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Mosquitoes are one of the most persistent insects you might be dealing with, and their unstoppable appetite drives them to bite all the time. But, did you notice that some people attract more mosquitoes while others are not bothered so much?

If you want to find out the science behind mosquito bites and what might be attracting them the most you are on the right page.

We have all the interesting details that explain why mosquitoes bite and offer the best ways to deal with those pesky biters. Let’s jump right in!

Table of Contents

Mosquito on skin

Why Do Mosquitoes Bite?

Mosquitoes are one of the most dangerous insects on the planet but it’s good to know that only female mosquitoes bite humans and feed on their blood. Male mosquitoes like to eat fruit and flower nectar while females depend on human and animal blood for procreation. This might be a useful idea to explore while dealing with mosquito problems and their procreation process.

Mosquitoes might be small but their ability to transmit deadly diseases such as Malaria, Yellow and Dengue fever, Zika, and West Nile viruses makes them the most deadly pests. This is one of the reasons why so much research has been done and why we have all the information you need to keep mosquitoes away. Different species are attracted to different things, but there are a few common factors that seem to lure in mosquitoes everywhere, so keep on reading to find out more.

What Attracts Mosquitoes?

Before we dive into the detailed list of what attracts mosquitoes the most, let’s take a look at the research for the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association.

“Mosquito attraction responses to substances collected from human skin and placed on glass Petri dishes were studied. Mosquito response varied according to the source of the substance. Substances removed from the head and hands elicited the greatest attraction response in laboratory-reared mosquitoes. Mosquito response lasted up to 6 h when the substance was aged and was increased by warming the samples from ca. 25 degrees C to 37 degrees C. Of the 12 mosquito species studied, attraction response was greatest in Aedes aegypti.”

We can see that mosquitoes are definitely not attracted to all humans the same and a lot of the attraction depends on the smell and the temperature of the specimen. With this in mind, we have a comprehensive list of the most obvious and researched attractants that will make you a delicacy for mosquitoes.

Mosquito repellant

1. Clothes

Mosquitoes are attracted to certain colors that resemble the color of blood such as red and dark colors, and they also love floral and bright patterns. 

This means that if you want to be less appealing to mosquitoes you should wear neutral colors and loose-fitting clothes, as they can easily penetrate through the fabric and bite you if the clothes are tight enough.

2. Smell

Other than colors mosquitoes also rely on smell to find the perfect victim. 

This is why they will bite people who are sweating and exercising more, and also love to bite exposed places that have a fruity smell. In addition, if you are drinking beer it’s surely going to attract more mosquitoes as they will sense the yeasty and sweet smell on your skin, and unfortunately, pregnant women are also a great target because of the increased body temperature and blood flow.

So, you should be cautious with your perfumes and deodorants, but also try to sweat less in highly-populated areas or repel mosquitoes with airborne repellents that will mask your smell.

3. Blood type

Research tells us that mosquitoes are significantly more attracted to the O blood type and they prefer it over any other blood type in humans. These insects are more likely to land and bite people with the O blood type. If you know your blood type it’s a good idea to be extra cautious and apply more topical repellents to prevent mosquitoes from biting you and potentially transmitting diseases.
Mosquito biting

4. Standing water

Apart from direct attractions, you as an individual might have it’s also worth noting that mosquitoes like many other insects love standing water. They rely on any standing water for mating and egg development, so make sure you are not hanging around any lakes and bodies of water during summer, and that you keep your backyard dry and tidy. This can include even small water surfaces like dog bowls and puddles in the sandbox after rain.

5. Tall grass

Even though mosquitoes spend most of their time hunting and feeding they also need a place to rest and hide from predators. The tall grass and vegetation are a perfect spot for clusters of mosquitoes to hide in and wait for the opportunity to bite, feed on blood, and produce eggs.

So, in addition to avoiding tall grass areas in the summer, you also need to ensure your backyard is not cluttered, the grass is mowed and all the vegetation is trimmed and tidy. You can add a few bug zappers on your patio to lure in and kill all the mosquitoes that might be hanging around.

Find Professional Exterminators

Mosquitoes are one of the most persistent and dangerous insects that you can encounter in your home and garden. While there are solutions to deal with mosquitoes on your own, if the infestation becomes severe you should rely on professional exterminators.

The specialized teams are prepared with the right tools and experience to deal with any kind of pests, including mosquitoes. So, if you consider them to be too much of an issue for you to handle alone or you simply want to ensure the best results call your local exterminators.

