Got unwanted guests crawling around? You don’t need a pricey service to deal with most pests. A few everyday habits can stop insects, rodents, and bugs before they become a problem.
First, know who you’re up against. Ants love sweet crumbs, flies hang out near garbage, cockroaches hide in damp corners, and mice look for food and shelter. Spotting the signs – tiny droppings, gnaw marks, or a faint rustle in the wall – helps you choose the right approach.
When you see a pest, write down where you found it and how often it appears. That simple log tells you if the issue is isolated or spreading, and it gives a professional a clear picture if you ever need one.
Seal entry points. Check windows, doors, and baseboards for cracks. Caulk gaps and use weather‑stripping – it’s cheap and blocks most insects and mice.
Keep food stored in airtight containers. Even a tiny spill can attract ants or roaches. Wipe countertops after meals and sweep floors daily. A clean kitchen is the hardest place for pests to settle.
Take care of moisture. Fix leaky pipes, empty pet water bowls at night, and run a dehumidifier in damp rooms. Moisture attracts cockroaches and silverfish, so a dry home is a safer home.
If you spot a small infestation, try DIY traps. Sugar‑water traps work for ants, while a mix of baking soda and sugar can kill pantry pests. For mice, snap traps or humane catch‑and‑release traps are effective when placed along walls.
When chemicals are needed, choose the least toxic options. Use baits rather than sprays, and keep them out of reach of children and pets. Always read the label and follow the instructions.
Regular maintenance matters. Clean out gutters, trim back trees that touch the house, and move wood piles away from the foundation. These steps remove hidden shelters that pests love.
If the problem grows despite your efforts, call a professional. Make sure they are licensed and ask for a clear plan before any treatment starts.
Staying pest‑free is mostly about consistency. A quick daily sweep, a monthly inspection, and sealing any new cracks keep your home comfortable and bug‑free without breaking the bank.
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