No one wants pests in their home, yet thousands of homeowners deal with pest infestations every year. Pests are inevitable and every home is bound to encounter them. Although they may be tiny, they have the ability to cause a lot of issues for homes.

According to research, most cities in the U.S. struggle with pest infestations. A couple of the most common pests in the U.S. are cockroaches and rodents. However, wasps and mosquitoes are also prevalent in neighborhoods across the country.

If you're not a fan of insects, pests can cause a lot of psychological problems such as nightmares, anxiety, insomnia, trauma, and personal dysfunction. Before things take a turn for the worst, we're going to teach you how to protect your home from pests.

In this article, we're going to list five actionable tips to help you prevent pests from infesting your home.

1. Declutter Your Home and Clean it Often

Pests love clutter. So, one way to prevent a pest infestation in your home is by keeping it clean and clutter-free. Pests can survive on food and water, so if your kitchen is full of leftovers, now’s the time to give it a deep cleaning and decluttering session.

Another spot that pests love is bathrooms due to their moist and humid environment. Humid environments along with clutter create liveable conditions for pests.

When cleaning your home, remember to wipe down countertops, sweep floors, and empty trash cans regularly. Get rid of any old newspapers, magazines, or boxes that you don't need. The less clutter you have in your home, the fewer chances pests will have to infest it. In addition to decluttering your home, make sure to vacuum and get rid of dust regularly.

2. Store food in sealed containers

Another way to prevent pests is to store your food in sealed containers. Storing food in sealed containers can help keep your food fresh for longer and protect them from pests. It also keeps your home clutter free and reduces the chances of pest infestations. Be sure to seal all open packages of food, including cereals, snacks, flour, and sugar. Remember to store your leftovers properly and avoid leaving them out on counters or tables for long periods of time.

If you have a pet, be sure to store their food in a sealed container as well. Pet food can be a source of pests, so it’s crucial that you store it properly and seal it tightly.

Other than storing your food in sealed containers, try to wash your dishes as soon as you can and avoid leaving them uncleaned in the sink. Leaving dirty dishes in your kitchen sink can attract pests and germs.

Finally, you should avoid leaving food scraps on the ground. Pests are attracted to food scraps, so it's important to dispose of them properly.

3. Use pesticides and insecticides safely

If you happen to be dealing with pests in your home, you might be tempted to use pesticides and insecticides as much as you can. These products are definitely effective in eliminating pests but they can be dangerous if you don’t use them correctly. Before using any pesticides or insecticides, be sure to read the label carefully. Follow all safety instructions, and never use more than the recommended amount.

If you have pets, make sure to keep your furry friends far away from pesticides and insecticides since they can be harmful to animals. In addition to using pesticides and insecticides safely, you should also consider using natural pest control methods.

4. Repair leaks and cracks in your home

Holes and cracks are entryways for pests. So, if you have any cracks or leaks, it’s important to seal them up the second you discover them. Inspect your home for leaks and cracks on a regular basis. Be sure to thoroughly observe them on your walls, floors, and ceilings. If you happen to find a crack, you can seal them up with a sealant like caulk.

In addition to sealing up cracks and openings, you should also make sure that your doors and windows are properly sealed. Be sure to keep an eye on the weatherstripping around your doors and windows, and replace it if it's outdated or damaged.

5. Use mosquito nets while you sleep to keep pests away during the summer months

Mosquitoes can be particularly annoying during the summer months. To keep them away from your home, remove all containers in your yard or garden that collect water. Window screens are also a great way to keep mosquitoes and other pests out of your home. Be sure to inspect your window screens regularly for any rips or tears that could let in unwanted guests. For those unwanted mosquitoes that still find their way into your home, consider using mosquito nets.

Mosquito nets are particularly helpful if you have children, as they can keep them safe from the bites of these pesky disease-spreading bugs. They are also a great way to protect your loved ones from other pests such as hornets and wasps.

6. Hire a professional pest control specialist

If you’re currently dealing with a severe pest problem that you are unsure about how to handle, maybe it’s time to hire a pest control specialist. Pest control companies usually have all the right tools and knowledge to get rid of pests quickly and safely.

Oftentimes, hiring a professional pest control company is the best way to deal with a severe pest infestation. Before you hire a pest control company, make sure you do your research and ask your friends or family members for referrals. Make sure to read online reviews to get an idea of who you will be hiring.

When hiring a pest control company, be sure to ask about their treatment methods and how they will deal with any potential risks.

The Wrap Up

Pests are a serious problem that every homeowner should be aware of and should never be taken lightly. Although a couple of cockroaches and mosquitoes might seem trivial, leaving them alone will make it a bigger problem.

Pests can ultimately cause physical and mental harm to humans. If you're concerned about pest infestations, be sure to follow the tips listed above. And if you're dealing with a serious infestation, don't hesitate to hire a professional to give you a hand and help prevent any future infestations.

Author Bio

Diana R.

Diana is a business community manager of Basement Guides with several years of experience in basement-related problems and home safety. She has written and published many articles related to pest control and home improvement. Diana is currently working to spread the word about pest control through resourceful guides and articles.