Cockroaches are commonly thought of as pests, but did you realize they may also be dangerous to your health? 

These insects are known to transport and transmit infections that can cause a variety of ailments in humans. So, it’s not just unpleasant to see a roach crawling through your home, but they are actually more dangerous than other pests such as bed bugs. 

In this post, we’ll look at the link between cockroaches and food-borne pathogens and talk about how you can protect yourself and your family from these harmful bacteria.

Table of Contents

Cockroaches carrying diseases.

Cockroaches and Food Poisoning

Cockroaches can transport and spread food-borne illnesses because they scavenge for food in the garbage, sewers, and other unclean areas. They can carry hazardous bacteria and other organisms on their legs and bodies, then transfer these diseases to food or contaminate surfaces in food preparation areas when they crawl over them.

Roaches love to hang out in human homes because there is always an abundance of food and plenty of places to hide. This is especially true during winter when roaches and other pests seek shelter in your warm home.

When bacteria the roaches leave behind are consumed, they can produce a variety of food poisoning symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Food poisoning can cause major consequences such as renal failure, dehydration, and even death in extreme cases.

It is crucial to remember that not all cockroaches transmit food-borne infections and that cockroaches do not cause all cases of food poisoning. The presence of cockroaches in a food preparation area, on the other hand, is a clear symptom of inadequate hygiene and should be treated quickly to prevent the spread of potentially hazardous microorganisms.

Cockroach on food.

As Eric S Donkor researches in his study:

“Food-borne disease is a widespread and escalating public health problem globally. About a quarter of the microorganisms isolated from cockroaches are food-borne pathogens including Escherichia coli O157:H7, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Shigella dysenteriae, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhi, Rotavirus, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Cryptosporidium parvum. Thus, cockroaches could be an important reservoir and mechanical vector of food-borne pathogens.”

Food Poisoning Symptoms Caused by Cockroaches

Food poisoning symptoms vary based on the organism involved, however, some frequent symptoms include:

  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Cramps and discomfort in the stomach
  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle pain
  • Appetite loss

These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and they might emerge hours or days after eating infected food. Food poisoning can sometimes lead to more serious issues, such as renal failure, dehydration, and even death. 

If you suspect you have food poisoning, get medical assistance as soon as possible. But even if you don’t have any symptoms yet but you do notice a few roaches in your home, deal with them as soon as possible with roach glue traps or call professional pest control.

Food poisoning from roaches

What Are the Most Common Cockroach Diseases?

While not all cockroaches carry diseases, several species have been linked to a variety of disorders in humans. 

The following are some of the most frequent cockroach-borne diseases:

  • Salmonellosis is a kind of food poisoning caused by the bacterium Salmonella, which is frequently found in cockroach excrement. Diarrhea, fever, stomach pains, and vomiting are all symptoms.
  • Dysentery is an intestinal infection caused by the bacteria Shigella, which is commonly carried by cockroaches. Symptoms include bloody or mucousy diarrhea, fever, and stomach discomfort.
  • Cholera is a potentially fatal infection of the small intestine caused by the bacteria Vibrio cholera. This bacteria can be carried by cockroaches on their legs and spread to food and water sources. Watery diarrhea, vomiting, and muscular cramps are among the symptoms.
  • E. coli infection is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli). This bacterium may be carried by cockroaches on their legs and spread to food and water sources. Diarrhea, stomach pains, and vomiting are common symptoms.
  • Gastroenteritis is a broad word for stomach and intestinal inflammation. A number of infections, including those spread by cockroaches, can cause it. Diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pains are among the symptoms.

How to Prevent Cockroaches from Spreading Diseases?

Here are some suggestions to keep cockroaches from transmitting disease:

particularly in the kitchen and food preparation areas. Cockroaches and other pests will find it less appealing as a result. You can always add some Diatomaceous Earth Powder with a long nozzle duster in areas that might have roaches as it’s a safe solution for your family and pets.

To keep cockroaches from foraging for food, keep food in sealed containers and dispose of rubbish on a regular basis. Keep the leftovers in the fridge and deal with the infestation as soon as possible.

Repair any leaks or plumbing issues that might supply cockroaches with a source of moisture. To keep cockroaches out of your home, seal any holes or gaps in the walls, flooring, or baseboards.

To control and remove cockroach infestations, use bait stations, traps, or pesticides.

It’s also crucial to maintain basic kitchen hygiene, which includes thoroughly washing your hands before handling food and frequently cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and equipment. This will aid in the prevention of the spread of hazardous infections, whether carried by cockroaches or not.

