Cockroaches, ants, mice, and a host of other pests can infest your home almost before you realize anything is happening. There are do-it-yourself solutions that are usually effective at getting rid of household pests. An advantage of DIY pest control methods is that many use natural ingredients, so you don’t have to worry about the toxic effects of chemical pesticides. You can also hire professionals who provide environmentally friendly pest control. For example, if you’re in the Phoenix area do a quick search for “AZ pest control” to find alternative pest control solutions for your household pests.
Remove Pest Magnets
Mosquitoes and other insects are drawn to water during hot or dry weather. You can discourage pests from taking up residence in your household by removing any open containers of standing water. Food will attract rodents, raccoons and insects as much as a source of water. If you use dry pet food, transfer the food from paper bags or boxes to plastic containers with airtight lids. Make sure trash cans have lids that seal completely.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a powder composed of fossilized microorganisms. It is harmless to people and warm-blooded animals. In fact, it is used as an additive for livestock feed. Diatomaceous earth is deadly to insects. For pest control, use food-grade diatomaceous earth. Sprinkle some around windows, doors, and other openings to get rid of pests.
DIY and Spray
If you have an ant problem, fill a spray bottle with a mixture of 50 percent vinegar and 50 percent water. Do a little detective work by tracing the ants’ path back to the point where they entered your home. Spray this area and other access points. Let the spray sit for a few minutes before wiping it up. You may need to repeat this process for a few days.
Discouraging Mice
Mice are repelled by the smell of peppermint. You can often get rid of them by putting a few drops of peppermint oil on cotton balls. Place the cotton balls near doors, windows, and other places where mice may get in. If you’re experiencing an infestation, do a quick internet search for “mice exterminator near me“, to find a professional in your area.
Herbal Pest Control
Many insects cannot tolerate certain herbs. Mix vinegar with lavender, sage, mint, catnip, or thyme. You can use more than one kind if you find it’s more effective. Spray the mixture around baseboards, doors, and windows. You can also plant these herbs around your house to discourage pests from moving in.
Conclusion
Sometimes an infestation of some pest is so severe that DIY methods are not effective. If this happens, it’s probably time to call a pest control company. When the technician arrives, ask him how to prevent pests from returning. Reputable pest control companies routinely provide this type of advice to customers.
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