay pest-free as much as possible by following these tips.
Clear Food
Unwanted or discarded food being left lying around on countertops or floors by trash cans will instantly attract all kinds of animals and pests to your home. Rodents, for example, and flies will be hot off the mark when detecting food being left out, and if you’re in an area with raccoons, they too will want to rummage through your trash if it’s left lying out.
Always clear food away after cooking and make sure it’s disposed of in a sealed container or bags are tied to prevent access. Don’t leave your full trash bags on the ground in your yard, and make sure they’re put in the right place and aren’t easy targets for pests in the home.
Seal Entryways
More often than not, you won’t be alerted to how pests are gaining entry to your home, especially if it’s in the basement, in crawl spaces, or via the roof, for example, until they’ve already made themselves at home. But doing a regular sweep of your premises for entry points where pests can access your property means you can seal them up before you get a problem. Think holes in flooring, cracks in window frames, damaged timber or missing brickwork in the construction of the home, or simply a door or window is left open when it shouldn’t be.
Clean your Drains
If you’re letting gunk build up in your drains or collecting debris, this will instantly invite pests. If you already have a pest issue or want to make double sure nothing is signaling a free for at your home, clean any rebuild up from your drains regularly and clean them with disinfectant and hot water to remove lingering odors and dirt from the gutters. This will keep them smelling fresh and uninviting.
Disinfectant
A clean home is less appealing to most pests than a dirty one. The cleaner your home, the more likely you will avoid any issues. Using disinfectant to clean your house will remove any lingering bacteria and the likelihood that something will attract pests, making it much healthier and safer for you. Vacuum and clean your carpets, rugs, and upholstery regularly, too, to free them from dirt and dust that might be trapped, and also pet hair and dander if you have pets.
Pests aren’t always 100% avoidable. But there are things you can do to limit your chances of an infestation. These tips contribute to a clean and healthy home, and this is often your best line of defense against pests.