It doesn’t matter what kind of home one stays in—apartments, penthouses, villas, or a rustic looking cottage by the countryside, the threat of pests is often overlooked but very real. Prevention being better than cure certainly applies to pest control: insects, rodents, and raccoons are more than capable of doing a number on any property if left unchecked and managed. Here are some tips and tricks that will come in handy when it comes to pest control around the home.
Identify the pest
Treat the root of the problem, and not just the symptom. Identifying pests is the first step, as this will allow the right control methods to be put in place. Once the pest has been identified, it is advisable to learn everything possible about it. This includes knowing at which part of the pest’s life cycle it is most vulnerable, its potential weaknesses and dislikes, and perhaps even point of entry to the home, foods they are attracted to, and living environments they thrive.
Weighing the “attack” strategy
The majority of pest problems can be managed without having to resort to potentially toxic pesticides. Non-chemical methods are often recommended at all times unless the situation calls for more extreme measures. Some of the methods in preventing pests from ruining your household are pretty straightforward. It can be as simple as getting rid of food or shelter that attracts such pests. Another great pest control solution is to seal up all points of entry such as crevices and cracks, or even window seals. You can also sprinkle boric acid as part of an ant trap. Sometimes bringing nature into the home can attract pests, however nature also has pesticides of its own. If you have a small garden, or like plants around the home, or just hate bugs, the following plants are natural insect repellent:
- Basil- repels house flies and mosquitoes
- Lavender- repels moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitoes
- Lemongrass/ Lemon Thyme/ Mint/ Rosemary- Repels Mosquitoes
In the event where a pesticide is required, make sure that the right pesticide is used. A person should have the proper protective gear as specified, all the while maintaining a high level of hygiene after applying the pesticide. It is also prudent to separate the application site from all humans, pets, toys, and food & drink utensils. Once done, ensure that all pesticides are kept safely locked away and out of reach of children and pets. Dispose the pesticide container properly once it is finished.
Some of the methods in preventing pests from ruining a home are pretty straightforward. It can be as simple as getting rid of food or shelter that attracts such pests. Another great way is to seal all points of entry such as crevices and cracks. One can also enlist nature as an ally, enrolling the help of pest-resistant plants around the home or garden.
If all else fails…
Of course, if all else fails, do contact the nearest reliable pest exterminator to provide a lasting solution for any unwanted guests around the property. At the very least, the pest issue will no longer be there to plague the homeowner with rotting pillars, damaged roofs, and other kinds of problems that can develop into a health hazard for all who live under the same roof, while affecting the structural integrity of the home.