Common Pests Found in Homes and How to Get Rid of Them Safely

Dealing with pests in our homes can take a lot of time and money. Thankfully, you can eradicate most common household pests without harsh chemicals. But if you’re after a surefire way to rid your home of pests, it helps to know a little about the critters causing all the trouble. I mean, it’s challenging to deal with an adversary you’re unaware of, right?

An exterminator can also help you resolve a persistent pest problem. With that in mind, Click Here to learn more about Alder Pest Control and the pet and family-friendly products the top-rated firm uses. Meanwhile, here’s an overview of the common pests you might encounter in your home, including ways to eradicate them safely.

Ants

These household critters have some of the most impressive social lives. For states, they hang out in colonies comprising thousands of members and work together like a synchronized swimming team. They even have designated nurses!

Plus, ants are not picky eaters. They’ll munch on anything from crumbs to scraps. The common types of ants include carpenter ants, odorous house ants, pavement ants, and garden ants. Some safe ingredients to eradicate or repel ants include diatomaceous earth, black pepper, tea tree oil, boiling water, and white vinegar.

Flies

House flies don’t need the invitation to make themselves at home – an open door or window will do just fine. They typically breed in moist, organic material like compost heaps or food residue on surfaces.

These pests are notorious for transmitting diseases such as salmonella and cholera, so it’s critical to get rid of them quickly. To tackle a fly infestation, remove the sources of their food and breeding sites, such as garbage cans and compost piles. You may also use flytraps, essential oils, or a mixture of dish soap and vinegar. Alternatively, plant herbs such as basil and lavender in your garden to repel them.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches have been around for millennia, meaning they’re survival experts. These bugs have seen it all, from the dinosaurs to the Kardashians. But don’t let their impressive lifespan fool you – these little guys can be trouble. They love hiding in dark and humid places, like under sinks and toilets.

And when they crawl out of those spots, they can cause food-borne ailments such as E. coli and more. To eliminate cockroaches, use household ingredients like boric acid, diatomaceous earth, borax, and essential oils. But if they keep making a comeback despite your best efforts, call in a professional company like Alder Pest Control to take care of the problem.

Rats and Mice

Does your attic sound like it’s hosting a ‘party’? If so, you might have some uninvited rodent guests. Rats and mice can make homes everywhere, from cozy cottages to towering skyscrapers. But how do they do it, you ask?

Well, owing to their size, they can wiggle and squeeze into any nook they desire. And while they mostly stay out of our hair, these little critters can wreak serious havoc. For instance, they can chew on everything from electrical cables to your prized woodwork.

Some safe pest control measures you can adopt include traps, peppermint oil, removing food sources, and caulking gaps or crevices. Sanitization also helps keep them away. A pest management company can also help if all else fails.

Bedbugs

As true bedroom villains, bedbugs sure can disrupt your sleep. These little critters have an insatiable appetite for blood. They mostly feast at night, typically on our exposed skin, and then hide away in the small cracks they can find during the day.

Bedbugs are tough to eradicate since DIY treatments such as vacuuming and encasing our mattresses only do so much. The ideal approach involves a combination of chemical and heat treatments offered by an experienced pest control company.

Mosquitoes

Talk of mammal-loving blood-suckers and mosquitoes comes to mind. These insects are a nuisance in most outdoor activities, particularly during summertime. And thanks to their small size, they can easily find access to our homes.

Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water and are a health hazard the world over. Generally, they can transmit malaria, dengue, West Nile virus, and yellow fellow, among other diseases.

Remove standing water around your property from puddles or dirty gutters to get rid of these pests. Mesh screens on your windows and doors can also stop them from getting inside, as will electronic insect swatters or bug zappers.

These pests can be a real headache, especially if you don’t know how to deal with them. Hopefully, the tips above can help you tackle a pest problem and reclaim your dwelling. And for professional assistance, call in your go-to expert.