October 31, 2024

Common Household Insects?

Is there anything more irksome than spotting an uninvited insect guest scuttling across your floor?

Here in Washington and Utah, homeowners often find themselves up close and personal with a variety of household insects.

From ants on your countertops to spiders weaving webs in forgotten corners, these bugs can cause quite a ruckus. Not only are they a nuisance, but they can also create health issues and structural problems.

So what are the most common household insects? We’ll break it down for you in this post.

The Bug's Eye View: The Most Common Household Insects

Spider on tile floor

So what are some pests you need to keep an eye out for? Let’s take a closer look:

Ants

With their tiny bodies and insatiable appetites, ants can invade kitchens quicker than you can say "picnic."

Most commonly, you’ll encounter sugar ants or pavement ants. These little critters are drawn to sweet or greasy foods, and once they lay a trail, it's like a highway for their buddies.

To keep ants from making your home their playground, make sure that all food is sealed properly. Give your floors a regular sweep and mop to erase those scent trails. If you spot an ant parade, follow it back to its starting point and seal up any entry points with caulk.

Millipedes

Millipedes may look like something out of a sci-fi movie, but they're fairly harmless. Still, nobody wants to find these leggy creatures roaming their home. They thrive in dark, damp places and are most active during the night. If you start seeing them during daylight, you might have a bit of an infestation on your hands.

You can keep millipedes at bay by reducing moisture levels in your house. Fix any leaks, use dehumidifiers, and consider adding some extra ventilation to basements or crawl spaces. An added bonus? This will likely help deter other moisture-loving pests, too!

Spiders

Spiders are the freelance web designers of the insect world, working tirelessly to ensnare prey - and sometimes you! While most are harmless, some, like the infamous hobo spider, can deliver a painful bite.

To prevent spiders from setting up shop, keep clutter to a minimum. Spiders love sneaky hiding spots, so regular cleaning and organization work wonders.

If they’re already a problem, consider using peppermint oil as a natural deterrent. A few drops in water make a great DIY spray that not only keeps spiders away but also leaves your home smelling fresh.

Silverfish

Silverfish are the ninjas of household insects - swift, stealthy, and often seen darting away before you have a chance to catch them. They love starchy materials and can cause damage to books, wallpaper, and clothing.

To cut down their numbers, store such materials in sealed containers. Keeping your home dry will also deter these moisture-loving pests.

If a silverfish infestation has you feeling exceptionally frazzled, diatomaceous earth is a great, non-toxic solution to sprinkle around any vulnerable areas.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are the heavyweight champions of the pest world, often considered some of the most resilient pests around. Wherever there’s food, warmth, and moisture, they’ll thrive. These insects aren't just creepy - they can spread disease and trigger allergies.

To combat cockroaches, cleanliness is key. Regularly take out the trash, fix leaks, and remove clutter where they might be able to hide. If cockroaches continue to persist, bait traps and gels are effective solutions. Seal all cracks and crevices to lock them out for good.

Moths

Moths are known for their love of munching on your favorite sweaters. These little pests can fly under the radar for months, only noticed once they've caused real damage.

A few simple steps can keep moths out of your wardrobe. Store clothes in airtight containers and use cedar or lavender sachets as natural repellents. Also, be sure to regularly vacuum and clean your closets to eliminate eggs and larvae.

Getting Rid of the Most Common Household Pests

Cockroach eating food

Before you can declare war on bugs, you need to know who you're dealing with. Different insects require different tactics, and misidentification can waste both your time and your resources. Invest in a good reference guide or use online resources to help identify your intruders accurately.

Then, know that prevention is your strongest ally. Regular cleaning, sealing of entry points, and proper food storage are just the beginning. Installing door sweeps and repairing window screens add another layer of defense against these unwanted guests.

If you've followed the steps above and still find yourself under siege, it might be time to explore professional pest control options. Our team of experts at Zunex Pest Control can provide tailored solutions that target specific insect problems - without any overreliance on harsh chemicals.

Trust Zunex to Help You Fight the Bug Battle

Silverfish on tile

Insects may be a part of life in Washington and Utah, but they don't have to be part of your home. By understanding their habits and taking proactive steps, you can keep your living space bug-free. Remember, a clean and well-maintained home is your best defense against these pesky invaders.

But iIf your DIY efforts aren't cutting it, or you simply want the peace of mind that comes with expert intervention, Zunex Pest Control is here to help.

Serving the communities of Auburn, WA, as well as Salt Lake City and Provo, Utah, our team is ready to tackle your toughest pest challenges.

Reach out today and reclaim your home from unwanted visitors - no matter who or what those visitors might be!

Schedule Today!

Contact your local Zunex pest expert to schedule a treatment today!