As summer arrives, so does the potential invasion of pests into our homes. From ants marching through your kitchen to flies buzzing around your bedroom, these pests can disrupt our peace and could even compromise our health if they bite or sting.
To help you enjoy a pest-free summer, we've compiled some tips on preventing common pests that invade homes during this season…
Ants are notorious invaders during the summer months. To prevent them from entering your home, keep your kitchen and other rooms clean and free of food debris.
Store food in airtight containers and wipe down surfaces regularly. Seal any cracks or crevices in your walls, windows, and doors to eliminate their entry points.
Sprinkling cinnamon, mint leaves, or a mixture of vinegar and water along their trails can also discourage their presence.
Wasps can ruin outdoor gatherings. To deter them, keep food and drinks covered, especially when dining outdoors. Empty your bins regularly and ensure they have tightly sealed lids.
To stop them getting inside, don’t leave windows and doors open unnecessarily, especially when preparing food that could attract them.
If you encounter a wasp nest, we can help keep you safe with our professional wasp removal service.
Flying insects like mosquitoes and gnats thrive in the summer and can be a nuisance especially in the evenings.
To reduce their population, eliminate stagnant water sources around your property, such as birdbaths, flowerpots, and blocked gutters.
Use screens on windows and doors to prevent their entry. To prevent itchy bites, consider using repellent cream or spray, especially when spending time outdoors.
Flies are not only annoying but can also contaminate food. Keep windows and doors closed or install window/door screens.
As you would to prevent most pests, clean up spills and food crumbs promptly. Regularly dispose of rubbish and keep bin lids covered tightly. Consider using fly traps or fly paper to catch them if they do enter your home frequently.
Spiders are common houseguests, especially during the warmer months and just after summer too.
To discourage spiders from taking up residence, keep your home clean and clutter-free, as they are attracted to dark and undisturbed areas.
Remove spider webs regularly using a broom or vacuum cleaner and once again, seal cracks and gaps
Bed bugs can become a major problem during the summer, as they thrive in warmer temperatures. To prevent bed bug infestations, regularly inspect and vacuum your mattress and bed frame. Wash bedding and linens on a hot water cycle.
Avoid bringing used furniture or clothing into your home without proper inspection. When travelling, inspect hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs and keep your belongings and clothing elevated off the floor.
Whilst you’ve probably seen in the media that bees should be preserved, they are not actually a legally protected species, so it is not illegal to eradicate them if necessary.
Bees are important pollinators, but they can occasionally build nests in undesirable locations and potentially pose a threat or be harmful to humans.
Bee removal is another service we specialise in, so contact us if you spot a nest near your home and you’re worried.
Carpet beetles can damage carpets, upholstery, and clothing. To prevent an infestation, vacuum your carpets and furniture regularly, paying attention to hidden areas and crevices.
Wash and dry your clothing and fabrics before storing them for an extended period. Consider using natural repellents like lavender sachets or cedar chips in your closets and storage areas.
Silverfish are nocturnal insects that thrive in warm and humid conditions. To deter silverfish, reduce moisture levels in your home by using dehumidifiers or improving ventilation. Fix any plumbing leaks promptly, as they attract these pests.
Store paper goods, books, and clothing in sealed containers to minimise silverfish feeding on them. Seal cracks and crevices in walls and floors to block their entry points.
While mice and rats can be a year-round problem, they can become more active during the summer. To prevent their entry, seal any openings larger than a quarter of an inch in your home's exterior. Again, keeping areas clean is key here.
Dispose of rubbish regularly and keep outdoor areas free from clutter. Trim branches and shrubs away from your home to eliminate potential entry points. If you suspect an infestation, you can set up traps or call us for assistance.
By implementing these preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the chances of pests invading your home during the summer months.
Remember, if you have a pest problem that you can’t tackle alone you can always contact us 24/7 on 0330 108 4111. Pest control is one of our 7 different trades, and we can help with a variety of pests, insects, nests, and vermin. So call now to enjoy a worry-free summer in your pest-free haven!