How to Prevent Pests In Your Home

Stop Pests From Invading Your Home

Dealing with unwanted pests in your home can be annoying. They pose health risks and demand your attention. Most Australian households deal with many types of pest problems each year. Over half the population needs to use some form of pest control in their house annually.

The most common household pests in Australia are ants, cockroaches, spiders, flies, mosquitoes, rodents, and termites. These bugs cause property damage by nesting in walls or wooden structures. Biting insects spread diseases in some cases. These unwanted guests get into stored food sources and contaminate things. Many people experience allergies or asthma attacks triggered by them in their homes.

The good news is there are steps you can take to pest-proof your entire house to keep these intruders out in the first place. It takes diligence to properly store food, block access holes, manage moisture sources, keep things clean, and make your property less inviting to the bugs wanting to come inside.

When you check for rodent activity, notice any small openings that aren’t sealed. Remove clutter from indoors and the garden to ensure pests don’t enter your living space.

This article outlines key tips for Australian homeowners to prevent pests. It’s a service helping with pest-related issues that might be hard to handle alone. If you have found any sign of infestation, it’s likely best to act quickly. Or call a pest control operator to deal with infestations. They can provide local expertise and keep you safe.

8 Pest Prevention Tips

1. Keep Things Clean

One of the best ways to prevent pests is by keeping a clean home. This fosters cleanliness and helps keep insects away. Clean floors regularly, especially in the kitchen. Keep surfaces free of clutter. Taking out garbage frequently also helps avoid attracting it and make your areas clean.

2. Manage Your Rubbish

Make sure trash cans have tight-fitting lids and the bins are not overflowing. Always make sure you dispose of rubbish properly. This prevents pests from getting into the garbage and finding food scraps. Bag all trash items properly and avoid just tossing loose waste into the bins. Also consider placing baits near bins if you see activity. Take garbage out to outdoor bins frequently.

3. Repair Any Leaks or Cracks

Inspect exterior walls, windows and doors, and roof for gaps or holes. Seal cracks and gaps thoroughly to block entry points. Pay special attention to your door frames. Use caulk or weather stripping. Leaky pipes can also attract pests to look for water. Make necessary repairs.

4. Pest-Proof Food Storage

Store all food items in airtight containers. Wash dishes and don’t leave pet food out overnight. This is a good way to keep them from feeding on scraps. Things should go in containers with tight lids. Clean up spills right away, and avoid leaving source of food out. Manage compost piles away from the house. This will prevent rodents such as rats and mice.

5. Manage Drain Pipes

Clogged drains with stagnant water and debris attract some pests. Use drain cleaner and install screens or barriers for tubes regularly.

6. Eliminate Standing Water Sources

Get rid of any sources of water around the home. Standing water in these areas can breed mosquitoes. Fix leaky outdoor faucets, clear out rain gutters, and empty any pots or buckets collecting rainwater. Placing traps around damp spots may help too. It attracts mosquitoes.

7. Keep Landscape Away From Home

Keep all wood piles, compost bins, tree branches, and bushes back from the perimeter of your home. This area near the perimeter should be kept clear for better protection. This creates a buffer zone so pests have less access right up against your home’s foundation.

8. Sanitation is Key

Disinfect countertops, mop floors, and do other cleaning steps like washing bedding that could attract creepy crawlies. Proper sanitation ensures pests are prevented and your health is maintained. Keep things as sanitary as possible throughout the house.

When to Call a Professional

If you already have a pest problem, calling a pest controller is often the easiest solution. They have effective treatments and safe products. They can also provide free advice to pest-proof your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some key safety considerations when doing your home pest control?

Use natural ways when possible versus harsh chemicals, especially if you have kids or pets. Only use outdoor chemicals away from children. Read the labels on pesticides before using them properly. For serious infestations, consider getting professional pest control services to protect your family.

How do I know when it’s time to hire a professional pest control company?

It’s best to call a technician if you see signs of pest infestation or your prevention efforts failed. Severe problems like termite infestation require professional treatment right away.

Should bedding be washed for pest prevention?

Yes, wash all bedsheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and blankets regularly in hot water, then run through the hot clothes dryer cycle. This kills dust mites, bed bugs, and other tiny pests that can live in bedding materials as their breeding ground if not washed frequently.

Can pests cause damage in commercial settings as well?

Yes, pests are a major concern in many commercial spaces, from restaurants to offices. They can damage property, collect in hidden areas, and pose a health risk to employees and customers. It’s crucial to address infestations promptly to ensure a safe working environment.

Conclusion

Preventing pests takes some diligence with cleaning and maintenance. But putting in the effort can pay off by avoiding pest infestations or the need to use dangerous chemicals or hire a pest controller.

Follow these tips to keep them out all year long.