The process of General Home Pest Control includes 3 basic but essential elements that are beneficial to every pest control effort: Sanitation, Exclusion, and Chemical Pest Control Products. If you have problems with common household pests such as ants, cockroaches, fleas or ladybugs, or simply desire to prevent future infestations from occurring, there are great benefits to be had from following these basic methods of do it yourself home pest control.
1) Sanitation
Pests of all kinds require food and water that is found throughout our homes as a result of crumbs, food spills, leaky faucets, and standing water. In addition to food and water, a large number of insect pests also require some form of filth-mold, mildew, damp organic material, rotting debris-in which to live and breed. Sanitation in pest control is about making your environment more fit for you, and less fit for pests.
- Keep the kitchen area clean, especially the area under, behind, and alongside appliances that are often neglected.
- Keep food in sealed containers, including pet food that may be stored outside.
- Keep garbage stored in cans or receptacles with tight fitting lids.
- Take out the trash often and clean the can with ammonia on a regular basis.
- Do not leave standing water in the sink.
- Linens should be washed regularly with hot water, and then properly stored with moth balls if necessary.
- Leaky pipes can cause moisture and mold problems and should be fixed promptly.
- Keep the bathroom area clean and free of mold and mildew as much as possible.
2) Exclusion
Another essential element of general home pest control is exclusion-keeping pests outside of your home strategically eliminating points and methods of entry.
- Maintain window screens and doors to exclude flying insect pests.
- Repair door sweeps to exclude crawling insects such as cockroaches or pillbugs.
- Repair any large openings and holes in foundation walls to exclude larger animal pests such as raccoons and squirrels.
- Repair smaller cracks and crevices in foundation walls (using heavy duty caulk)
- Remove debris near the side of the home, including piles of leaves, lumber and firewood piles, and garbage cans, all of which provide inviting habitats for pests.
- Trim back tree branches and bushes that may provide for easy access and entry at roof level.
3) Chemical Pest Control Products
There are a large number of chemical pesticides available to homeowners. These products will generally work better and prove more effective if sanitation and exclusion measures have been practiced first. Chemical pest control products come in various formulations to suit your needs and circumstances, including dusts, baits, granular, and liquid formulations. Before applying a pesticide product, always read the directions on the label.
Search for Chemical Control Products by Pest:
- Cockroach Control
- Rodent Control
- Fly Control
- Bird Control
- Ant Control
- Spider Killer
- Termite Control
- Earwig Control
- Silverfish Control
- Bed Bugs Control
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