There are a variety of pests that may penetrate our homes, including mosquitoes, cockroaches, rodents, and ants to name a few. While these insects are tiny in comparison to humans and pets, they are, however, harmful as they can be carriers of some contagious diseases.
For example, mosquitoes are known to be carriers of malaria, dengue and yellow fever. Banana spiders, on the other hand, can cause some nasty bites which can lead to pain and blisters (in case you might ask “Are banana spiders poisonous?”, you might want to check the link).
Instead of focusing on the downsides, let us know the ways to prevent the infestation of these harmful pests in our homes. Hopefully, these tips can help you:
Observe your surroundings
One of the basic ways to prevent bug infestation is to search for warning signs and problems to cease them from invading your home. For example, firewoods can make ants and termites comfortable; therefore, it is much better to store firewoods at least 20 feet from your house. Also, pooled water that is deposited in areas like birdbaths, the interior of tire swings, and catch basins can be an optimal breeding ground for mosquitoes.
It is suggested that water in these areas must be disposed of immediately to avoid mosquitoes from laying their eggs. Tree branches and shrubs must be kept groomed away from your walls so that bugs wouldn’t be migrating to your home.
Secure your home by sealing possible entry places
Securing your abode by sealing possible entry points can be a good way to stop harmful pests from occupying your home. These possible entry places can be anything that links your house to the outside such as windows, doors, vents, pipes and chimneys.
It is advised to attach a sturdy steel or aluminum threshold under the door and include a door sweep that can help cover the space between a threshold and the door bottom. Consider installing screens to your windows and doors to keep harmful insects away while not compromising fresh air from entering your home.
Clean your home
The best way to keep insects away from your home is to keep it clean. Trash bins must be covered and sealed. Also, make sure to sweep or vacuum regularly.
Keep dry
Keep your home as dry as possible. Watery areas can encourage pests to breed and drink. A leaky pipe beneath the sink or in the bathroom must be fixed immediately by calling a plumber. Damp places like basements and attics need to be dehumidified.
Maintain your yard regularly
Pest control must not be solely inside our homes but on the outside as well. Look for areas where water tends to be deposited in your yard and aerate the lawn. This will lessen the problem and let water to naturally soak up into the soil.
Regular drainage channels like gutters and drains must be maintained by keeping them free of any debris, leaves, and grass clippings. If your home has a swimming pool, keep it chlorinated even when it is out of commission or not in use. Also, replace the water of fountains and birdbaths at least twice a week to prevent them from becoming breeding grounds of mosquitoes.
Repair cracks immediately
Whenever cracks in your homes are discovered, fix them immediately. These cracks can serve as an entryway to your home for bugs and rodents. To strengthen foundations and masonry walls, apply mortar or cement to it. Remove damage bricks and replace them with new ones.
Rotting wood or trim must be replaced, and damaged sections of siding or cladding must be repaired or replaced. Make use of caulk to further seal your home and fix small cracks. You can also use caulk around window frames, foundations, and sidings.
Use natural remedies
Many homeowners opt to use natural prevention in dealing with harmful pests. To eliminate ants in your home, try to use vinegar when cleaning your cupboard. Ants can’t stand the smell of vinegar.
Aside from this, you can also use black pepper, red chili powder, turmeric, mint, and cinnamon since ants don’t like the smell of these spices. On the other hand, to get rid of cockroaches, make a do-it-yourself solution by mixing sugar or cocoa powder with borax or diatomaceous earth.
