Pest infestation has become a common problem these days. All of us have suffered through this problem at one time or other. Household pests like cockroaches, ants, lizards, rats, mosquitoes, bees, flies, bed bugs, termites, and others often invade our property during the summer season. A pest-free home is essential for a healthy and hygienic life. Severe infestations need professional treatment but some DIY methods can help eliminate pests out of your property. In this article, we will discuss various DIY methods and techniques to remove pests from your property.
Plants
Many plants can keep bugs at bay. Basil and Lavender can be planted to keep mosquitoes and flies away. Lavender smells great and basil also has medicinal properties. These plants can be grown in pots and kept indoors too. Other plants like lemongrass, marigold, mint, chrysanthemums, and garlic are also effective in keeping mosquitoes and other pests away from your property. These plants will make a cost-effective repellent and they also add to the beauty of your house. Their natural scent smells great and prevents bugs from entering your property. You can also use them in many other ways
Essential Oils
You can also keep the bugs away with essential oils. Many essential oils are effective repellents. Peppermint oil, citronella oil, lavender oil, eucalyptus oil, lemongrass oil, and tea tree oil are some of the best natural and safe methods to keep pests away. They are useful for repelling common household pests like mosquitoes, ants, ticks, cockroaches, and lizards. You can dilute them with water or other oils like coconut oil and almond oil and store them in a spray bottle. Make sure to shake well before use. Different essential oils are effective against different pests.
Food Items
There are many food items in your kitchen that can act as a pest repellent. Basil leaves, garlic, onion peels, and orange peels can be kept at the entry points to ward off pests from your premises. Other than this, spices like cayenne pepper, chives, bay leaves, cinnamon, and coffee powder can also be sprinkled on all surfaces where pests are present. This can stop them from infiltrating your property.
Natural Chemicals
There are two common natural chemicals used for pest control. These are Boric acid and Diatomaceous earth. If insects consume boric acid, it can kill them. It disrupts their stomach and affects their nervous system. It comes in gel and dust form. Likewise, diatomaceous earth is also effective against exoskeletal pests like fleas, cockroaches, silverfish, crickets, bed bugs, mites, and spiders.
Baits and Traps
Certain insects can be controlled using traps. They contain substances mixed with insecticides to kill them. Traps and baits are some effective methods of pest control. Sticky traps, beer traps, copper traps, and mesh screens on windows can keep pests at bay. Traps have some sticky adhesive coated on their surface so that pests get stuck to them. Later you can dispose of them far away.
Clean the Kitchen
Dirty and damp places are more susceptible to pests. The kitchen is one of the favorite spots for pests. You should keep the kitchen counter clean. Wipe drawers, cabinets, and gas stoves with disinfectant daily. Keep the food and other eatables covered. Any food particles lying in the open can attract more pests. Make sure that no food is scattered on the floor or kitchen counter. Clean the sink and pipes regularly. A clean kitchen will surely reduce pest infestation in your house.
Clean the Bathroom
Unlike your Kitchen, you should also keep your bathroom clean. Pests can enter your property through drainage pipes as well. Make sure to clean the pot frequently and clean your wash basin with effective bathroom cleaners. Also, check the drains are unblocked. If the drains are clogged, repair them quickly. Keep your toothbrushes covered to avoid infestations. Also, keep your shower curtain dry and free of moss. A clean and dry bathroom will prevent pests from entering your property.
Do not allow water to stand.
Any stagnant water is dangerous for your health. Pests like mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Do not keep your bathroom bucket filled with water. You should also not store water in other vessels. Avoid vessels to collect your AC water, if you do then do not forget to empty it frequently. It’s better to use pipes to carry away the water as soon as possible. Remove the water in pots and coconut shells and bottles in your surroundings for better pest control.
Dispose of the Garbage regularly
Garbage accumulation in your home can lead to attracting pests like rats, cockroaches, and flies. It is important to dispose of garbage daily to keep pests out of your property.
Do not keep fruits and vegetables outside for long
It is important to store fruits and vegetables properly in your refrigerator or keep them covered. Overripe fruits and vegetables can attract pests. Also, never keep any cut fruits and vegetables in the open. Either cover them or store them in the refrigerator.
De-Clutter Your House
Disposing of unwanted and unused articles is an important trick to keep pests at bay. Every house has unwanted things like books, newspapers, clothes, toys, and other unused items. This clutter can become a hiding place for pests and this will only accumulate dust. It is better to remove the clutter as soon as possible.
Fix Nets on Windows
Some pests like mosquitoes, cockroaches, flies, spiders, and lizards can enter your home through windows. We can’t always keep the windows closed as we need sunlight and fresh air inside the house. So, it is better to fix nets on the windows to stop pests from entering your property.
Maintain Your Garden
A well-maintained garden is important to prevent pests. Fill the pits and holes in the garden so that water does not accumulate. Have the fountain or pond in the garden clean.
Keep items of external use outside the House
Keep cleaning items like brooms, buckets, mops, shoes, and objects used for gardening outside the house. Make sure to not use them for indoor purposes. If required, thoroughly clean them before using them inside the house. This is because pests can accompany these objects and enter your house. Also, keep kids cycles and battery-operated cars out of the house.
Conclusion
The above-mentioned tips and tricks will only help to reduce pests for a short period. Well, taking a proactive approach through DIY methods will help in mild infestations and these methods will also help in preventing the pests to invade your property. You can protect your home from pests by implementing DIY tips and tricks for pest control. However, we recommend you hire professional pest control services for severe infestations.
