Pests are disruptive, and their constant presence can be unsettling for your peace of mind. Sometimes, it’s even baffling to think about how tiny little creatures like termites, rodents and other insects can cause so much damage to your property, eating away at your floors and gnawing at your electrical wiring. 

So, whether it’s rodents, ants, termites or cockroaches roaming free in your home, we understand how challenging and unpleasant it is to deal with a pest infestation. 

In this blog, we’ll unpack some possible reasons why your living environment attracts pests and help you mitigate the issue by giving you practical home pest control tips. Let’s get started.

Understanding why your living environment attracts pests

Pests are drawn to houses for several reasons. Knowing what makes your home inviting to pests is crucial in taking proactive measures to keep them out of your living spaces and maintaining a pest-free environment. Here are five possible reasons why pests might be attracted to your property: 

1. Food sources

Uncovered food or improperly sealed food packets or containers are beacons to various pests. This extends to crumbs and spills that aren’t properly cleaned up. If you have pets, leaving their feeding and drinking bowls out unclean for long periods can also draw rodents and insects out of their nest or colony and swarm your home.

2. Water

As much as they feed, rodents and insects also need water to survive, making humid areas like basements and bathrooms an inviting oasis for pests. Standing water can also serve as a breeding ground for insects like mosquitoes.

3. Warmth and shelter

During colder months, rodents and insects may invade your home to find a warm shelter to regulate their body temperatures and survive the harsh conditions outside. Plus, the warmth of your living spaces makes a comfortable breeding ground for pests.

4. Clutter

Pests thrive in cluttered environments, particularly in areas like storage rooms or garages, where they can easily find materials such as paper, plastic and cardboard pieces to build their nests. Rodents and insects are also drawn to garbage bags and trash containers, offering readily available food and shelter.

5. Outdoor conditions

Environmental conditions surrounding your property can also contribute to why pests are attracted to your home. For instance, rodents and insects may build their nests or burrow hiding spots in unmaintained shrubbery near your house. Certain types of plants or trees also produce fruits, seeds or nectar, attracting specific pests. 

Six home pest control tips for a pest-free environment

Now that you know the possible causes of what makes your living environment an inviting place for rodents and insects, it’s time to learn helpful home pest control tips to resolve your pest problems and prevent infestations from reoccurring. 

Tip #1: Maintain cleanliness

Keep your living environment squeaky clean at all times by wiping away crumbs and spills immediately, covering uneaten food with lids and tightly sealing bottles and food containers. You should also vacuum your floors and deep clean your kitchen at least once a week. If you have pets, wash their feeding bowls and replace their water after each meal.

Tip #2: Ensure proper waste management 

Building on the previous point, make sure to cover your rubbish bins day and night and dispose of garbage regularly. If you have a storeroom, keep it organised by placing your items in a plastic storage box with tight-fitting lids. Additionally, throw away papers, plastic bags, cardboard pieces and other clutter you won’t likely use in the near future.

Tip #3: Fix water leaks and drain standing water

Most exterminators offering pest control in Wollongong will advise you to repair leaky pipes and faucets or fix any plumbing issues in your home to keep the humidity levels in your kitchen, bathroom and basement low. You should also make it a habit to drain or cover containers where standing water can accumulate. If you have vases or planters without drain holes, replace the water daily to eliminate mosquito larvae. 

Tip #4: Trim vegetation

Whether you have a garden in your backyard or you’re a collector of potted plants, it’s best to pluck out bad weeds and trim your shrubs regularly. You can also plant insect-repellant greens around your home, like citronella, lavender and lemon balm.

Tip #5: Seal entry points

Another helpful tip for effective Wollongong pest control is to seal all cracks, gaps, holes and openings where pests can slip through and hide. You can use caulk or weather strips to fill and block these entry points. Installing mesh screens makes a great and effective solution for keeping pests from entering your home while still providing ample ventilation. 

Tip #6: Consider professional pest control 

If you’ve already tried following all the steps above and your pest problem persists or is getting worse, then there’s probably an underlying issue that requires professional attention. In this case, it’s best to seek the help of pest control specialists, who can efficiently assess your specific situation.

These professionals can identify entry points you might have missed, locate hard-to-reach breeding grounds and present tailored solutions that will effectively put an end to whatever pest infestation you’re dealing with.

Turn to Affordable Pest Control for a pest-free environment

We’re a family-owned and operated business based in Nowra, servicing Wollongong, Kangaroo Valley and the Shoalhaven and Illawarra areas. With more than 26 years of experience in the home pest control industry, you can put your trust in our team of licensed professionals to free your home or commercial property from spiders, ants, rodents, termites, cockroaches and other pests disrupting your daily routine.

Affordable Pest Control takes pride in using solvent-free chemicals in our services, ensuring the safety of your family, pets and the environment. No matter the severity of the pest infestation, we’re ready to come to your rescue. 

So, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of our free estimate and book our home pest control service today by calling 02 4422 0109 or 0413 538 649.