Look under your refrigerator and stove.
You will need: a flashlight, a broom and a mop.
And after you’ve recovered from the shock, clean up whatever is under there! All the food crumbs that fall under these appliances over time create a buffet for mice, roaches, ants and other pests.
Pest-proof your pantry.
You will need: glass/metal containers with lids.
Food containers like cereal boxes and bags of sugar are really easy for pests like roaches, mice and ants to get into. Wipe down the insides of your cabinets, and put foods like flour, sugar, nuts and dried fruits in glass or metal containers with tight lids.
Low-cost tip: save glass jars from the food products you buy, then wash and reuse them to store food!
Keep ‘em OUT!
You’ll need: a tube of caulk and coarse steel wool.
The best defense against pests is to make sure they can’t get into your house in the first place. Use steel wool or caulking to fill holes or gaps under sinks, behind appliances and anywhere pipes go into the walls. Make sure exterior doors seal properly and screens are in good condition.
Bonus tip: Get rid of cardboard. Cockroaches can hitchhike into your house (and even live off the glue) in the box.
CLUTTER!
You’ll need: storage bins with lids.
We’ve all got a cabinet, a drawer, a closet or a room that holds everything we don’t have a place for. Unfortunately, it’s a perfect place for mice, roaches, spiders and ants to make a home!
Organize your stuff on shelves and in containers. Keep craft supplies and other messy items in bins with tight lids.
Bonus tip: stuff your plastic grocery bags into empty paper towel tubes to keep them neat and save space.
CHOOSE WISELY when it comes to pest control products.
Pesticides are poisons, and some pesticides can put your family’s health at risk. If you’ve tried these steps and still have a pest problem, here are some additional least-toxic tips and alternatives!
If you prefer to buy products, look for low-risk baits, gels and traps, and follow directions carefully. Use double-sided tape to put pest baits and traps exactly where you want, and away from kids and pets. Unlike sprays and foggers, these products allow you to control how much pesticide you use, and where it goes.
