Natural Ways To Bug-Proof a Home
Houseflies and fruit flies are attracted to decaying food, so do not leave any leftovers out for humans or pets.
Mosquitoes and other flying insects are bothersome. Flies and other insects carry illnesses they can transmit to humans while stinging bees and wasps can cause deadly allergic reactions. No one likes pests outside, much less indoors. But many are concerned about how the chemicals used to kill these pesky invaders affect the environment, their pets, and the home’s residents.
There are several natural ways to eliminate pests from a home and prevent them from coming in.
Install screen doors and window screens
Installing screen doors and window screens is a great way to ward off insects. They allow homeowners to enjoy the fresh air while minimizing the risk of insects entering. However, be reminded that most insects are small and can enter even in the tiniest opening.
Keep the exterior of the house in good repair
Inspect the home’s exterior and repair or replace damaged areas and materials, as insects and rodents can enter through rotten wood siding or uncovered vents and chimneys. Use mesh to seal holes around plumbing lines where they enter the house. Cover voids in the roof line to seal places where wasps and bees prefer to nest.
Most of these minor repairs can improve the home’s air conditioning and heating performance, thus saving the homeowner money.
Keep the home and garden clean
Pests thrive on the crumbs people leave behind. So, in addition to cleaning the kitchen daily, there are other steps a homeowner can take.
Houseflies and fruit flies are attracted to decaying food, so do not leave any leftovers out for humans or pets. Refrigerate any very ripe fruit. Store sweet foods like honey in the refrigerator.
Regularly clean the drain lines in the sink to remove food fragments. Cover interior trash can as well as garden compost containers. If it takes a while to fill the compost bin, consider storing it in the freezer to prevent bugs from taking over. Alternatively, empty the bin daily, regardless of how full it is.
While the inside of the house is what most homeowners spend time improving to prevent an infestation, the outside is equally important. Ensure the lawn and gardens are clear of lawn and leaf debris. Also, wash down the deck or patio regularly to remove any traces of food or beverages.
Pour out standing water
Insects, especially mosquitos, lay their eggs in stagnant water. So regularly dump out any water that has collected outside, like pot saucers and bird baths.
Natural oils and herbs
All-natural essential oils can be a terrific aid in keeping bugs away. In addition, these appealingly fragrant oils do not emit harmful gasses or unsafe chemicals into a home.
There are several options. Basil, lemon, eucalyptus, mint, and thyme are known to repel insects. Peppermint oil repels wasps. Lemongrass is best for driving away fruit flies. Remember not to use anything with a flowery fragrance, as that will just attract bugs.
Contacting a professional pest control technician is the best option for homeowners fighting to rid their spaces of insects and vermin.
Bed Bugs Arizona offers a free, in-home bed bug inspection and a one-year warranty on all bed bug services. No obligation. We specialize in apartment communities. Our fast, certified technicians provide the Pro-Treat Plus method of bed bug removal to Phoenix and surrounding cities in a 100-mile plus radius including Flagstaff, Globe, and Casa Grande. Veteran and senior discounts. Call now at (602) 962-8806.
