Common Household Pests and How to Control Them
Common Household Pests and How to Control Them
No one likes uninvited guests in their home—especially when they’re pests! From ants in the kitchen to cockroaches in the bathroom, household pests can quickly become a serious problem if not handled properly. The good news is that with the right knowledge and a few simple steps, you can keep these unwanted visitors under control. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most common household pests and how to manage them using basic general pest control techniques.
1. Ants
Ants are one of the most common pests found in homes, especially in the warmer months. They often come indoors looking for food or water, usually forming long trails along walls or benches.
How to control ants:
Keep food in sealed containers
Clean up crumbs and spills right away
Block entry points with caulk
Use ant baits or natural remedies like vinegar or lemon juice
2. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are not only creepy—they also carry bacteria that can affect your health. They prefer dark, warm places and are often found under sinks, behind fridges, or in cupboards.
How to control cockroaches:
Keep your kitchen clean and dry
Empty the garbage regularly
Seal cracks and gaps around pipes
Use cockroach baits or traps
3. Spiders
Most household spiders are harmless, but their webs can be messy and unpleasant. Some, like the redback spider in Australia, can be dangerous.
How to control spiders:
Vacuum regularly, especially corners and behind furniture
Remove webs when you see them
Seal windows and doors
Use natural repellents like peppermint oil
**4. Rodents (Mice and Rats)
**Rodents can cause big problems in homes. They chew through wires, damage property, and spread disease.
How to control rodents:
Store food in airtight containers
Block access points (even tiny holes)
Set traps in problem areas
Call a professional if the problem grows
5. Termites
Termites are small, but they can cause serious damage to your home’s structure by feeding on wood. They are often hidden, so you may not see them until damage is done.
How to control termites:
Get regular termite inspections
Avoid storing wood near your home
Fix leaks and keep areas dry
Use termite barriers or call a pest control expert
Final Thoughts
Dealing with household pests doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is to stay clean, stay alert, and take action early. If you’re ever unsure or dealing with a larger infestation, don’t wait—call in a professional. At Accurate Training, we help people learn how to safely and effectively manage pests through our general pest control courses. Whether you’re protecting your own home or helping others, knowledge is the best first step.