Termites, ants, and cockroaches are all pests you don’t want in your home. Unfortunately, you’ve noticed some signs of an infestation and you’re not sure what to do. The exterminators at Bugout Termite & Pest Control, a full-service pest extermination company located in Glen Burnie, MD, know this problem all too well. While it’s best to have a professional check your home, there are some do-it-yourself techniques that may help.

Here are three safe ways to keep pests outside:

• Termites: These nasty little buggers like to burrow down into the wood and slowly eat away at your home. There are two easy ways to eliminate them. The first involves direct sunlight. If you find termites in a movable piece of furniture — for example, a chair or couch — simply put the item outside in the sun for two or three days. The second way uses orange oil. In dark areas, drill a small hole in the infested wood and pour a tiny amount of pure orange essential oil in the hollow spaces. Avoid getting the oil on your skin or near your eyes, as it can cause irritation. Orange oil destroys the cell membranes of termites, and you should see results within one week.
• Cockroaches: If you see cockroaches in or around your home, it’s best to call a pest extermination team immediately. To eliminate the bugs you see, try making a cockroach trap at home. Place a small piece of banana inside a glass jar, then rub some petroleum jelly on the inside rim of the glass. Put the traps around your home, specifically near pipes or sinks. The roaches will run into the glass jar looking for food, but won’t be able to get past the slippery lip. This is a good way to determine where these pests are hiding so you can show the exterminator.
• Ants: To get rid of ants, just open up your spice cabinet. That’s right — cinnamon, dry mint, or cloves are all substances used to deter these little bugs. Sprinkle one (or all) of these herbs and spices where you see ants, then clean around the area with a solution of white vinegar and water. The mixture will remove the trail ants leave to help guide their buddies to new food sources.

You can use any of these methods to safely remove common pests from your home. But for a more permanent solution, it’s best to contact the pest extermination professionals at Bugout Termite & Pest Control. From bedbug and cockroach extermination to ant control, these professionals handle it all. Call (410) 760-6065 to schedule a free estimate. Visit the website for more information on residential pest control services, and read what happy customers have to say on Facebook.