Pests are a big nuisance. Regardless of the animal, the common issue is that their presence damages property and pets.
Some pests, like raccoons and snakes, can even harm humans. So, what to do about those?
Well, this is a problem around the globe. But let’s take the example of South Carolina. Common pests that damage property here are raccoons, flies, ants, mosquitoes, snakes, rodents, cockroaches, ticks, and spiders.
In the case of snakes, we recommend contacting a professional snake control agency, as handling them without any help could have serious consequences. There are 6 venomous snakes in SC, of which 3 snakes’ venom can lead to death if not treated. So, getting professional help is better than catching them yourself.
Pests technically refer to all unwanted species. However, they are commonly limited to mosquitoes, cockroaches, and flies. Below, we discuss some effective ways to manage these pests in your home.
Regardless of the species you are dealing with, these tips are a must to follow. For professional help, you must contact a reputable wildlife control agency.
DIY Pest control at home
Protect food sources
This is one of the most common reasons species invade your house. If you have not stored the food properly or there are a lot of food sources, even spoiled food and trash, pests are highly likely to visit your house.
Regardless of the food type, you must protect it from pests. Make sure to use steel or glass containers to store food. Choose containers with tight lids.
Try to keep utensils containing food away from ants, cockroaches, and flies. If possible, keep them in cabinets for extra protection. Clean the utensils regularly, as pests have a strong sense of smell. Protect sugary items especially.
You should also care for pets’ food as it attracts many animals and rodents. Clean the pet bowl regularly to clean the smell.
Clean your kitchen regularly. If possible, use a natural repellent where pests are often present. More on this later. Forpest control, it’s important to implement these steps to reduce their attraction to your home.
Invest in a good trash bin
Trash bins are a great source of food for animals. Stray cats, dogs, and raccoons will likely mess up the bin, leaving it for you to clean. So, why not invest some dollars in a good bin with a strong lid?
Sure, this will protect the trash and stop the smell. The messed-up trash can also attract American black bears. So, you must consider it a serious issue.
Regularly dispose of trash to reduce food sources for annoying pests. Also, clean the bin regularly to reduce the smell. Look for signs of leakage if present there.
Sweep the house daily
Cleaning is very important. Spend time sweeping your house to ensure a healthy and pest-free environment.
Also, clean small entrances, holes, pipes, and other places where pests are more likely to stay. Laundry detergents are good for sweeping floors as they contain enzymes to clean the smell and dirt that might not be removed from the water.
The traces and stains of food will likely attract ants and cockroaches. The detergent will do the job of cleaning those traces of food. In short, spend some time daily to ensure proper house cleaning. Pests will find your place less attractive to live in.
Use repellants
If you know the use of natural repellents, you are done with pest control. Pests have a strong sense of smell which looks like a superpower. This helps them find the food you have kept hidden from them.
This superpower is quite frustrating for humans, but what about using their power to your advantage? Let me explain how you can do so.
Peppermint has a strong scent, which is good for us to smell. But this smell will be a big nuisance for them. The strong smells of anything will work well.
There are several pest repellents available on the market. But why not use natural ones when available in your kitchen? This is cost-effective and safe for your pets and family.
Some suggestions are:
- Coffee beans
- Vinegar
- Basil
- Lavender
- Garlic
- Neem Oil
- Chili peppers
- Cinnamon
You can use the smell of these items by spreading them near entrances, pipes, holes, and possible places of pest occurrence.
Some animal urine can also deter pests, but this might be difficult and not feel good. So, you should use natural repellents to be on the safe side.
Close small entrances and holes
Small holes or unnecessary openings in your walls can encourage various animals to seek shelter. Raccoons, squirrels, cats, rabbits, rats, and small rodents look for these openings to enter a house.
If there are small cracks, use caulk to avoid getting ants ruining your food. For small holes, add some random material there and close it with a strong filler. If there are wood piles, warm them with something so nothing can enter here.
What to do if nothing works?
The tips described in this article should help you eliminate common pests in your house. One of the most effective techniques to deter pests is using natural repellents.
Their strong smell will disturb small insects and rodents. But what about other animals that are not getting affected by these tips?
In that case, you need a professional wildlife control agency to help you cope with pests on your property and develop a clever plan to ensure a pest-free environment.
They also provide a thorough inspection service for a property to look for the signs of pests and nuisance animals. No matter what animal you are dealing with, these guys can help you get rid of them.
So, for peace of mind and proper protection, you should contact a pest control agency. But before that, you can follow the instructions described to see if they work. If the situation is out of control or worsening, seek professional help.