If you are a homeowner, you know there’s always something to spend money on. Repairing, upgrading, and improving all cost money. As a result, I’m sure you’re always interested in ways to be more frugal! If you’re a frugal homeowner, figuring out how to DIY pest control is a great way to save money. You don’t need expensive sprays or necessarily to pay for a pest control company. There are so many ways you can do it yourself—here are my top tips!
DIY Pest Control for Frugal Homeowners
Sealing Entry Points
Inspect your home for any cracks, gaps, or openings where pests can enter. Seal these entry points using caulk, weather stripping, or wire mesh.
Proper Food Storage
Store food in airtight containers to prevent attracting pests like ants, roaches, and rodents. There are also many food items (flour, oats, etc.) that you can keep in the freezer.
Maintain Cleanliness
Keep your home clean by regularly sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping floors. Wipe down countertops and tables to remove crumbs and spills that can attract pests. A robot vacuum is a great way to do this without a lot of extra work!
Remove Standing Water
Eliminate sources of standing water around your home to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Check for leaky faucets, clogged drains, and containers that collect water. Standing water can also produce mold and attract certain kinds of pests.
Trim Vegetation
Trim bushes, shrubs, and tree branches away from your home to reduce hiding places for pests and prevent easy access to your house.
Natural Repellents
Use natural repellents such as peppermint oil, lavender oil, or vinegar to deter pests like ants, spiders, and mosquitoes. Spray these solutions around entry points and areas where pests are present.
DIY Traps
Create homemade traps using common household items to capture pests like fruit flies, ants, and rodents. For example, a mixture of apple cider vinegar and dish soap can be used to attract and trap fruit flies.
Diatomaceous Earth
Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth in areas where you suspect insect activity. Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance that can help control pests like ants, cockroaches, and fleas by dehydrating them. It is safe for children and pets to be around.
Boric Acid
Use boric acid powder to control cockroaches and ants. Apply boric acid in areas where pests are active, such as behind appliances and along baseboards. Use caution and keep boric acid away from children and pets. You can also create a mixture using boric acid and other ingredients and soak cotton balls in it.
Install Screens
Install screens on windows and doors to prevent pests from entering your home while still allowing for ventilation.
Regular Inspections
Conduct regular inspections of your home to identify any signs of pest activity. Address issues promptly to prevent infestations from becoming more severe.
Remember, while DIY pest control methods can be effective for minor pest problems, severe infestations may require professional assistance. If you’re dealing with a persistent pest issue, consider consulting with a licensed pest control professional for expert advice and treatment options. That said, I find Dan the Bug Man on YouTube to be a great resource for unique pest issues!