Call Professional Exterminators

If you have a roach infestation, it is best to call an exterminator as soon as possible. Roaches can carry diseases and can be difficult to get rid of on your own. An exterminator will be able to assess the extent of the infestation and recommend the best course of action to get rid of the roaches and prevent them from coming back. If you see one or two roaches, it may be worth trying to get rid of them on your own, but if you are seeing several roaches regularly, it is best to call an exterminator.
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Crickets might be a great reminder that the summer is at its peak, but these loud insects are nothing but trouble when they inhabit homes. 

While there are over 900 cricket species, some of them developed a particular taste in human homes. They might be completely content in the field during the summer, but need additional shelter and food during the winter months, and unfortunately, our homes are the perfect locations.

So, if loud cricket chirping is keeping you awake at night, and you worry about the additional health risks, keep on reading to find the best ways to get rid of crickets once and for all.

Cricket

What Are House Crickets?

Crickets come in different shapes and sizes, but the most common species that you can encounter in your home is the Acheta Domesticus (Linnaeus) or house cricket. They have strong jumping legs like all other crickets, but smaller bodies between about 3/4 to 7/8 inch in length.

The loud chirping sound is produced by male crickets in an effort to attract females and quickly reproduce while the conditions are favorable. Cricket mating can produce over 400 eggs from a single female in a year, so the infestation can quickly become severe if not controlled. 

You can identify the cricket infestation if you notice a few signs such as:

  • Multiple adult crickets (a few of them is usually not a cause for alarm)
  • Famous loud chirping, especially during the night
  • Damage on your clothes, papers, and furniture (make sure it’s not from moths)

Crickets might not be dangerous like termites, but when they are hungry and in large numbers they will become quite the nuance. Loud chirping during the night, damage to your belongings, and even diseases and pathogens they can transmit are not to be taken lightly.

In addition, crickets in your garden and your home will attract other pests that feed on them such as spiders and raccoons, so it’s a good idea to go over our list of potential remedies, and even contact the local exterminators for additional help. It’s always better to deal with the pests while the numbers are low and they are not causing too much damage to your property and valuable items.

Cricket

How to Get Rid of Crickets?

Now that we are familiar with crickets, their habits, and most of all the danger they represent to your health and valuable items, it’s time to find the best solutions to get rid of them. Keep in mind that during the summer it’s normal to see a few crickets lost in your home, but if their numbers are growing make sure to act immediately before they make your home theirs.

Here are a couple of suggestions to try:

Glue Cricket Traps

One of the easiest and most efficient ways to deal with a smaller cricket infestation in your home is to use glue traps. These durable and strong adhesive papers will catch any pests that lurk around your home, and considering they are laced with additional scents to attract the crickets you don’t have to use any separate lures.

When choosing the best glue trap for crickets in your home make sure it’s non-toxic and poison-free as you can place it in high-traffic areas for up to one year.

Diatomaceous Earth Powder

Diatomaceous Earth is a natural powder that can help you with various pests including crickets, roaches, silverfish, bed bugs, and more. This unique powder dries out the exoskeleton of insects dehydrating them to death. This way you can deal with entire cricket colonies while using eco-friendly and safe solutions.

Keep in mind that it’s best to use Diatomaceous Earth powder with a duster that has a long nozzle attachment. This way you can apply the powder to all the nooks and crannies the bugs might hide in, and make the entire process less messy.

Cricket Killer Sprays

For larger cricket infestations and prolonged protection of your home and yard, it’s best to use killer sprays. The odorless and residue-free formula will kill all the pests in your home and garden, and leave a protective layer that will repel other insects from entering again.

Cricket spray

Cricket Yard Granules

For additional protection against crickets and other insects in your yard, it’s a good idea to choose granulated insect baits. The main ingredient in the granules is Boric Acid known to be efficient on crickets, ants, roaches, snails, slugs, and other pests that might find your yard and later your home the perfect breeding ground.

When dealing with any kind of pests, but crickets, in particular, it’s always the best approach to protect the entire house including your yard from the start. Most of the crickets will come from your yard to your home in search of shelter and food, so it’s very important to deal with the infestation before it becomes severe.

Call Professional Exterminators

If the cricket infestation is severe, and the damage they cause on your valuable papers, furniture, clothes, and plants is substantial it’s time to call professional exterminators. While most people are able to deal with a few crickets that come into the house on accident, and minor infestations can be eliminated with the tools, tips, and tricks mentioned above, if the situation is getting out of control it’s a good call to hire professionals.

