How to Prevent Pest Infestations in Your Home.

source: Photo by Константин Маманович on Unsplash

Guest Author:  David Clark 

Pests are one of the most common problems that homeowners face. Not only are they a nuisance, but they can also cause damage to your home and pose a health risk to you and your family. The bad news is that they’re inevitable – the good news is that there are things you can do to prevent them from becoming a problem in your home.

There are a few reasons why pests may infest a home. The most common reason is that they’re looking for food. This could be because your home is dirty and there are crumbs or food scraps left around, or because you have a pet that leaves behind food. Another reason is that pests are looking for shelter. This could be because your home is damp and humid, or because there are cracks and crevices that they can hide in.

There are a number of things that you can do to prevent pests from infesting your home. In this article, we’re going to list five tips and tricks to help you keep your home pest-free.

1. Keep your home clean and clutter-free

One of the best ways to prevent pests from taking up residence in your home is to keep it clean and clutter-free. Pests are attracted to food sources and hiding places, so the less clutter there is in your home, the less likely they are to find what they’re looking for. Vacuum regularly, sweep and mop your floors, and wash dishes as soon as you finish using them.

2. Store food properly

Another way to deter pests is to store food properly. Pests love food that is left out, so make sure to put away any food that you’re not currently eating. Don’t leave food out on the counter or in the sink, and make sure to seal up opened packages of food.

You should also keep all food in airtight containers and make sure that you don’t leave any crumbs or food scraps lying around. Wipe down counters and tables after you’ve eaten, and take the trash out regularly.

3. Fix any leaks or damp spots

Pests are also attracted to moisture, so it’s important to fix any leaks or damp spots in your home. Check under sinks, around toilets, and in any other areas where there might be water. If you find any leaks, make sure to repair them as soon as possible.

If your home shows signs of water damage, such as peeling paint or wallpaper, make sure to have it fixed as this can provide an inviting environment for pests.

4. Use pest-repellent plants

Did you know that there are certain plants that can help to keep pests away from your home? Some of the most effective pest-repellent plants include lavender, mint, and marigolds. Planting these around the perimeter of your home can help to keep pests from getting inside.

You could also keep a few plants inside to really deter pests. Just make sure that they’re in pots so that you can keep them away from any food sources.

5. Keep an eye out for signs of pests

The best way to prevent an infestation is to catch it early. Be on the lookout for any signs of pests in your home, such as droppings, nests, or chewed-up food. If you see any of these, take action immediately to get rid of the pests before they have a chance to multiply.

Follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to keeping your home pest-free. Remember, the best defense is a good offense, so don’t wait until you have a problem to take action. Be proactive and keep your home clean, clutter-free, and pest-free.

About the Author:  David Clark is the CEO of Basement Guides with several years of experience in basement-related problems and home safety. He has written and published many resources and guides related to senior home safety, grants, and home modifications. David is currently working to spread the word about senior home safety and health through resourceful guides and articles.