While you can trust your exterminator to take care of whatever pest problem your home is facing, professional pest control services will always be more effective when you understand basic preventative measures you can take.
Here are four things your exterminator wants you to know so you can do your part to keep your home pest-free:
1. Prevent moisture– It’s fairly obvious that most pests, such as mosquitos, cockroaches, ants, and termites, are attracted to water. To help keep them away, you should make sure to eliminate excess moisture in and around your home. One thing most people don’t think to do is clean their gutters. If you have standing water in your gutters, it’s like a beacon for pests, so it’s important to make sure water will run smoothly through them. Another thing you can do is use a dehumidifier indoors. The Southeast is pretty humid, and that makes it a great place for pests to thrive, but a dehumidifier can make your home a less-appealing place for them.
2. Be careful of used furniture– We understand the appeal of antique furniture or used furniture at a low price, but you should always be cautious before you bring it home. Second-hand furniture, especially upholstered furniture, is an extremely common way that pests are introduced into homes. If you’re not willing to pass on what seems like a great deal, make sure you inspect the piece thoroughly for bed bugs, which leave small dark dots and red streaks behind. Avoid furniture with cracks and crevices where insects could hide as well.
3. DIY solutions are usually ineffective– Often, people try to take care of pest problems themselves with products they bought at the store or home remedies that are actually myths. These methods won’t solve the problem, and in some cases, they can make it worse. Trust an exterminator to do their job.