Pest control teams in your area know how to deal with various pests, and have the experience and the knowledge, but overall they have the best and most efficient tools and chemicals. The best way to deal with any pest infestation is to act immediately, and rely on pest control if you are not able to manage the infestation on your own.

So, even though a few crickets in the garden can remind you of warm summer weather, make sure they don’t find permanent shelter in your home.

Moths might be distant relatives to butterflies but they are far more destructive to your property and belongings. Although they are important contributors to ecological balance and pollination, the developing stage of moths called the caterpillar will eat and damage your clothes, plants, and other items.

This is one of the reasons why so many people are looking for the best moth traps and finding the optimal solutions to repel or kill the moths before the damage is done.

If you are dealing with a few fliers in your home and want to make sure the moth infestation is managed properly keep on reading as we discover the best moth traps on the market. Stay tuned until the end for additional tips and tricks that will help you with pest issues in your home.

The Best Moth Traps

Now that we know a bit more about the destructive moth caterpillars you might be wondering what is the best way to get rid of them completely. 

Even though the caterpillars are the most dangerous form for your clothes and valuable items, we need to look at the bigger picture and eliminate the male moths primarily. This way you will stop the procreation cycle and end the moth infestation in your home. You will notice that most of the moth traps are based on luring the male moths with female pheromones, but keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to have the intense pheromones in the trap itself rather than buying separate lures and strips.

Here are the best moth traps on the market:

1. Clothes Traps

Moths primarily attack and feed on your clothes so the first logical step in the elimination of these pests is to set up traps in your closet. The best traps on the market are Professor Killamoth Clothes Moth Traps which include the extra sticky glue infused with pheromones.

This makes the traps easy to use and very efficient in attracting and capturing all the male moths that sense the infused pheromones. Keep in mind that once the male moths are gone the females and eggs will eventually disappear.

Simply remove the protective cover and place the clothes moth traps in your closet or hang them on the hangers for optimal success.

Photo of a moth clothes trap

2. Pantry Traps

Another location many moths love is your pantry, so make sure to place a few of Dr. Killigan’s Premium Pantry Moth Traps on the shelves. These traps also contain very strong and durable glue that will attract and capture all the male moths in your pantry.

Depending on the size of your pantry as well as the number of moths it’s always a good idea to set up multiple traps to end the infestation faster. Make sure to check on the traps occasionally to see if they are full or if the infestation is managed successfully.

3. Cedar Repellents

Moths might be resilient and resourceful but they are also sensitive to certain smells such as the smell of Eastern red cedar. This reliable and all-natural wood is one of the best ways to repel the moths from your closet and your home.

Cedar repellents come in many shapes and sizes, and the most efficient ones are usually the special rings you can place on your hangers. The aroma is pleasant and the natural ingredients are completely safe for your family and pets, but very repulsive for the moths.

There are also cubes and sachets made out of Cedar wood that you can place in drawers and shelves for the best results.

Cedar clothes repellents

4. Moth Balls

Moth balls might be the most popular and well-known solution on our list if you are looking for a way to kill all the moths, but also some other pests such as carpet beetles too. 

Modern moth balls are made with the active ingredient Paradichlorobenzene which is potent and effective, but less offensive than traditional Naphthalene mothballs. You can be sure that moth balls will kill all the moths if you place the mothballs in a tight container with the clothes.

Enoz Para Moth Balls are one of the best options on the market because they are versatile and will eliminate all the destructive moths, moth eggs & moth larvae. They are long-lasting and seasonal, but the clothes will easily air out once you unpack them.

5. Herbal Moth Repellents

If you want an all-year and natural repellant in your home to fight against pesky moths you should look into herbal solutions such as the Richards Moth Away/Herbal – Value Pack. These lavender-based sachets are easy to use, smell amazing and efficiently repel the moths from your closet.

Simply add a few sachets to your clothes, drawers, and hangers to ensure moths can sense the lavender and move away from your home. This is a perfect, safe, and natural solution that will last for a long time and make your closet smell amazing.

Call Professional Exterminators

When dealing with any kind of infestation and pests it’s always a good idea to consult with professionals while you take all the precautionary measures. Moths might not be irritating as bed bugs or dangerous as roaches, but it’s still not wise to neglect the issue and leave the moth population unmanaged.

Professional teams have the experience and the tools needed to manage and end any pest infestation you might be dealing with. And while you might be able to handle a few months on your own, always keep in mind that professionals can do it faster and prevent any further damage to your valuable items.

