DIY Pest Control Mishaps
Finding pests in the home can be disconcerting for any homeowner. Before launching a full assault, consider some of the mistakes other homeowners have made with do-it-yourself home pest control. Avoiding these mistakes can protect a family’s health and keep your home pest free.
Common DIY Pest Control Mistakes
Ants
Over the counter (OTC) ant sprays will kill ants on contact. However, entomologists warn that it may ultimately make the problem worse. OTC ant sprays leave a residue that is repellant to ants and forces them to retreat to other areas of the home. This makes it difficult for the homeowner to locate the colony. Within days, forging ants will return in search of food and water. This is an activity they engage in every day to support the rest of the colony. The ants seen in the home represent only 8-10% of the ants in a typical colony. A better approach is to use indoor baiting techniques that foraging ants will bring back to the colony. Using their foraging behaviors can destroy the entire colony and eliminate the issue.
Mouse Traps
Quite commonly, homeowners will see a mouse in their kitchen and leave a trap to catch it only to return and find it empty. There are several reasons for this. Mice, while inquisitive, have poor eyesight and tend to travel along the walls using the same routes every day. Place the mousetrap along the wall in areas where you find mice droppings and turn it bait side in.
Also, don’t overload the trap with bait. A small piece of bacon, dab of peanut butter or chocolate icing will do the trick. For homes with small children and pets, it might be better to place the traps in a concealed area such as under a cabinet or behind the stove to prevent accidents from happening.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are most active at nighttime so that is the best time to search for the nest. They are often found in wood that has past water damage. Nests could be behind a fascia or soffit, siding or desks. Also, check around doors and windows that have water contact such as the frames and sills.
Folk Remedies
Using untested home remedies or folk cures is not the best way to get rid of unwanted pests. Proven pest control methods will be more effective. Also, homeowners should thoroughly research natural home pest control methods they are interested in using. Pest control experts recommend not wasting money on electronic rodent deterrents.
Follow Product Directions
OTC pest control products contains chemicals that can be dangerous to children and pets so it is important to read all of the directions before using any product. With home pesticides, more is not always better so check the proper application amounts to get the best results.
Preventative Pest Control
Preventive pest control involves simple steps that every homeowner can take as taking the garbage out regularly and sealing all potential entry points. Also, be careful about the items that are brought into the home; Bed bugs and other household pests can gain entry in luggage and fresh produce, for instance. Lastly, don’t let pest control problems get out of control before calling an expert.
Professional Pest Control with Legacy
Legacy Pest Control is a family-owned business that has been serving homes and businesses in northern Utah for 20 years. The experts at Legacy Pest Control will keep your home pest free safely and economically. We provide free estimates and guarantee the work we do. If you’re facing an infestation beyond your control, contact us here, or call 801-779-3131 today!
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