Cheap Ways to Get Rid of Household Pests

You may desperately want a way to get rid of household pests that doesn’t cost you a small fortune. Whether it be bed bugs, fleas, cockroaches, or mice, most homes are plagued with many household pests all year long.

One can limit the number of some pests, while we can eradicate others through simple natural remedies and proper cleaning routines. In severe cases, you will have no other alternative than to call in the pros.

Creepy crawlies that squeak at night are a homemaker’s worst nightmare. Fortunately, there are tried and tested methods to discourage home infestations. Some ways may involve spraying while other methods would suffice.

Mosquito Control

What comes to mind is a plant that goes by the name – catnip. Your cat will love it while mosquitoes detest it. You can grow the plant in your garden and once it’s ready, apply catnip oil to your skin and experience protection for up to two hours.

Eliminate Dust Mites

Cinnamon bark oil is very effective for controlling dust mites. The way to do it is to mix drops of it into a 50/50 solution that comprises denatured alcohol and water. Then, you can spray your carpets, bedding, and any other area where dust collects.

How to Get Rid of Flies

Flies detest the smell of basil. Place a few pots here and there, like your kitchen counter, windowsill, and doorways. Alternatively, you can make use of dried base in a small muslin pouch and rub it occasionally to ensure the scent remains potent.

Flies breed extremely fast, to the tune of hundred eggs being laid on food or elsewhere at one time. To discourage such behavior, keep all food, which includes pet food, and leftovers, covered. We should discard any food that had flies on it.

Another effective technique to control flies is to trap them with sticky paper. Flyscreens will keep them from entering your home.

Getting Rid of Bedbugs

One will rarely come across bedbugs in your own home. When you move into a rental home that is already furnished, then it’s something you might have to deal with.

The best advice we can give you when you find them living in your mattress is to buy a new one. These critters are very hard to get rid of and often require the intervention of a specialist contractor. Also, they are known for infesting other places, such as your laundry, furniture, and luggage. Be sure to treat your luggage once you return from your holiday home.

Fleas

They are generally brought into your house by your cat or dog as they have a tendency to feed on dirt and suck the animal’s blood. While they are not harmful, it is annoying to deal with itchy skin.

One female can lay up to 20 eggs at a time. Make a point of delousing your pets and thoroughly vacuum your carpets, soft furnishings, and curtains. Use pet-friendly vacuums for this purpose.

Fleas, on the other hand, can be controlled by placing copious amounts of salt and then making use of a powerful vacuum to kill their eggs. However, these bugs reproduce in only three days’ time. Therefore, you have to be diligent in your efforts to get rid of them. Spread enough salt on your flooring every day for nine days, and vacuum every third day.

Get Rid of Cockroaches

Cockroaches thrive in warm and wet climates. They may cross your path in cooler places where food is left out, especially if there is food nearby. Cockroaches make a habit of nesting in warm, dark places near drains and under floors. They leave harmful bacteria behind wherever they walk. This may lead to food poisoning, which is why you need to do what it takes to get rid of them.

All the more reason you should definitely consider getting yourself the best roach killer. Doing so will ensure you deal with them swiftly.

How to Control Moths

Closets and wardrobes offer the perfect habitat for moths. On closer investigation, you’ll discover they have their own particular material preferences. Also, their larvae lead to different damages to materials and fabrics.

You will know they are present when you notice:

• Irregular-shaped holes in some of your fabrics.
• Damages to animal-based materials, such as leather and feathers.
• Sometimes, you may note that your food has been tampered with, which is a sign that you are dealing with white-shouldered house moths.

How can one solve moth infestations?

There are numerous do-it-yourself moth products on the market. These will only control small infestations. We are talking about traps, balls, and sprays that you would hang in your closets or wardrobes to safeguard your belongings.

How to Get Rid of Mice and Rats

It might be an idea to attract barn owls to your property as they easily eat over 3,000 mice during nesting season. You would use an owl box during instances where a tree crook or quiet rafter is not available.

Both mice and rats would make their way into your home to seek warmth and food. At times, they need to escape rising water levels in sewers and will find protection in your home.

How do you know you have mice and rats around?

Most times, you will detect:

• A powerful ammonia stench.
• Scrabbling noises.
• Grease marks on your skirting boards and walls.
• Tail and footprints in the dust, such as an attic or basement.
• Visible signs of pellet-like droppings. Mice will have spindle-shaped droppings while rats have darker ones.

Rodents will damage your property as they gnaw on just about everything in sight. Not to mention, that they’ll contaminate foodstuffs and other surfaces with their urine and feces.

One of the greatest ways to get rid of mice is by getting the best mousetrap. Modern versions have evolved so much that they effectively control mice infestations. It is well worth looking into.

Getting rid of household pests at your earliest convenience is in your best interest for the sake of your health and your family.

Resources – Bob Vila, Real Homes, Greatist