Find the best exterminators in your area
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Terminix might be one of the most well-known exterminator companies on the market but do you know what Terminix prices are, and if it’s worth it? We’ll discover all the details you need to know and add a few additional tips and tricks that will help you save a lot of money and get rid of pests at the same time.

So, let’s discover the Terminix price plans and which one might be the best solution for you.

What is Terminix and How Does it Work?

Terminix is one of the most popular exterminator companies in the United States, with a base in Memphis, Tennessee. This pest control giant has almost one century of experience, considering they were established in 1927 and this credibility pushes them forward.

The pest control industry might have humble beginnings but they are now dealing with all pests you can imagine including insects, birds, rodents, and even wildlife. In addition, the Terminix brand expanded to prevention and protection to offer even more to its customers.

But, even with so many services, they have fierce competition like Orkin, so you might want to know the prices before you choose the best solution for your problem.

How Much Does Terminix Cost?

Depending on various factors the Terminix cost can go anywhere from $200 up to $2.000. This massive difference in price is determined by the type and severity of the infestation, as well as the one-time option or ongoing service.

Terminix might not be the cheapest pest exterminator on the market, but they are in the business for a long time and have the reputation to back up the price.

Even though many people choose the one-time, and cheaper options, you can save quite a lot of money with the custom ongoing treatments.

Here are the Terminix prices you need to know:

  • Approximately $300 per mosquito treatment
  • Around $350 for rodent, bird, or other wildlife traps
  • Around $400 for flea and tick control
  • $500 to $1,500 for bed bug extermination - with the option to repeat the visits multiple times
  • The typical pest management package costs between $550 and $800 per year (includes satisfaction guarantee and quarterly or monthly service)
  • $2,000 or more for continuous termite inspection and prevention

Keep in mind that the prices can vary and you should ask for an estimate on the official Terminix website before making the final decision.

How Is Terminix Price Determined?

As mentioned before the price for any pest control or management treatment can vary a lot depending on a couple of factors, including:

Is Terminix’s Service Worth the Price?

Many people consider Terminix pricing to be on the high side, but they are also a trusted and well-established company with reputable results. It’s a good investment if you want to get rid of pests fast and efficiently, and it can save you a lot of money in the long run especially if you are dealing with pests that cause damage to the property.

It’s safe to say that even though Terminix prices are slightly higher they are a wise investment. It’s also a good reminder to always go for long-term solutions rather than one service offer, even when they cost more initially. 

Like with any other service on the market, it’s a good idea to look for the best price-quality ratio and always check multiple extermination companies before making the final decision. With our guide, you now know the estimated prices, and how they are formed, so it’s going to be easier to find the pest control company you need.

FAQs for Terminix

Depending on the pest at hand and the severity of the infestation the professionals will use different products in your home and on your property. While they are checked and approved to be safe, it is not suggested that children or dogs be present while the exterminator services are being offered. Always talk to the exterminators about the safety measures you need to take.

Yes, Terminix has a satisfaction guarantee that is mostly included in its annual plans and pest control. Some of the one-off services also have additional perks, so make sure to ask the agents about free treatments, assessments, and satisfaction guarantees.

Termites and ants cause billions of dollars in damage to United States homes, but there are many differences that set them apart. Even though both are considered pests, there are different approaches and methods to deal with them correctly and efficiently.

It’s not always easy to know which insect is causing the damage and eroding the value and safety of your property, but in order to fully manage the pests you first need to learn how to recognize them.

With this idea in mind, we have the perfect list that will help you distinguish termites from ants and then make the best decision about the next steps you need to take to eliminate them. Let’s go!

Termites vs. Ants

To the untrained and inexperienced eye termites and especially carpenter ants might look the same. Depending on the species some ants such as the mentioned carpenter ones are often mistaken for termites because they cause wood damage and have winged specimens while reproducing. 

Even though no pests should be taken lightly, let’s see what the main differences between termites and ants are that might help you choose the best elimination method.

Body Shape

Termites and ants might look similar but if you have the opportunity to capture one using traps you will notice a well-defined waist in ants and quite a rectangular body in termites. Termites are usually described as wider-body insects while ants of any kind have a segmented body and are pinched in the waist.

Antennae

If you are fortunate enough to capture adult specimens of any pests before the considerable damage is done you can take a closer look at the small antennae on the head. Ants always have bent or elbowed antennae, while termites have straight antennae. This detail, even though it’s quite small, can help you determine what pests you are dealing with.

