Wanna get pets out of your space? Here’s how to fix your pest problems for good. Plus, several ways you can prevent them in the future.
Termites
These small bugs can enter buildings through gaps in masonry as small as 1/32 of an inch. Even in homes with little wood in the framing or walls, termites may target wooden doors, window frames, cabinets, or shelves. The solution? Consider bait systems or special soil and wood treatments.
Flies
Especially in warmer weather, keeping food covered (with mesh domes, for example), or running an electric fan can help keep these bugs out of your home. We also like this artistic deflector, inspired by a Mexican street vendor trick, which shoos flies naturally: Sunlight reflecting off the water-filled glass bulb confuses flies and repels them.
Ants
Many species of ants are beneficial, as they eat other, more harmful insects, such as fleas and bedbugs. The problem with ants is largely a matter of comfort; they’re not likely to cause disease. When ants invade a house, they are generally just looking for food. That said, ensuring your home is swept clean of any crumbs and food residue can help keep these pests away.
Spider Mites
A common problem for both indoor and outdoor plants, especially when plants are stressed from heat and dehydration, these tiny members of the arachnid family can often be nixed with the help of gentle insecticidal soaps.
Wasps
You should always avoid hosing wasps as this can make them more aggressive. Instead, aim to remove the nest by hiring a professional exterminator.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes love swampy air and humid weather. They can carry diseases, including the West Nile virus, so it’s best to take measures to keep them away. Eliminating standing water and cutting tall grass are the most effective preventative measures.
Silverfish
These tiny silver-gray wingless insects often seek dark, warm, moist environments, such as attics, closets, and baseboards and around bathroom fixtures. Boric acid dust, which is long-lasting and low in toxicity, can be a helpful solution.
Moths
Moths live in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, basements, and attics, and tend to gravitate toward the corners or folds of fabrics. To help keep them away, use Vetiver, a South Asian grass with the pleasant, earthy aroma of an uncut meadow, that moth’s hate. Tuck a bundle into a linen sachet and put it in a drawer, or slip it over a hanger in your coat closet to welcome guests and repel pests. Other good choices: lavender-filled sachets or red cedar.
Mice
October through February is the peak time for mice to enter the home. Mice droppings, nests, evidence of gnawing, stale odors, footprints, and, of course, mouse sightings are evidence of an infestation. If you have a problem, pay special attention to food and garbage cans, and seal off holes and gaps.
Cockroaches
Roaches usually enter homes in paper products such as bags or cardboard boxes, and they prefer to seek refuge in dark, damp places with plenty to eat. A non-toxic way to deter them? Make a mixture of equal parts boric acid and sugar.
