While you'll need to call on the help of a pest control service if your home becomes infested with insects, rodents, or other nuisances, prevention is the best option. There are many natural ways that you can keep your home pest-free.
Not only will keeping your home's pest control in check save you money by not having to call the pros in, it'll also help you reduce household toxins. Once you get any type of infestation, chemical-laden pesticides will need to be used. Even if you're using a natural technique to prevent, it's a good idea to have vulnerable areas of your home, such as around doorways and in garages, treated by professionals on a regular basis to prevent nuisances.
While keeping your home clean and clutter-free year-round is one of the best pest deterrents, you'll need to pay attention to seasonal critters as well. Some pests, such as termites and cockroaches, are most likely to infest your house more at certain times of the year than others. Taking the necessary precautions before the first insect or rodent enters your home is the goal.
Here are some things that you can do to keep pests out of your home without the use of harsh chemicals.
1. Keep a Tidy Home
Although keeping your house clean and tidy may seem like a simple pest control technique, it's highly effective. For instance, keep dirty dishes out of the sink or dishwasher to prevent inviting insects, such as cockroaches and maggots, in. Make it a habit to wash your dishes right away after each meal and to run your dishwasher as soon as it's full.
Another way to prevent bugs in the kitchen is by keeping all food in air-tight containers. As an example, pour your cereal into plastic containers rather than storing them in their cardboard boxes in the pantry. You can store almost any dry goods, including rice, pasta and beans, this way.
Also, be sure to wipe down all surfaces, such as countertops and tables, that came in contact with food. Tie your garbage bags tightly and bring them outside everyday.
2. Avoid Bedbugs
Bedbugs are another type of pest that are very difficult to get rid of once an infestation starts. You can prevent this naturally by not bringing your own blankets and pillows to a hotel, and if you do, washing them in hot water right when you get home.
Also, avoid buying used mattresses and other types of bedding, which can be breeding grounds for the pesky critters.
For more information, get in touch with companies like Albemarle Termite & Pest Control.