Color

Most of the time if you see a lot of insects and wonder if you have ants or termites the answer will be ants. Why? Because the termites will often hide and cause damage in walls, wood, and construction beams without being seen. 

In addition, the termites are lighter, almost translucent in color while ants usually have reddish or black bodies and heads. With all of the other features mentioned on our list, it will be easier to distinguish termites from ants.

Wings

You might not know it, but some ants and termites have 4 wings. This feature can help you make a difference between pests, and reveal what you are dealing with. Termites have proportional and equal wings that fall off easily, which means that you have termites if you see a lot of discarded wings around your home.

On the other hand, ants have wings that are not the same size considering their back wings are shorter.

Lifespan

This feature might be less significant for the initial categorization of pests in your home, but it’s good to know that ants live a significantly shorter life than termites. While both create colonies and have the queen for reproduction the ants live a few months on average. On the other hand, the termite queen can live for a few decades and the rest of the termites for a few years, meaning one colony can cause considerable damage to property and stay there for decades.

Wood Damage

Some ants such as carpenter ants will damage the wood and they are most of the time compared or mistaken for termites. But even though both species damage the wood, they don’t do it in the same way or for the same reason.

Termites eat wood and will attack anything based on cellulose. They consume the wood and create elaborate but rough tunnels filled out with mud. So, if you notice mud tunnels and hollow wood you are dealing with termites.

Carpenter ants, on the other hand, build nests in the wood and don’t consume it. So, when carpenter ants dig out the smooth tunnels they leave small residue or piles of sawdust behind.

How to Get Rid of Termites and Ants?

Now that we know how to differentiate ants and termites, you might be wondering what is the best way to get rid of the infestation fast. One thing is for sure the best way to deal with such hazardous and persistent pests is to call the exterminators. The professional teams have the experience and the tools needed to deal with any kind of pests you might have in your home. So, if you do notice any signs of damage or see adult specimens of any insects make sure to contact them.

In the meantime, there are some ready-made solutions on the market that can help you manage and control pests. 

Here are a few recommendations for ants and termites:

Ants

Termites

FAQs

While it’s not easy to compare, ants are known to be much more aggressive and persistent than termites. If it comes to resources and nest defense the ants are much more likely to wipe out entire termite colonies.

Both termites and carpenter ants are known to cause considerable damage in homes, but overall the termites are faster and will deteriorate the construction more efficiently. They are one of the most destructive insects and cause billions of dollars in damage each year.

Unlike termites that consume the wood carpenter ants eat other insects and high-fructose items. They are attracted to sweet things such as honey, sugar and syrup, and food leftovers, but they will eat smaller insects as well or drink the honeydew when needed.

Have you noticed a few ants in your home? This can be a cause for alarm because ants are super organized and will leave a trail for other ants to follow if there is food and shelter. This means your home can soon be infested with ants if you don’t deal with them right away.

But, with so many ant-killing options on the market, you might be wondering what’s the best solution.

If you have pets you need to take extra precautions when using any ant killers, because the harmful ingredients can be dangerous for mammals, including your cats and dogs. That’s why we are discovering the top 5 pet-safe ant killers that will help you eliminate pests and keep your furry friends safe.

Ant killers

What Are Pet Safe Ant Killers?

With so many ant repellents and ant-killing solutions on the market, it’s hard to decide which one is the most efficient but at the same time safe for your pets. Luckily there are many options with safe ingredients you can use in your home and garden, but it’s always a good idea to monitor the baits and traps, and prevent accidental ingestion by your pets.

Here are a couple of ingredients that are considered natural or safe for your pets:

  • Diatomaceous earth
  • Spinosad
  • Indoxacarb
  • Imidacloprid
  • Borax or boric acid

If you see those ingredients on the list chances are the product is safer for your pets, although always follow the instructions and never let your pets eat the ant killers.

Some ingredients such as Hydramethylnon, Bifenthrin, and Thiamethoxam should be avoided because they can cause excess salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, pain, and skin irritation. Most of the time even those ingredients are safe in smaller quantities, so all you need to do is monitor or restrict your pet from the infested area.

Top 5 Pet Safe Ant Killers

Terro Ant Killer Bait Station

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The Harris Diatomaceous Insect Killer

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MDXconcepts Organic Pest Spray

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Syngenta – Optigard Ant Bait Gel

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EcoRaider Ant Killer

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Terro Liquid Ant Baits are an excellent choice for killing household ants without harming your pets. This ant killer comes in ready-made, plastic bait stations that can be placed near ant trails or in ant-infested areas. The bait is easy to open and set up, and you don’t need to worry about the mess.

