Common Household Pests in Chicago: Identification and Prevention

Have you found yourself in a constant battle against pesky household pests? 

As homeowners, it’s our responsibility to keep our homes free from these unwanted guests. In Chicago, we deal with different types of pests throughout the year due to the diverse weather conditions. 

These pests can cause health hazards, property damage, and financial loss. 

Are you curious about what the most common household pests in Chicago are? Keep reading to learn more – and what you can do about it. 

What Are the Most Common Household Pests in Chicago?

1. Ants

Ants are perhaps the most common pest households we have to deal with. They are attracted to sweet and sugary foods. They also leave a scent trail for other ants to follow, leading to an ant infestation in your home. 

Ants can be tough to control if you don’t know where their entry points are. To control and prevent ants, store your food in airtight containers and seal any possible entryways, such as cracks in walls, windows, or doors. 

If you find yourself with an ant infestation, contact a pest control company immediately to help eliminate the problem at the root.

2. House Spiders

One of the most common spiders in Chicago is the house spider. This is especially true during the colder months when they seek warmth inside your home. They can enter through small gaps in window sills, doors, and even tiny vents leading to cramped attics. 

Spiders of all sorts can be creepy and intimidating, but the good news is that most house spiders do not pose a health risk to humans. Nonetheless, it’s important to maintain a clean home to prevent them from setting up shop. 

3. Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that live off primarily human blood. They are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, which, unfortunately, marks humans as their prime target (pets are another popular target for these pests).

They can easily hitchhike in bags, clothing, or other items, leading to infestations that are tough to mitigate. 

Bed bugs can be difficult to eliminate, but taking preventive measures can help, such as using bed bug-proof mattress covers and vacuuming regularly. If you suspect a bed bug infestation in your home, don’t delay in contacting the pest control professionals.

4. Fleas and Ticks

Fleas and ticks are widespread in Chicago, especially during the summer months. While cats and dogs are the most frequent hosts, these pests can also bite humans and spread disease. 

To prevent flea and tick infestations, ensure that your pets are vaccinated and given a monthly dose of flea and tick medication. Be sure to vacuum your home frequently, and wash your pet’s bedding routinely in hot water.

5. Cockroaches

Cockroaches are another common household pest – just a few cockroaches can quickly morph into a full-blown infestation.

These pests prefer warm, dark places, so be sure to clean all the hidden corners and crevices of your home. 

Be sure to fix any water leaks or moist areas in your home since cockroaches thrive in damp environments. If you’re having trouble getting rid of these pests, call in a professional exterminator for help – they have access to treatments that you might not be able to introduce yourself. 

6. Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are more than just an annoyance – they can also pose serious health risks by spreading diseases such as the West Nile virus. 

To keep mosquitoes away, ensure that there is no standing water around your home, install screens on your windows and doors, and use mosquito repellents containing DEET. Whenever possible, avoid being outside during dawn or dusk when mosquitoes are most common.

7. Bees and Wasps

Bees and wasps can be a significant problem during the summertime in Chicago, making it tough to enjoy nice weather.

These pests are dangerous, and their stings can be very painful and cause allergic reactions in some people. It’s best to avoid being stung, so if you find a hive or nest in or near your home, you should call a professional to remove it safely. 

Don’t attempt to remove the nest yourself – again, there’s the risk of being stung, plus the fact that many bees and wasps are actually beneficial to the environment. A pest control professional may be able to get rid of the nest in a way that protects the inhabitants inside.

8. Rodents

Chicago winters often drive rodents inside for warmth, and they can cause significant damage to homes even during the summer months, too.

Rats and mice can carry diseases and parasites, and they can also chew through electrical wires, causing fires. Be sure to seal any holes or openings around your home and store your food in tightly sealed containers. If you have a rodent infestation, call a professional pest control service to remove the pests.

9. Stink Bugs

Easily identifiable by their shield-shaped backs and pungent odor, stink bugs make their way into Chicago homes during the fall season. They are attracted to warm spaces, but they don’t pose a health risk to humans. 

However, they can be a nuisance, and their excrement can stain walls and fabrics. The best way to get rid of them is by vacuuming them up and safely discarding them.

10. Boxelder Bugs

These pests are prevalent in the Chicago area and are easily identifiable by their black and red markings. During the summer season, they can congregate in large numbers on the sunny side of buildings and walls, often finding their way inside a home through cracks and crevices. 

While they are ultimately harmless, boxelder bugs can create a significant disturbance. The most effective way to control them is by sealing up all cracks and crevices and vacuuming them up when spotted.

What to Do About Household Pests in Chicago

Dealing with any of these unpleasant ants, flies, or even common spiders in Chicago?  

The truth is that pests can cause significant problems for homeowners in Chicago. Identifying these pests and implementing prevention strategies will help keep your home free from pests. 

If you’re dealing with any pest issues, contact Hawx Pest Control today – and join our growing family of satisfied customers. Our expert technicians are fully equipped to handle all pest challenges and keep your home pest-free for good.