Living in the South OKC metro area, including Moore and Norman, we’re blessed to experience all four seasons. However, it also means dealing with a variety of common household pests that can invade our homes. The last thing you want is an infestation, no matter what species the pest is. Here are five unique and effective ways to protect your home from some common .
Termites: Defend Your Home with Moisture Control
Termites are notorious for causing significant damage to homes by eating away at the wooden structures. One of the best ways to prevent a termite invasion is to control the moisture levels around your house.
DIY Tip: Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear and direct water away from your home’s foundation. Regularly check for leaks in faucets, pipes, and the roof. Also, make sure that the soil around your home slopes away from the foundation to prevent water pooling. Using a dehumidifier in your basement or crawl space can also help keep the area dry and less attractive to termites.
Roaches: Keep Them Out with Cleanliness and Natural Repellents
Roaches are not only creepy but can also pose health risks by spreading bacteria. They thrive in dirty environments, so maintaining cleanliness is key.
DIY Tip: Keep your kitchen and dining areas spotless by wiping down counters, cleaning up spills immediately (including water spills, they love to next near a water source like a leaking pipe under a sink), and storing food in airtight containers. Regularly take out the trash and clean the bins. Avoid storing items in cardboard boxes inside your home. For a natural repellent, try placing bay leaves or cucumber slices in areas where roaches are commonly seen. Roaches dislike the smell of these items and will avoid areas where they are placed.
June Bugs: Manage Outdoor Lighting and Timing
June bugs are attracted to light and can swarm around your home during the summer months. While they are generally harmless, they can be a nuisance, especially during those backyard barbeques, or when they get inside your home.
DIY Tip: Use yellow or sodium vapor light bulbs for outdoor lighting, as these are less attractive to June bugs. Additionally, consider turning off unnecessary outdoor lights during June bug season, typically from late May to early July. If you have to use lights, place them away from doors and windows to prevent the bugs from finding their way inside.
Spiders: Natural Barriers and Decluttering
Spiders can be beneficial by eating other pests, but they can also be unwelcome guests, especially in a household with kids. Keeping them out requires a two-pronged approach of decluttering and using natural deterrents.
DIY Tip: Regularly clean and declutter your home, particularly in basements, attics, and garages where spiders love to hide. Use essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus as natural repellents. Mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and spritz around doorways, windowsills, and other entry points. Spiders dislike the strong scents and will steer clear.
Little Black Ants: Natural Barriers and Bait Traps
Little black ants can be a common nuisance, invading your kitchen and pantry in search of food. They often enter through tiny cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior.
DIY Tip: To keep these ants at bay, seal any cracks and gaps around your windows, doors, and foundation. Use natural deterrents like vinegar or lemon juice to clean surfaces where ants are commonly seen; these scents disrupt their scent trails. Additionally, you can create bait traps using a mixture of borax and sugar. Place the bait in shallow containers near ant entry points. The ants will be attracted to the sugar, carry the borax back to their colony, and help eliminate the entire nest.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your home from pests doesn’t always require harsh chemicals or expensive professional services. By taking a few proactive steps and using natural, DIY methods, you can keep your home pest-free and ensure a safe environment for your family. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in maintaining a happy, healthy home in the South OKC metro area.
However, if you have persistent pest problems despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to reach out to local pest control professionals like KC Pest Control for a consultation. They can offer targeted solutions and peace of mind, all with no residential contracts.
Let’s stay vigilant and keep those pesky pests at bay!
Amy Singleton is a contributing author and online editor for Whirlocal South OKC, Moore, and Norman. She’s the host of the Queen Lead Podcast, a motivational & marketing keynote speaker, and the CEO at HITE.
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Jul. 18th, 2024