36 Bug Buster Tips for 2023: Break Free from Pesky Pests

Infestations can turn your home into a nightmare. But don't worry, with our 36 expert-approved tips, you'll be a bug-busting pro in no time.

Preventing Infestations

1. Seal Up Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, or holes and seal them up to prevent bugs from entering.
2. Declutter and Clean: Regularly remove clutter and vacuum or sweep floors to eliminate potential hiding spots.
3. Store Food Properly: Keep food in airtight containers to prevent contamination from insects.
4. Fix Leaks and Standing Water: Eliminate water sources that can attract mosquitoes and other pests.
5. Use Traps and Baits: Place traps and baits strategically around your home to catch pests before they spread.

Getting Rid of Bugs

6. Vacuuming: Vacuuming carpets, floors, and furniture regularly removes bugs, eggs, and larvae.
7. Steam Cleaning: Steam cleaning kills bugs and removes their eggs from carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
8. Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around entry points, baseboards, and other areas where pests may hide.
9. Chemical Treatments: Use chemical sprays or foggers to eliminate pests effectively, but follow instructions carefully.
10. Professional Pest Control: If the infestation is severe, contact a professional pest control company for expert assistance.

Natural Pest Control

11. Essential Oils: Diffuse or apply essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus to deter bugs.
12. Garlic: Plant garlic around your home or use garlic spray to repel pests naturally.
13. Citrus: Place orange or lemon peels near entry points to keep bugs away.
14. Cinnamon: Sprinkle cinnamon powder on windowsills and other areas to deter pests.
15. Beneficial Insects: Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings to your garden to eat pests.

Kitchen Bug Busters

16. Clean Regularly: Wipe down counters, clean appliances, and dispose of food scraps to prevent infestations.
17. Check Cabinets and Pantries: Regularly inspect these areas for signs of pests and clean thoroughly.
18. Use Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth in areas where bugs hide, such as under sinks or in pantries.
19. Store Pet Food Properly: Keep pet food sealed in airtight containers to prevent insects from getting in.
20. Eliminate Moisture: Fix leaks and wipe up spills to reduce the risk of attracting pests.

Bedroom Bug Busters

21. Wash Bedding Regularly: Wash sheets, blankets, and pillows in hot water to kill pests and remove allergens.
22. Inspect Mattresses and Box Springs: Look for signs of bed bugs and treat them promptly.
23. Vacuum Floors and Furniture: Vacuum regularly to remove bugs and eggs.
24. Use Bed Bug Covers: Encase mattresses and box springs in specially designed covers to prevent infestations.
25. Keep Surroundings Clutter-Free: Remove any clutter that can provide hiding spots for pests.

Bathroom Bug Busters

26. Fix Leaks and Standing Water: Eliminate water sources around toilets, sinks, and showers to reduce pest attraction.
27. Clean Drains Regularly: Pour boiling water or baking soda and vinegar down drains to kill pests and eggs.
28. Use a Bath Bomb: Drop a bath bomb containing essential oils like peppermint or tea tree to deter bugs.
29. Keep Towels Dry: Hang towels to dry thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew, which can attract pests.
30. Declutter and Clean: Remove clutter and clean surfaces regularly to eliminate hiding spots.

Outdoor Bug Busters

31. Keep Grass Trimmed: Cut grass regularly to remove hiding spots for ticks and other pests.
32. Remove Standing Water: Eliminate birdbaths, flower pots, or puddles that can attract mosquitoes.
33. Use Mosquito Repellents: Apply mosquito repellent to skin and clothing when spending time outdoors.
34. Wear Long Clothing: Wear long pants, sleeves, and socks to prevent ticks and other pests from getting on your skin.
35. Inspect Pets: Check your pets for fleas, ticks, and other pests regularly and treat them accordingly.
36. Call a Professional: If the outdoor infestation is severe, contact a professional pest control company.

FAQs

1. What are the most common types of bugs that infest homes? Ants, cockroaches, bed bugs, spiders, and mice are some of the most common.
2. How can I prevent bug infestations in my home? Seal entry points, declutter, clean regularly, store food properly, and eliminate water sources.
3. What are some effective natural pest control methods? Essential oils, garlic, citrus, cinnamon, and beneficial insects can help deter bugs.
4. When should I call a professional pest control company? If the infestation is severe, if you have tried DIY methods that haven't worked, or if you have concerns about the safety or health risks of pests.
5. How much does pest control cost? Costs vary depending on the size of your home, the severity of the infestation, and the type of treatment required.
6. How long does it take to get rid of bugs? The time it takes to eliminate an infestation depends on the type of bug, the severity of the problem, and the effectiveness of the treatment.
7. How can I prevent bugs from coming into my yard? Trim grass regularly, eliminate standing water, use mosquito repellents, wear long clothing, inspect pets, and call a professional if needed.
8. What are the benefits of a pest-free home? A pest-free home is more comfortable, healthier, and free from damage caused by pests.