Pests can be a significant problem for homeowners, causing damage to property and posing a health risk to residents. In the midwest United States, common pests include ants, spiders, rats, mice, termites, cockroaches, and mosquitoes. Below are some tips to help keep your home pest-free in 2023.
Keep Your Home Clean and Tidy
The first and most crucial step in preventing pests is to keep your home clean and tidy. Homeowners should regularly clean up food crumbs, wash dishes, and sweep and mop floors. It’s also essential to store food in airtight containers and dispose of garbage regularly. Additionally, make sure to vacuum and dust regularly to eliminate any potential hiding spots for pests.
Seal Cracks and Holes in Your Home
Another critical step in preventing pests is to seal any cracks and holes in your home that could allow pests to enter. You may have cracks around windows, doors, and pipes. You can use silicone caulk or weather stripping to seal any gaps, making it much harder for pests to get inside. Sealing cracks and holes prevents crumbs or trash from falling into these small spaces, which could also attract pests.
Use Natural Pest Control Methods
There are many natural pest control methods that you can use to prevent pests from entering your home. For example, you can use essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, or lemon to repel pests. You can diffuse the oil or sprinkle it around your home to keep pests at bay. Another natural method is diatomaceous earth, a powder made from crushed fossilized algae that are deadly to pests like ants, roaches, and spiders. Sprinkle it around the perimeter of your home and any areas where pests are known to enter. These methods are a step in the right direction, but they will not stop a full-on infestation.
Keep Your Yard Clean and Tidy
In addition to keeping your home clean and tidy, it’s also essential to keep your yard clean and tidy. Homeowners should remove any piles of leaves, branches, and other debris that could provide hiding spots for pests. Keep your grass trimmed and eliminate any standing water, which could provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes. If you have a garden, you can watch for signs of pests eating the plants and be sure these pests don’t make their way inside.
Store Firewood Away From Your Home
Firewood is a common source of pests like termites and ants, so storing it away from your home is important. If you have a wood pile near your home, ensure it’s located at least 20 feet from the foundation. Additionally, store firewood off the ground and away from any walls to prevent pests from using it as a bridge to enter your home.
Call a Professional Pest Control Company
Call a professional pest control company if you’re having trouble keeping pests out of your home. These companies have the expertise and equipment to eliminate pests and prevent them from returning. A professional pest control company can also provide regular inspections to ensure your home stays pest-free.
Regularly Inspect Your Home for Signs of Pests
Finally, homeowners should regularly inspect their homes for signs of pests. This means looking for droppings, damage, or other evidence that pests are present. If you find any signs of pests, immediately prevent them from spreading and causing more damage.
In conclusion, keeping your home pest-free in 2023 requires a combination of preventative measures, including keeping your home and yard clean and tidy, sealing cracks and holes, using natural pest control methods, and calling a professional pest control company if necessary. By following these tips, you can protect your home from pests and ensure your family stays safe and healthy.
PestShield Is Here to Help
Look no further than PestShield for all of your pest control needs. We are known for our in-wall pest control technology that many homes in the Greater St. Louis area have, and we also have traditional pest control services. Contact us today!