Pest ControlCommon household pest problems and their solutions

Common household pest problems and their solutions

Pests are a nuisance that can cause many problems if left unchecked. Some pests, such as rats, rodents, and cockroaches, lead to food contamination which inadvertently causes food poisoning. Other types of pests, such as bed bugs and insects, aggravate skin conditions. It can cause allergies and skin problems, including rashes and redness.

pest problems

You may be tempted to reach out for the bug spray to kill the bugs then and there. However, bug sprays and chemicals are often toxic to the environment and can lead to allergic reactions in some instances. Although mosquito repellents containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) are effective, they can cause eye and skin irritation. In extreme cases, it may lead to rashes and even blisters.

Hence, if you have a pest problem, the solution is to hire a pest control service. Such services not only identify the pest but also remove them from your home. In addition to this, pest control services take preventative measures to ensure that your house does not face a pest problem again. 

As summer rolls over, we must prepare to deal with pests. However, if you want to avoid hiring pest services, you can take a few steps to prevent a pest infestation in the first place. Some of the common pests found in our homes are as follows. 

Bedbugs

A bedbug is a small insect that sucks on blood. Since these bugs cannot fly, an infestation spreads when an infected surface comes into contact with another. A bedbug can grow up to 1 cm in length. Bedbug eggs are hard to discern because they are small in size, about 1 mm in length. A bite from a bedbug can cause allergic reactions in some people. Using antiseptic creams and lotions can help alleviate the skin condition. 

To prevent a bedbug infestation in your house, you should try to keep the bedding and mattress clean. Use a plastic covering to cover the mattress that is not in use. Also, vacuum the mattress regularly to remove bedbugs. If you are buying furniture, check it for a bedbug before you make a purchase.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches have been around for about four million years and are a common pest problem in households. The German cockroach is the most common type of pest found in a home. These cockroaches can grow up to 1.6 cm in length. Roaches feed on food leftovers, which are present in the kitchen. Cockroaches thrive in damp conditions and multiply quickly. They contaminate food by excreting on it. Sometimes, using a spray will not solve the problem of a cockroach infestation. You must handle these pests before it leads to a full-blown infestation.

The best way to avoid a cockroach infestation is to clean the kitchen and the bathroom regularly. Do not leave leftovers on the countertops. Store them in containers with a proper seal. Cockroaches will also feed on garbage. So make sure that the garbage bin has a lid.  

Also, seal any cracks and crevices using caulk to prevent cockroaches from entering the house. In addition to this, place a mesh on holes and drains. That way, cockroaches do not crawl out of them.

Rats and rodents

Rats and rodents are other common pests that invade homes. Rats can feed on scraps and leftover food. Hence, human establishments provide ample food for them to live. Thus, rats contaminate food and are known for spreading various viruses. In addition to this, rats can eat through electrical wiring, damaging the infrastructure of the house. Rats can hide in attics, basements, and air vents. There are different types of rats and mice, including house mice, deer mice, Norway rats, etc. The difference between a rat and a mouse is that a rat is larger in length. Some rats, such as roof rats, can climb houses and live in attics. They can even climb trees. 

Taking preventative measures is the best way to prevent a rat infestation. Make sure to seal all entryways. Use mesh where necessary. Make sure that your garbage container is sealed and has a lid. Drain the water from the roof gutters and other places. 

A pest control service can help catch and get rid of rats and mice in your home. They can set up traps and use various products to kill and remove these pests.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are small insects that prey on human blood. A mosquito bite can leave a rash on the skin. The site of a mosquito bite can itch. These insects can spread diseases, such as malaria. Mosquitoes lay their larvae in standing water. Hence, one way to prevent mosquitoes is to drain all standing water to stop them from breeding.

Conclusion

These are some of the most common pests found in homes. By taking precautions and preventive measures, we can protect our homes and our health.

Heather Jones
Heather Jones
Hello! I'm Heather Jones, a dedicated writer and expert in the fields of DIY projects, home improvement, and emergency preparedness. With over 15 years of hands-on experience, I'm committed to sharing practical tips and tricks to help you make the most out of your home and life.

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