The scratching. The scuttling. The squeaking. The noises in the middle of the night alone are enough to make you wonder…is there a pest lurking in your house?
Add to that the fact that certain pests, like flies, rodents, and cockroaches, can spread diseases and make people extremely sick, and it’s no wonder that pest control tends to be at the top of mind for so many people.
But like so many other things in life, when you start searching for pest control information and facts, you’re sure to come up with your fair share of bad pest control advice.
In this post, we’ll debunk some common pest control myths to help separate fact from fiction – and to give you some peace of mind about your pest control needs.
Myth #1 – Only Dirty Homes Have Pest Problems
Many people assume that pests only invade dirty, cluttered homes. But this is so far from the truth. Pests are attracted to food, water, and shelter. Even the cleanest homes can provide these necessities for pests.
So, don’t be ashamed if you have a pest problem in your home. Instead, focus on finding and eliminating the source of the problem. This could be a leaky pipe, garbage left out overnight, or even a crack in your foundation that provides access to the rest of the home.
Myth #2- DIY Methods Are Most Effective
While there are some DIY techniques that can work, many are ineffective and even dangerous.
For example, using store-bought insecticides can harm beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies. Also, some DIY traps and baits can actually attract even more pests to your home. It’s best to consult with a professional pest control company to help you get rid of pests effectively and safely.
Myth #3- All Pests are Harmful
Not all pests are created equal. Sure, some can be harmful and even poisonous, like certain spiders and rodents.
However, there are plenty of pests that are just annoying, like fruit flies and ants. In fact, some pests are actually beneficial to the ecosystem, like bees and ladybugs.
Myth #4- Pest Control Treatments Harm the Environment
This myth is partially true, but it’s not the full story. Yes, some pesticides can be harmful to the environment, but that doesn’t mean all pest control treatments are bad. There are plenty of eco-friendly options out there, like diatomaceous earth, which is safe to use around pets and children.
Myth #5- My Cats Will Keep the Pests Away
As much as we all love our furry feline friends, they’re not always effective at keeping pests away. Sure, cats are natural predators and will hunt down mice and other small critters. But just because they catch a few doesn’t mean they’ll keep the problem under control.
In fact, cats can actually attract more pests because their food and litter boxes can be a food source and breeding ground for insects. So while your cat may be great at catching the occasional mouse, it’s not a reliable pest control method.
Myth #6 – Pest Control is a One-and-Done Process
Ah, if only it were that easy. Pest control is a process, not a one-time event. Even if you’ve had a pest problem in the past and think you’ve gotten rid of them, they can easily come back. The key to effective pest control is to be vigilant and proactive.
Regularly checking for signs of pests, sealing up entry points, and keeping your home clean and clutter-free are all ways to prevent pest problems from arising. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Myth #7 – You Can Control a Pest infestation By Spraying Insecticide Everywhere
Spraying insecticide all over your house may seem like a logical solution to get rid of pests. However, it’s not a good idea. Certain insecticides can not only harm pests but also cause health problems for humans and pets.
Overusing insecticides can also lead to pesticide resistance, making it harder to control pest problems in the future. It’s better to use less-toxic methods, such as exclusion, trapping, or baiting before considering insecticides.
What Are the Basic Rules of Pest Control?
Now that you know the most common myths and misconceptions about pest control, how do you go about getting the help you need?
First, keep a clean and tidy home. Vacuum, sweep, and seal up cracks and crevices. Be mindful of how you are using pesticides, and most importantly, do your due diligence. Be smart about the solutions you employ.
One of the smartest things you can do is to contact a professional. At Hawx Pest Control, we know what it takes to handle even the most severe infestations. We’ll work with you to find a solution that works well for your budget – and your specific pest problem. Give us a call today and join our family of satisfied customers!
