The ultimate guide to pest control: The do's and don'ts for effective pest management

The ultimate guide to pest control: The do's and don'ts for effective pest management

Updated on July 25, 2024

Welcome to Dr. Killigan's ultimate guide on pest control, where we delve into the world of effective pest management. Keeping those pesky house bugs at bay is essential for a harmonious living environment.

In this guide, we'll explore effective strategies and identify specific solutions for common household pests

The do's of pest control

1. Implement prevention measures

Consider these proactive steps to keep your home pest-free:

  • Seal cracks and gaps: Thoroughly inspect and seal any cracks, gaps or openings in your home’s structure to prevent insects and rodents from entering. Pay special attention to areas where utilities and pipes enter the home, as these are common entry points for pests.

  • Store food properly: Always keep your food in sealed containers and ensure that pantry shelves are clean and free from crumbs or spills. This practice deprives pests of easy access to nourishment and significantly reduces the risk of infestations in vulnerable areas such as your pantry.

  • Eliminate standing water: Remove breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other insects by ensuring there are no areas of standing water around your home. Regularly check and clear gutters, plant saucers and other objects where water may accumulate.

  • Use moth traps: To proactively detect and manage moth populations, deploy Dr. Killigan’s Clothing Moth Traps and Pantry Moth Traps in susceptible areas of your home. Place these traps in closets, wardrobes and pantries where moths are likely to be found. This strategic placement helps catch moths early, preventing them from establishing an infestation and protecting your clothes and food.
Dr. Killigan's Pantry Moth Trap

2. Perform regular cleaning and maintenance

Maintaining a clean and orderly home is crucial for effective pest management. Here are key practices to incorporate:

  • Maintain general cleanliness: Keep your home clean and clutter-free. Regularly clean all surfaces— especially in the kitchen and bathroom—where food particles and moisture can accumulate. Vacuum carpets frequently, mop floors and ensure that trash is promptly sealed and disposed of. Additionally, organize storage areas and avoid piles of clothes or paper that can provide hiding spots for pests.

  • Trim and tidy yards and gardens: Regularly trim vegetation and properly dispose of yard waste. Keeping your yard well-manicured helps prevent overgrowth where pests can nest and breed, reducing the likelihood of infestations near your home.

  • Use residual sprays: Apply Six Feet Under inside your trash cans, recycle bins and other areas where food odors attract pests. This product not only neutralizes odors but also leaves a residual effect that helps deter insects and pests.

3. Use natural and non-toxic repellents

Embracing non-toxic solutions helps prevent harm to your family and the environment while effectively repelling pests. 

using-essential-oils
  • Essential oils: Utilize natural deterrents such as peppermint, rosemary and cinnamon oils to repel a variety of bugs. 
    *Peppermint oil is particularly effective against spiders, ants and mosquitoes due to its strong scent that overwhelms pests’ sensitive smell receptors. *Rosemary oil is known to repel flies and mosquitoes and can be used in gardens to protect plants. *Cinnamon oil repels insects and has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties that help prevent mold and mildew in damp areas of your home.

  • Cedar Planks: Employ Cedar Planks in closets and drawers to naturally repel common clothes moths. The natural oils in cedar wood emit a fragrance that is pleasing to humans but repulsive to moths, effectively deterring them from laying eggs on your garments. Tip: To maintain their effectiveness, lightly sand the cedar planks annually or spritze a few drops of Cedar Ward oil spray to rejuvenate the scent, ensuring long-lasting protection against moths.

  • Dust to Dust: Apply Dust to Dust Plant-Powered Insect Powder along baseboards, in corners and under appliances to create an effective barrier against crawling insects. This natural insecticide powder works by dehydrating insects that come into contact with it, providing a long-lasting defense. Tip: Be sure to reapply the powder periodically, especially after cleaning, to maintain an uninterrupted protective barrier around your home.

4. Know your enemies 

Equip your home with tailored strategies to manage and prevent specific pests, including ants, cockroaches, bed bugs, mosquitoes, flies, spiders and moths.

Here is targeted advice for each of these common house bugs:

eliminate-standing-water

The don'ts of pest control

1. Don’t use toxic chemicals

Avoiding harmful substances is crucial for safe pest control.

  • Avoid harmful pesticides: To protect your health and the environment, steer clear of toxic chemicals commonly found in many pesticides. These substances can lead to a range of health issues, from acute symptoms like skin irritation and respiratory problems to more severe chronic conditions. They can also negatively impact wildlife and pollute ecosystems. Instead, opt for eco-friendly alternatives like Dr. Killigan's that effectively manage pest problems.

  • Say no to mothballs: While mothballs are a traditional solution for warding off pests like moths and silverfish, they contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene—chemicals that can be harmful to humans, pets and the environment. Exposure to these substances can cause health issues ranging from respiratory problems and skin irritation to more severe effects like damage to red blood cells. Use Cedar Planks Clothes Moth Repellent as a natural and safe alternative.

2. Don’t ignore early signs of infestation

Taking prompt action is essential when dealing with house bugs. Ignoring the early signs of infestation—such as seeing the occasional pest or finding droppings—can allow the problem to escalate, leading to more extensive and challenging infestations. Early detection allows for simpler and often more natural methods of pest control, reducing the need for harsh chemicals. By addressing the issue at the first hint of trouble—whether it's a few ants on the counter or a single moth near the pantry—you can prevent extensive damage and manage the situation before pests have a chance to multiply, ensuring a swift return to a pest-free home.

For quick reference, here are helpful guides from our blog on managing common pests effectively:

Each guide offers tailored advice and strategies to tackle these pests efficiently.

3. Don’t use unsustainable practices

Opt for pest control methods that effectively manage infestations while minimizing environmental impact. By choosing Dr. Killigan’s, which promotes non-toxic, plant-based ingredients, you not only protect your home but also contribute to the preservation of our planet. These sustainable practices ensure that the solutions are safe for both people and pets, and they support the health of the environment, allowing us to safeguard nature for future generations. By selecting eco-friendly options, you play a crucial role in promoting a healthier, more sustainable approach to pest control.

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