Terro liquid ant baits contain Borax as the main ingredient. It’s not the most natural and safest option, but it’s safe enough to have around your pets, just make sure they don’t ingest it in large quantities.

It doesn’t kill ants right away, but it slowly kills their digestive systems, giving them time to return to the bait a few more times. After trying the bait, ants take a dose of forage back to the nest, which contributes to bait spreading and circulating within the ant colony, killing even the insects you can’t see.

Diatomaceous Earth powder is one of the best and most natural solutions for ants, roaches, silverfish, and bed bugs. The Harris Diatomaceous Earth killer is especially effective and comes in a convenient puffer bottle for easy application.

The Diatomaceous Earth powder will dry out the exoskeleton of all insects that come in touch with it and destroy entire colonies in a matter of days. Keep in mind that you should re-apply the powder for the best effects, but rest easy because your pets are completely safe.

 

MDXconcepts Organic Pest Spray is a completely organic and safe solution based on natural ingredients such as essential peppermint oil. This spray will act as an ant repellant and disrupt the trail they leave behind for other ants to follow.

In addition, this spray can deal with smaller infestations and kill ants because it contains sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS, best known as liquid soap. While it might not be the most effective solution on the list, it’s one of the safest that you can use even in your kitchen.

Optigard Ant Bait Gel is one of the most popular and effective solutions on the market that will help you deal with ants. The packaging resembles a syringe and you need to apply a couple of drops on the trail where you notice the ants.

The Optigard ant bait gel contains Thiamethoxam .010% and it will take some time and practice for the right application and full effect on the ants. But, it’s considered safe for dogs and cats, as long as they don’t ingest too much of the solution.

The EcoRaider Ant Killer is a natural ant repellent and killer that will disrupt their trails and kill most of the ants that are already in your home. While this spray will deal with ants it’s completely non-toxic to humans, cats, dogs, and other pets you might have.

It’s also good to know that this spray is going to kill ants naturally, but it’s strong enough to deal with fire ants also. It’s easy to apply but some people might be overwhelmed by the citrus smell, on the other hand, the scent will protect your home for a long time.

Call Ant Exterminators

The solutions we mentioned in this detailed article will help you deal with ants and keep your pets safe, but if the infestation is severe you should call the professionals. Ants are very persistent, cause property damage and even have painful bites, so you should deal with the infestation as soon as possible.

Once you choose one of the top picks we made for you make sure to follow up with all the baits and traps, and ensure the colonies are completely eradicated.

Bed bugs are one of the most common and persistent pests you might encounter in your home, but do you know exactly what bed bugs look like?

We’ve all heard about itchy bites and sleepless nights caused by bed bugs, but have you actually seen one in person? There are a few bugs that resemble bed bugs, therefore we offer a full guide to assist you to recognize them.

Identification is critical for successful pest management because it is important to use the right tools and methods for the right pests.

Photo of bed bugs

What Does an Adult Bedbug Look Like?

Because bed bugs are extremely sneaky and small, you might have to use glue traps or interceptors to catch a few before determining the extent of the infestation. 

Adult bed bugs are distinguished by the following characteristics:

  • They are 3/16 - 1/4 inch long
  • Bodies are usually flat and oval-shaped (sometimes swollen if they’ve fed recently)
  • Bed bugs are brown or reddish-brown in color
  • They have six legs, segmented antennae, and fine hairs on their body
  • Bed bugs look small but they emit a strong musky odor that lingers in the air

Bed bugs, due to their size, may hide in any nook and crevice conceivable. Your bed, mattress, bedframe, walls, and floors are all examples of this. However, unlike roaches, bed bugs do not establish colonies and instead live in tiny groups scattered around your bedroom.

This can make it difficult to notice the actual bed bugs, and if you have a lot of itchy bites in the morning, you might suspect you have an infestation.

What Do Nymphs Look Like?

Young bed bugs are also called nymphs and they are slightly different looking than adult bed bugs. You can recognize the nymphs for their pale almost translucent color. 

Even though they are even harder to notice the nymphs will hide in your bed and soon be mature enough to feed. Once they have a blood meal their bodies will change color from bright red to brownish in time.

Nymphs develop in several stages, and it will take a couple of days for the adult bed bugs to be fully developed. But, this means the infestation can become severe in a matter of weeks, so it’s best to contact the exterminators as soon as you notice any signs of bed bug infestation.

What Do Bed Bug Eggs Look Like?

