Pests are common in the United States. It’s estimated that about 14 million people have seen rats in their homes. It has also become a fairly common occurrence in cities in certain states, and these facts are only coming from rats. Other types of pests could invade your home, and they’re not just in the form of rodents.
The simplest way to get rid of pests is through pest control. However, the estimated cost of pest control is around $300 to $500, and that’s only for one-time use. It can be costly the more you need it. Here are some options if you want to keep those pests away.
Build a Fence
All sorts of rodents can enter your home from the wild. For example, there are millions of raccoons and squirrels in the US, and they’re known to be pests. If you live in an area with these animals, building a fence around your home might be a good idea. Fences can be made from different materials, but robust composite fencing panels are a good option because they’re durable and long-lasting. You can also choose the height of the fence and make sure it’s tall enough so that pests can’t climb over it.
You can also build natural barriers such as hedges. These can be used to prevent certain pests, but they must be high enough and dense enough to do the job properly.
Use Natural Deterrents
You can use several natural deterrents to keep pests away. For example, Peppermint oil is known to be a good rodent repellent, and it can also be used against other pests. Citronella candles are often used outdoors to keep mosquitoes away, but they can also work indoors.
You can plant certain herbs and spices in your gardens, such as basil, thyme, and garlic. These have strong scents that pests don’t like and can help keep them away.
Natural deterrents are much better than trapping or poisoning pests because they’re not harmful to animals or humans. Other benefits include being cheap and easy to find.
Repellents might also be a good option. Repellents can keep them away or make it difficult for them to breed. This means you won’t have to worry about an infestation if you’re using repellents. Many different types of repellents are available, and they can effectively keep pests away. You can use sprays, traps, or even ultrasonic devices.
The repellent you use will depend on the type of pest you try to get rid of. For example, there are specific repellents for rats and mice. You can also get general repellents that work against a variety of pests.
Keep your Home Clean
One of the main reasons pests enter homes is because they’re looking for food. If you keep your home clean, there will be less chance of pests finding anything to eat. You should sweep and vacuum regularly and empty the bins often.
You should also wash dishes after each meal and wipe down surfaces. You should clean up any spills immediately, and crumbs shouldn’t be left out. These simple steps can make a big difference in keeping your home pest-free.
When cleaning, ensure that you check out nesting spots. Different nesting spots for pests include under the sink, in cupboards, and behind appliances. Ensure that these spots are clean and clutter-free.
Keep Your Water Sources Clean
Mosquitoes are attracted to standing water, so it’s essential to clean any water source. This includes both inside and outside your home. Empty containers holding water, such as vases, pet bowls, and birdbaths.
You should also check for leaks and repair them as soon as possible. Moisture attracts all sorts of pests, so you must ensure that your home is dry.
Keeping your home dry can also keep molds away. Molds aren’t exactly pests, but they can cause serious health problems, so it’s best to avoid them.
Get a Pet
Getting a cat might be a good idea if you have a rodent problem. Cats are known to be natural predators of rodents, so they can help keep your home free of these pests.
Of course, you should only get a pet if you’re prepared to take care of it properly. This includes feeding it and taking it to the vet for regular check-ups. Pets can also be a lot of work, so ensure you’re ready for the responsibility before getting one.
Pest control can be pretty expensive. However, by implementing the tips above, you can keep your home pest-free without spending much money. These tips are also safe for humans and animals, so you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals.
