The earth is home to 10 quintillion individual insects at any given time. That’s 10, followed by 18 zeroes.
The majority (as in 99%) of those insects are beneficial to the environment. Some, like bees, are crucial for pollination. Many others, such as beetles and worms, nourish the soil by breaking down matter.
Unfortunately, the remaining 1% of insects fall under the category of pests. They kill plants and produce, destroy forests, and bring diseases to other creatures. The latter includes beneficial insects, other animals, and yes, humans.
The good news is that some pest control tactics can help keep them from invading your home in the first place. Most of these are methods you can do on your own.
Ready to learn all about these first-line defense strategies against pest infestations? Then let’s get this list started!
1. Know Thy Enemy
There are now about 500 pesticide-resistant species of insects, mites, and spiders. This means that common pesticides can no longer bring their populations under control. No matter how much pesticide you use, these pests will survive if you use a product they’ve grown resistant to.
For that reason, it’s vital you first get to know the most prolific pests in your area. This way, you’ll have an idea as to which pest control method still works for the species likely to invade your home. Fast Action Pest Control has a gallery page that you can check out for a closer look at some of these common pests.
Note, too, that the effectiveness of pest control depends on accurate pest identification. For example, rodent baits aren’t effective for controlling or eradicating cockroaches. Insect repellents, such as those for mosquitoes, don’t work on bed bugs, either.
2. Secure Food in Tight-Sealing Containers
Animals, including pests, have certain senses that set them apart from humans. For example, experts estimate that mice have about ten million olfactory sensory neurons. Those neurons allow them to analyze the air for specific odors, such as the smell of food.
As such, one of the best techniques on how to get rid of mice (and other pests) is to keep these odors under control. For example, you can keep packaged food in containers with tight lids. Never leave cooked food out in the open, either, as these are pest magnets.
3. Patch up Plumbing Leaks
Plumbing leaks in US homes waste an average of 10,000 gallons a year. Aside from wasting natural and financial resources, leaks also attract pests.
That’s because pests are living creatures, so they also need moisture to survive. So, if your home has leaking pipes, it gives pests everything they need: food, water, and shelter.
Therefore, fixing up leaks is one of the easiest do-it-yourself pest control strategies.
4. Seal Gaps
Cockroaches have such flexible bodies that they can enter the tiniest cracks. For example, the American roach can squeeze in through a gap as small as three millimeters high. So, if a roach can do that, it makes sense that anything else smaller can also enter through that hole.
So, for your DIY pest control project, get all those gaps in windows and doors sealed. Don’t forget to patch up cable holes with cords that run from the outside, too. Window screens and weatherstripping can also help you keep those critters out.
Implement These Pest Control Strategies Today
Pests don’t have all the time in the world, so once they find a way to enter your home, they won’t hesitate. Once inside, they’ll feast on your food, destroy your stuff, and multiply. That’s why, as early as today, be sure to follow all the pest control tips we’ve discussed in this guide.
Interested in more guides to keep your home safe, healthy, and pest-free? Feel free to browse our many other educational resources then!
