Tips to help get rid of pests indoors

Dealing with pests can be a frustrating experience for homeowners. From ants marching through the kitchen to the occasional mouse popping up in your pantry, these unwelcome visitors can disrupt our peace and comfort at home. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to get rid of bugs in the house. Whether you're facing a minor infestation or want to prevent future encounters, the technicians at Western Exterminator know how to get rid of pests and can help you choose the best pest treatment for your home.

Common pests found in homes

The western United States provides ideal habitats for a variety of pests. These pests not only disrupt daily life but can also pose health risks and cause significant property damage. Here are the most common pests you may need home pest control for:

What to do if you see signs of pest activity

Pest can be sneaky, but they often leave behind some telltale signs of their presence. Pests are most commonly found in our homes kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and attics or crawl spaces. Here are some signs you may need insect pest control: 

• Droppings: Finding droppings is one of the most common signs of pest activity. Rodent droppings are usually small, pellet-like, and dark in color, while cockroach droppings might appear like black pepper or coffee.
• Tracks or trails: Look for tracks or trails, which can include footprints or markings in dust or dirt. Rodents often leave trails along walls or baseboards, while insects may leave behind pheromone trails.
• Gnaw marks: Pests such as rodents can leave tooth marks on wood, wires, and furniture. If you see uneven edges or small holes, it could indicate chewing activity. 

• Nesting material: Signs of nesting can include shredded paper, fabric, or insulation. Rodents often create nests in hidden areas, and insects, like certain types of ants, may have visible nests or mounds. 
• Unusual sounds: Noises such as scratching, scurrying, or buzzing may indicate an infestation. Many pests are most active at night, making their noises more noticeable during quiet hours. 
• Damage to property: Look for signs of damage to boxes, food packaging, or furniture. Pests may bore into wood or slice into bags of food. 
• Visible pest sightings: Spotting the pest itself is a clear indication of an issue. Be alert for common household pests like cockroaches, ants, rodents, or spiders.

If you spot any of these signs of pests, it’s important to take action immediately. A small pest issue can quickly become a major infestation. If you suspect pests have invaded your home, Western Exterminator can help.

Home pest control options

Many homeowners prefer to take the DIY approach to pest control. While there are some options that can help deter pests, they are generally not as effective as professional pest control. One of home pest control options you may consider is the use of essential oils. Citronella, lavender, eucalyptus, and others can help deter pests from entering your home. Another common approach is companion planting; for example, marigolds can deter nematodes and other pests when planted alongside vegetables. However, it’s important to note that these methods are not effective in eliminating infestations completely. 

Another popular approach is using traps, which can be tailored for different types of pests. For instance, sticky traps are great for catching insects like flies and spiders, while snap traps are often used for rodents. Additionally, using barriers, such as caulking cracks and sealing entry points, can help prevent infestations. Chemical methods like insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides can also be used, but their effectiveness can vary based on the type of pest, the product's formulation, and the application method.

Prevention strategies to help keep pests away

Effective pest prevention is key to maintaining a healthy and comfortable living space. By implementing a few simple strategies, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of unwanted pests invading your home. 

• Routine home inspections: By regularly checking for signs of pest activity, you can catch potential infestations before they become significant issues.
• Sealing entry points: Identify and close any gaps, cracks, or openings in your home’s structure that could allow pests to enter.
• Regular cleaning and waste management: Maintaining a clean living environment can significantly reduce the attractiveness of your home to pests.
• Proper food storage: Store food in airtight containers to prevent pests from gaining access. 
• Address water leaks: Fix leaks and standing water issues to reduce moisture that attracts pests.

When to get professional help

If you have persistent pest activity and damage to property, or if your DIY efforts are falling short, it’s time to seek professional help. At Western Exterminator, our technicians have the knowledge and expertise to tackle any pest issues you may face. By investing in professional pest control, you can help save money in the long run by stopping potential infestations early. 

To get rid of bugs in the house, call Western Exterminator. With our PestFree365+ plans, you can protect your home from up to 39 common household pests.¹
 

¹To see our Covered Pests, visit https://local.westernexterminator.com/pestcontrol/.