To prevent pests from taking up residence in your home, the old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” holds true. Vermin, like all living things, are attracted to places where food, water, and shelter are readily available. If you already have a pest problem, contact an exterminator before they have the chance to multiply. However, there are also methods you can use to discourage them from entering your house in the first place.       

What to Avoid to Keep Critters Away

1. Allowing Garbage Bins to Overflow

Insects and rodents are attracted to garbage, so securely tie all trash bags and place them in bins with sturdy, well-fitting lids. This creates a double barrier through which the smell of trash can’t easily escape, cutting down on the chances of pests catching a whiff. 

2. Letting Clutter Pile Up

Closets, cupboards, and storage sheds jam-packed with items provide plenty of cozy hiding places for roaches, spiders, and rodents. To avoid the need for an exterminator, keep these spaces tidy. Donate unwanted or unused items to charitable organizations. Recycle outdated newspapers and magazines. If you absolutely must hold on to something for sentimental reasons, store it in a sealed plastic container.

3. Neglecting the Landscaping

Pest management efforts shouldn’t be limited to the inside of the home. Overgrown hedges, lawns, and other vegetation also provide attractive hideouts for critters. Be sure to keep your yard neat and trimmed, and keep bushes and shrubs about two to three feet away from your house. Exterminators can also usually create a chemical barrier that discourages pets from crossing. 

4. Leaving Dirty Dishes in the Sink

Roaches and other vermin love to feast on the leftover food stuck to dirty dishes, so don’t leave unwashed dishes in the sink overnight. For even better pest control, be sure to also clean up crumbs, spills, and open food containers on countertops before turning in for the night.           

5. Putting Off Small Repairs

Ripped screens in windows or doors offer ways for insects and other critters to crawl into your house. Have these repaired and apply weather stripping or caulk to other gaps to bar them from these points of entry. 

If you have unwanted critters in your home, call on the exterminators at AAA Termite & Pest Control in Kaneohe, HI, to take care of the problem. For over 40 years, this family-owned and -operated company has provided quick, effective, and safe pest control treatments to residents and business owners of O’ahu. They pride themselves on delivering excellent customer service at affordable prices. For more information about their offerings, visit their website or call (808) 247-5533 to schedule an appointment.