Wasps
Let’s face it, wasps are no-one’s favourite creatures, buzzing around and causing annoyance and anxiety. Their painful stings are always unpleasant but can be especially dangerous for those who are allergic to them. If you want to discourage wasps from invading your space, here are some tips to keep them at bay.
It’s important to remove any potential food sources that may attract wasps. Keep your outdoor areas clean and free of spillages or open rubbish bins. Make sure all food containers are tightly sealed and stored away.
If you have fruit trees or flowering plants around your home, regularly check for signs of wasp activity such as nests or increased numbers flying around the trees. If wasps are a real problem it may be necessary to remove these plants altogether and discourage them from congregating near your property.
If you do spot a nest on your property, don’t attempt to remove it yourself. Pest control companies like us have the necessary equipment and knowledge to safely eliminate the nest without getting stung.
We are skilled at carrying out proofing properties, garages and outbuildings. This proofing work can be carried out alongside or after any treatments have been carried out.
Flies
Flies can be a real nuisance, buzzing around and landing on food, surfaces, you, your children and even annoying the pets!
A first step towards prevention would be to make sure to keep your living areas clean and free of food debris. Flies are attracted to the smell of food, so regularly wipe down countertops, sweep up crumbs, and empty bins promptly.
Next, seal any cracks or openings in doors and windows which flies can easily slip through. By ensuring a tight seal on all entry points, you can significantly reduce their access into your home.
Additionally, you could consider using fly screens on windows and doors which are easy to install and provide an effective barrier against these flying insects.
Another preventive measure is to remove standing water sources from your property. Flies are drawn to stagnant water for breeding purposes. Empty pet bowls regularly and check for any leaks or pooling water outdoors that may attract them.
If the problem persists consider using fly traps or insect repellents specifically designed for flies. If you need some help installing these products or advice on the best ones for your circumstances do get in touch.
cockroaches
Cockroaches are not only unsightly, but they can also be carriers of diseases and allergens. Preventing these resilient creatures from invading your home is crucial for both your health and peace of mind.
To keep cockroaches at bay, start by keeping your living space clean and free of clutter. Cockroaches thrive in dirty environments, so regularly sweep, mop, and vacuum to eliminate any food particles or crumbs that may attract them.
Seal off any cracks or crevices in walls, floors, or cabinets where roaches could enter, paying special attention to areas where pipes or electrical wires come through the walls. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these openings effectively.
Store food in airtight containers and promptly clean up spills or crumbs on countertops and dining tables. Additionally, empty garbage cans frequently and ensure they have tight-fitting lids.
If you’ve had a problem with roaches in the past it is a good idea to regularly inspect dark areas such as cupboards, cellars, and crawl spaces for signs of cockroach activity. If you spot any roach droppings or egg casings, take immediate action by using insecticide sprays or bait stations designed specifically for roach control.
If you’re not confident about dealing with these pests yourself, or you have a severe infestation do get in ouch and we will be happy to help.
Ants
Ants can be a source of frustration – especially in the summer when they are at the peak of their activity. Ants are attracted to crumbs and spills, so regularly wipe down countertops and sweep the floors, as well as storing food in tightly sealed containers.
Like other pests it is important to seal off any entry points into your home. Ants can find their way through even the tiniest cracks and crevices, so inspect windows, doors, and walls for potential openings. You could also create physical barriers by placing tape or chalk lines across doorways or window sills.
Another helpful tip is to remove their water sources. Make sure there are no leaks or standing water both inside and outside of your house. Fix any plumbing issues promptly and avoid overwatering plants near entrances.
If you have an ant problem outdoors, try using natural repellents like cinnamon or coffee grounds as ants dislike the strong scent.
You could also consider planting ant-repellent herbs such as mint or lavender in pots near access points; their strong smell acts as a deterrent.
If your ant problem isn’t getting any better and you need help do get in touch.
Moths
Have you ever opened your wardrobe or larder only to find it infested with moths? These seemingly harmless but pesky insects can be a real nuisance causing damage to your clothing, food, and other belongings. However you need not be stuck with them forever.
It’s important to keep your living spaces clean and tidy. Moths are attracted to cluttered areas with plenty of places they can hide and lay their eggs. Vacuum regularly, especially in areas where moths tend to gather such as cupboards, drawers, and under furniture.
Store clothes not in regular use in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags. Moths love natural fibres like wool and silk so make sure these items are well-protected. Additionally, consider adding cedar balls or lavender sachets to ward off moths which have a strong scent that tends to repel these pests.
When it comes to food storage, use sealed containers for grains, cereals, flour, and other susceptible items. Moths are attracted to the smell of food so keeping it tightly sealed will deter them from potential snacking grounds.
If you are seeing a worrying number of moths or evidence of their activity even after taking these precautions do get in touch and we will be happy to help.
Fleas
Fleas are tiny, annoying pests that thrive in warm environments and can quickly reproduce, leading to a full-blown infestation if not taken care of promptly. As with most things, prevention is always best, so…
First and foremost, it’s important to keep your pets protected. Regularly treat them with flea prevention products recommended by the vet. This will not only help keep fleas at bay but also protect against other parasites like ticks.
Next, maintain a clean environment indoors. Vacuum frequently, paying extra attention to areas where pets spend most of their time. Don’t forget to wash pet bedding regularly as well. This is particularly important when going away on a trip. You don’t want to come back to find your house riddled with squatters who like to suck your blood!
If you suspect an infestation or notice signs such as excessive scratching or bites on yourself or your pets, get in touch and we can help.
Bedbugs
Bedbugs. Just the mention of these tiny pests is enough to send shivers down your spine. These blood-sucking invaders can be very unpleasant and difficult to get rid of so prevention really is the key here.
First and foremost, it’s important to be vigilant when travelling or staying in hotels. Bedbugs are notorious hitchhikers and can easily make their way into your luggage without you even realising it. If you are staying in an area that is having an issue with bedbugs it would be prudent to inspect hotel rooms for signs of bedbugs, such as small dark stains on sheets or mattresses.
In addition, when returning from a trip away, immediately wash all clothes on a hot cycle (maybe not your delicates!) and dry them on high heat. This will help kill any potential bedbugs that may have found their way into your belongings. If it is possible to use hard shell suitcases that you can easily whip down instead of their fabric equivalents that is ideal. Otherwise pop them in a sealed bag for a few days on returning.
Another prevention method is to invest in mattress encasements that are specifically designed to protect against bedbugs. These encasements create a barrier between the bugs and yourself, making it difficult for them to feed while also preventing them from breeding inside the mattress.
Regularly vacuuming carpets, rugs, and upholstery is another effective way to prevent bedbug infestations. Pay extra attention to cracks and crevices where they might hide.
If you suspect a bedbug infestation despite taking preventive measures, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We have specialised knowledge and tools to effectively eliminate these persistent pests before they really become a problem.
