Summer is here, and so are the pesky insects that can invade our homes. It can seem like a never ending battle against the bugs! Learn how to keep your home safe from summer insects with these simple tips. Stay proactive and make your home a haven from unwanted guests with these tips!
Summer is a wonderful time of year to enjoy the great outdoors, but unfortunately, it’s also a time when pests and insects can wreak havoc on your home. Not only are they a nuisance, but they can also carry diseases and cause damage to your property. Plus, the pain of stings and bites when you’re in the comfort of your own home is something I’m sure we would all ratehr avoid.
Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to keep your home safe from summer pests and insects. Let’s discuss some of the most effective ways to prevent pests such as rodents and insects from invading your home this summer.
How Do You Keep Summer Bugs Away?
The key to keeping pests and insects out of your home is to be proactive. Don’t wait until summer pests have already gotten into your home to lay eggs and have had time to hatch to take action.
Instead, take preventive measures to keep them from getting into your home in the first place. There are many things you can do to keep your home safe from pests and insects, from simple things like keeping your windows and doors closed or making sure you have no stagnant water nearby to more complex measures like using insect repellent or pest repellents and hiring a summer pest control service.
What Attracts Summer Bugs?
First and foremost, make sure that your home is clean and tidy. The most common pests and insects like fruit flies, bees and house flies, are attracted to food – especially sweets – , water, and shelter, so by eliminating these things, you can help keep them out of your home.
Make sure to clean up spills and crumbs immediately, and store food in airtight containers. Don’t forget to clean out crevices that are easily forgotten such as between your stove and countertop. Don’t leave pet food out overnight, and make sure your trash cans are tightly sealed. It’s also a good idea to declutter your home and get rid of any unnecessary items, as these can provide hiding places for pests and insects. Spiders and roaches especially love the dark spaces that excess clutter can provide them.
Another important step to take is to seal up any entry points into your home. Check for gaps around doors and windows, and make sure to seal them up with caulk or weather stripping.
Install window screens and screen doors to keep out flying insects, and use door sweeps to keep crawling insects such as fire ants from getting in. Don’t forget to check for gaps around pipes, electrical wiring, and other entry points, as these can provide easy access for pests and insects. If you have any noticeable gaps, use a foam such as Great Stuff Spray Foam to fill them in quickly.
You may also want to consider buying a borax solution for bugs to place around the foundation of your home. This will often deter them quite a bit although you will want to be mindful of pets and children before using it.
When Should I Seek Help for a Pest Problem?
If you’re still having problems with pests and insects after taking these preventive measures, it may be time to bring in a professional pest control expert. A pest control service can help identify the source of your pest problem and provide targeted treatment to eliminate them.
They can also provide ongoing preventive maintenance to keep pests and insects from coming back in the future. Make sure to choose a reputable pest control service, and ask about their methods and products to ensure that they are safe for your family and pets.
How Do I Keep Bugs Out Of My House in the Summer Naturally?
In addition to these preventive measures, there are also a number of natural pest control methods that you can try. For example, many pests and insects are repelled by certain plants and herbs, such as lavender, mint, and marigolds. Plant these around the perimeter of your home to help keep pests and insects at bay.
You can also try using essential oils, such as peppermint or lemon, to repel insects. Simply mix a few drops of the oil with water and spray around doors, windows, and other entry points.
Another natural pest control method is to use diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous Earth has a ton of uses but insect control is one of the best. This natural substance is made from fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae. It is safe for humans and pets, but can be deadly to insects. Simply sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your home, or in areas where pests and insects are likely to congregate.
What Insects Are Common in the Summer?
Finally, it’s important to be aware of the specific pests and insects that are common in your area. Different regions have different pest problems, so it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. This will help you choose the most effective preventive measures and pest control methods.
Some common summer pests and insects include wasp and their nests, hornets, yellow jackets centipedes, mosquitoes, ants, termites, fleas, ticks, and flies. Each of these pests requires a different approach to control, so it’s important to do your research and understand the specific methods and products that will work best for each type of pest.
For example, mosquitoes should be controlled because they can carry West Nile Virus or the Zika virus. They can be controlled by eliminating standing water, which is where they breed. This means getting rid of any containers that hold water, such as buckets, flowerpots, and bird baths. You can also use mosquito repellents, such as homemade citronella candles or a DIY bug spray, to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Ticks can be a major problem during the summer months, as they can carry Lyme disease and other serious illnesses. To prevent ticks from getting into your home, make sure to keep your lawn well-maintained and free of debris. You can also use tick repellents on yourself and your pets when spending time outdoors.
Keeping your home safe from summer pests and insects requires a combination of preventive measures, natural pest control methods, and targeted pest control treatments. Keeping your home clean and tidy, sealing up entry points, and using natural pest control methods, can reduce the likelihood of pests and insects invading your home. If you’re still having problems, consider bringing in a professional pest control service to provide targeted treatment and ongoing maintenance. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a pest-free summer and protect your family and property from the dangers of pests and insects.
