Of the many nuisances and inconveniences you could come across in your home, most people would agree that bugs are at the top of the list. The many flying, crawling, and buzzing critters that wish to make their way into your house and settle down could cause problems for you and your family. Other than the fear of bugs that many people have, one of the biggest risks you’ll run by not getting rid of the bugs and insects in your home is that of disease.
If you’ve had bug problems in your house and wondered how to get rid of them, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best ways to keep your home insect and bug-free.
1. Keep Your Home Free From Crumbs And Spills
Nobody likes to think about bugs crawling around in their food or water, but the truth is that it can happen easily if you’re not careful. That’s why it’s important to make sure that any water or food sources in your house are cleaned up or put away so that bugs are kept out. One way to do this is to keep your counters clean and free of crumbs. Another way is to make sure that you put away any open boxes of cereal or snacks. Bugs are also attracted to standing water, so it’s important to empty out any sinks or bathtubs that you’re not using. By taking these simple steps, you can help to keep your house bug-free.
2. Take Your Trash Out Promptly
Have you ever noticed bugs crawling around your outside dustbin, or even coming into your house? If so, then you know how important it is to take your trash out properly and promptly. By doing this, you can help to keep bugs out of your house and make your home a more pleasant place to live. Here are a few tips to help you take care of your trash:
- Be sure to use a dustbin with a tight-fitting lid. This will help to keep bugs from getting into the trash.
- Empty your inside dustbin regularly and dispose of the trash in an appropriate manner.
- If you see any bugs in or around your dustbin, be sure to remove them so that they don’t have a chance to lay eggs or multiply.
- Drain and rinse out any products containing liquid properly, before disposing of them, as a dustbin filled with liquid could create horrible smells and attract bugs.
3. Seal Your Doors And Any Cracks
Even the tiniest crack or opening can provide an entry point for pests. To help keep bugs out, it is important to seal up any cracks or openings in your home. This includes doorways, windows, and any other gaps where bugs could potentially get in. You can use caulk, weatherstripping, or even just a simple piece of tape to seal up these openings. Taking this extra step can go a long way towards keeping your home bug-free.
4. Add Screens To Your Windows And Doors
One of the best ways to keep bugs out of your home is to install screens on doors and windows. This will create a barrier that will make it difficult for bugs to enter. In addition, screens still allow airflow into your home so you can still get a cool breeze during those hot summer days. Screens are relatively easy to install and are available at most hardware stores. If you do not want to install screens yourself, you can hire a professional to do it for you. Either way, adding screens to your doors and windows is a great way to keep bugs out of your home.
5. Clean Your Gutters Out Regularly
An accumulation of leaves and debris in your gutters can attract all sorts of bugs, from mosquitoes to ants to termites. Not only are these bugs a nuisance, but they can also carry diseases. In addition, some of these bugs, like termites, can cause serious damage to your home. That’s why it’s important to clean out your gutters on a regular basis. By keeping them free of debris, you’ll help to keep bugs away and reduce the risk of damage to your home.
6. Keep Up To Date With Yard Maintenance
A proper drainage system is important in any yard because it helps to keep the area dry and free of standing water. Not only does this prevent bugs from being attracted to the moisture, but it also helps to keep the ground from becoming saturated and eroding. A good way to ensure proper drainage is to make sure that there is a slope away from your house.
This will help water to flow away from the foundation of your home and prevent flooding in your basement or crawl space. In addition, you should regularly check your gutters and downspouts to make sure that they are clear of debris.
7. Clean Your Pool Regularly
Every pool owner knows that one of the most important tasks is to keep the water clean. Not only does this mean regular vacuuming and skimming, but it also means using the right chemicals to maintain a balanced pH level. However, another important consideration is making sure that the pool doesn’t become a breeding ground for bugs.
A circulation and filtration system will help to keep the water clean, but it’s also important to empty out any stagnant water that may accumulate in corners or other areas of the pool. In addition, be sure to regularly scrub down any areas where bugs could potentially lay eggs, such as steps, ladders, and handrails. By taking these simple steps, you can help to ensure that your pool is a safe and enjoyable place for everyone.
By making use of these home maintenance and cleaning tips, you can ensure your space of relaxation remains exactly that, and not a place for bugs to take over and get comfortable themselves.
