Preventive Pest Control Tips In Your Home
Rodents and insects are just more than a benign trouble. Mice can contaminate your foods and cause food poisoning with bacteria-laden faeces, while mosquitoes, cockroaches, and termites would lead to an endless list of problems that could cost you a lot of money and efforts. Fortunately, all of these harmful pests need shelters and foods to live, so you can ward them off when you know what to do. Here are several tips for pest control in your home.
1. Eliminate sources of moisture
Many pests such as mosquitoes require moisture to lay eggs and survive, while the others rely on water to weaken and damage timber before they start constructing nests in the wood. Thus, you should check to plumb frequently for any leaking pipe. Additionally, make sure to examine the seals around your toilets or bathtubs. If these parts are deteriorating and old, you should caulk them to avoid infestations. Another source of moisture in your house is gutter. It is necessary to free this area from any clog with downspouts correctly draining from its foundation.
2. Store food in airtight containers
Do not store your foods in paper and plastic packaging as it can be an ideal choice for tiny insects such as rodents. Instead, you should keep drinks and foods in insect-resistant glass or hard plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. Pay attention to pet foods or bird seeds, which are the favourite option of mice, and store them in a trash can-type container with tight-fitting lids as well.
3. Reduce clutter inside and outside
A clutter will not only provide pests with a favourable place to survive, but it also makes you less likely to recognize the issue. Stored boxes which are rarely disturbed and observed can be a good spot for pest infestations to grow. Thus, you should pay special attention when storing natural fibre and wool items because they can attract beetles and moths. Silverfish feed on wallpapers, books, papers, and glue, so you should discard these items regularly if not used. Anything that needs to be kept for an extended period should be stored in tightly sealed boxes after being washed and dry cleaned.
4. Weatherize your house
Your house might have several hidden areas which pests can use to come inside. Ideally, you should inspect the exterior parts at least once per months check for small holes or cracks. Patching holes around wires or exterior faucets, vent or window screens, and door sweeps are important to keeping harmful pests outside, especially when the weather gets cold and insects start looking for warmer places to survive. In most cases, these cracks or holes can be repaired with cement or caulk.
5. Regular cleaning
Vacuum furniture and carpets regularly, particularly when if you have a dog or cat which might pick up outdoor fleas. Also, sweep your kitchen, wash dishes, and wipe counters on a daily basis. Check your spice and pantry cabinets frequently for flour beetles and meal moths which can enter your home in boxed products.
For effective pest management in Townsville, get in contact with specialists through their Facebook page.