Summer is a favorite season for most of us, but pests also seem to love our homes during this season, with cockroaches, mosquitoes, and termites topping the list of these notorious, unwanted guests. While some, like cockroaches, are good at hiding, they leave a trail of mess and damage in their wake. Pests like ants, on the other hand, destroy in silence, only for you to realize when too much damage has been done. Are you tired of pests taking refuge in your home? Here are six ways to prevent pest infestation in your home this summer. Â
1. Use pest control products
If you notice signs of pest activity in your home, consider consulting a pest-control professional like Fox Pest Control to recommend the best pesticides to use. Early intervention can go a long way in preventing pests from multiplying and causing more damage.
2. Declutter your home
Keeping your home neat and organized can help to keep the pests away. Pests love hiding under ‘forgotten’ items, and more clutter creates a better breeding environment. Ensure you get rid of anything you don’t need to keep your spaces clear and accessible to discourage pests like cockroaches, ants, or spiders from invading your home.Â
3. Keep your home clean
Dirt, dust, and debris make a great breeding ground for insects. Keeping your home clean is the easiest way to make it a pest-free environment. The best cleaning policy is to clean as you go. For instance, cleaning the countertops after meal preparation or washing the dishes immediately discourages the breeding of cockroaches, as no food particles are left behind for them to feast on.
Ensure you also vacuum countertops, floors, tables, and shelves regularly to prevent the build-up of dirt in hard-to-reach gaps and spaces. On the same note, always keep your trash cans covered with airtight lids, as well as empty and clean them regularly. In addition, ensure you keep your compound clean and the plants, trees, and grass trimmed. Do not leave any debris in your yard.Â
4. Keep your pets clean
Grooming your pets regularly can go a long way in keeping some pests, like fleas, from multiplying your home. Fleas can reproduce quickly, and once they start laying eggs inside the house, getting rid of them may be a total nightmare.  Â
5. Seal cracks
Cracks are pests’ favorite hiding places. Ensure you seal any crevices on your windows, doors, or walls, inspect pipes, and keep an eye on the chimney, attic, and basement, as insects and rodents can easily crawl in and breed.
6. Store your food in sealed containers
Ensure you store your foods in airtight containers always to discourage pests from breeding. Always inspect dry foodstuff, like bunches of bananas, before storing them as some will ferry pests from the farms to stores and into your home.
Endnote
Pests love inviting themselves into our homes and wreaking havoc during summer. You can keep them out altogether by keeping your home clean, sealing cracks, and decluttering. You can also starve them by storing your foods in airtight containers.