No matter how clean an individual keeps their home, they’ll probably have a run-in with a household pest at some point in time. Not only are these pests capable of endangering one’s health (mentally and physically), they’re usually overlooked due to their size.
Also known as a cave or spider crickets, camel crickets seek out dark, damp places (often a basement, shed, or crawlspace) to take shelter in. They tend to gather in large numbers and have a defense mechanism that causes them to directly jump at things that frightens them. They usually eat fabric, carpet, wood, cardboard, dust, plants (in addition to fungus) and each other.
Methods for getting rid of camel crickets
Seal or block any openings into the house’s lowest level and try keeping the basement dry and organized.
These small, flightless insects feed on blood and can carry deadly diseases, both pets and humans are in danger of carrying fleas.
Getting rid of fleas
Special foggers as well as a powder-based product can be utilized to kill fleas without releasing toxic fumes inside.
These parasitic insects feed on human blood and prefer hiding in the host’s bed along with cracks and crevices.
Getting rid of bed bugs
These are one of the most challenging pests to eradicate; individuals should take help from professionals who are experienced with controlling bed bugs. Bed bugs can move quickly and usually spread throughout the entire building, so it’s best for those who stay in an apartment or condo to alert the property manager as they may not be the only one with a problem.
Researchers have come across many kinds of gnats, the most common being the fungus gnat. This gnat likes to reside in houseplant soil especially when people overwater their house plants.
Getting rid of gnats
Placing potted plants outside and keeping an eye on the indoor plants so that they don’t get infested. If this happens, let the soil dry out before watering them again. Fruits should be stored in the refrigerator instead of the counter. You can use traps to catch adult gnats, but not larvae.
Silverfish aren’t poisonous and don’t transmit diseases, however, they tend to eat most household items including books, wallpaper, insulation, cardboard, and even fallen human hair.
How to get rid of silverfish?
Limit these insects food sources by keeping dry goods and pet food in airtight containers. Vacuum floors regularly maintains cleanliness and eradiate such pests. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas and line dirt floors to control moisture. Seal any openings and ensure that the gutters are clean; the paint should be present on the house walls.
Termites are considered amongst the US’s most destructive pests. The average termite damage to a home totals about $7,000 to $8,000 and most home insurance policies don’t even cover it. They can feed on wood 24 hours a day and spread throughout the house within days.
Simple ways to get rid of termites
Terminix notes the most common signs of termite infection; this includes wood damage behind floors and walls, discarded wings near entry points, and mud tubes where the ground meets the home. Owners can replace damaged wood with the assistance of a professional for a permanent solution.
Moths can do real damage around the home. They not only destroy sweaters but also gnaw on rugs and carpets. Apartment Therapy reports that moths lie low in dark corners and don’t often fly around the house. It’s the larvae and not the adult moths which munch through the wool.
How to get rid of moths?
Homeowners can discourage moths by regularly shaking out clothes, cleaning closets, and washing clothes. Don’t ever put away dirty knitwear and vacuum the carpets. Repel moths from clothes with cedar balls or lavender sachets and seal seasonal clothing in airtight bags when not in use.
Mosquitoes are technically small flies that feed on both human and animal blood, researchers have found over 150 types of mosquitoes. They become more of a problem as the temperature rises and transmit diseases like West Nile virus, malaria, and Zika.
Effective methods for getting rid of mosquitoes
They often enter through windows and doors, so it’s a good idea to place screens. Since mosquitoes develop in water, it’s recommended to eliminate water sources. If people have an infestation, refrain from attempting to deal with it and get in touch with a professional as they might contain diseases.
These insects prefer living in warm houses, kitchens, and wall cavities. They often come out after dark to feed and have a legendary ability to survive along with usually carrying an E. coli and salmonella. If one is spotted, more are likely to appear nearby.
How to get rid of cockroaches?
Good Housekeeping reports that most Americans encounter either German or American versions of this pest. Figure out which one lives in the house and call professionals if owners fail to get rid of them. Clean up leftover food and don’t leave out dishes. Put out bait, and seal entry points.
These are major structural pests in some parts of the world especially the Pacific Northwest. Carpenter ants don't eat wood but they tend to hollow out solid pine or fir lumber to make nest galleries. Carpenter ants can reportedly be traced on real estate activities as they can be a nuisance when they rummage indoors looking for water and sweets.
How to get rid of carpenter ants?
These pests cannot be dealt with by ordinary individuals and require pest controllers to get rid of them securely.
OverviewMost household pests can be prevented by closing all windows during the night and doing regular pest controls, some insects like spiders also help by eating other pests. Keeping the house clean and having a sense of personal hygiene plays a vital role in getting rid of pests.