Bed bug eggs are the hardest to find and identify primarily because they are the size of a pinhead. Additionally, the pearl-white color of bed bug eggs has made them practically invisible to humans.

Keep in mind though, just because you can’t find the eggs doesn’t mean they are not there and that you stopped the infestation. Bed bugs demand persistence and the right tools to be completely eliminated.

Bed bug life cycle.

Where Do Bed Bugs Hide?

If you want to confirm that you have a bed bug infestation and you now know what bed bugs look like, you should focus on their hiding spots. As previously said, bed bugs are so small that they can make any tiny location their home, and because they prefer to be near to their meal, or in this case, you, they are most likely lurking in the mattress or your bed.

Here are a few locations you should look for bed bugs:

  • Bed frame
  • Mattress and all the seams
  • Pillows and sheets
  • Behind the bed, walls, and floors
  • Other furniture in the room
  • Electric sockets
  • Inside curtains and curtain rods
  • Behind chipped paint or wallpapers

Use a strong flashlight to examine all the hiding places, and put an interceptor trap under your bed to capture specimens and confirm the infestation.

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs?

Bed bug traps under the bed.

Now that we are familiar with bed bug appearance and you had a chance to see a few bed bug photos it should be easier to identify them. Once you are sure you are dealing with a bed bug infestation here are a couple of ways to manage it and completely eliminate the pests from your home:

  1. Use interceptor traps
  2. Set up a few glue bed bug traps
  3. Vacuum and clean your mattress
  4. Spray all surfaces with the bed bug-killing spray
  5. Use specialized laundry detergents
  6. Call professional exterminators

Bed bug infestations are not to be taken lightly, and the best results are often achieved if you react immediately. In the beginning, you can set up a few interceptors and glue traps, to confirm the infestation, lower the number of bites you get each night, and evaluate the severity of the infestation.

Additionally, there are also great eco-friendly solutions on the market that will kill all the bed bugs in your bed, sheets, furniture, and mattress without harsh chemicals. This way you can be sure your family is safe and the bed bugs are completely eradicated.

In case the infestation is severe and you can’t manage the bed bugs on your own it’s always a good idea to call professional help and rely on exterminators for help.

Conclusion

Bed bugs are persistent and very resilient creatures that can hide in the smallest crevices in your bed, mattress, walls, and furniture. With our detailed guide, you now know how bed bugs look and where to find them.

And with additional tips and tricks, you will end the infestation faster and more efficiently.

It’s a well-known fact that bed bugs interrupt your good night’s sleep, but are they also active during the day, and if so how to find them when the sun is out?

This article will help you confirm and evaluate the bed bug infestation as well as teach you valuable tips and tricks you can use to find them during the day.

So, if you are tired of waking up with itchy bites every morning, let’s get rid of the pesky bed bugs once and for all.

Finding bed bugs.

Where Bed Bugs Hide During the Day?

Bed bugs love to stay close to their next meal, and unfortunately, that means they will stay in your room, bed, and mattress and wait for you to come. Bed bug evolution allowed them to create feeding patterns that are compatible with hosts so they will bite you while you sleep.

On the other hand, bed bugs will hide during the day and wait for the next best opportunity. 

Considering how small and flat they are, bed bugs are the hiding places are unlimited, and anywhere is good enough as long as they are close. The bed bugs also don’t form colonies and nests like cockroaches, so you can find smaller groups all over your home.

Most of the time you can find bed bugs during the day on:

  • Your sheets and pillows
  • The mattress and bed frame
  • Every seam and label
  • Furniture, covers, and blankets
  • Nooks and crannies in the wall and floor
  • Electrical sockets

Bed bugs mainly stay hidden during the day because there is no temptation or host to feed on, but if you decide to take a nap you will most likely have the opportunity to capture some adult bed bugs.

Do Bed Bugs Feed During the Day?

Bed bugs are considered nocturnal creatures, meaning they mostly feed during the night. But, that doesn’t mean they don’t bite you during the daytime naps. 

Bed bugs are attracted to the heat our bodies emit and the carbon dioxide we exhale, so they are not particularly picky about the time of the day when they are hungry. The only reason why so many bed bug bites occur during the night is that the host is most likely lying still and sleeping. This means undisturbed feeding time for the bed bugs.

Their feeding habits as the researchers suggest are based on instinct and food availability, so whenever you as a host are around some bed bugs will try to bite you.

How to Find Bed Bugs During the Day?

Now that we are familiar with the eating habits and the hiding places of bed bugs it’s easier to locate them even during the day. Keep in mind that sometimes daylight is not enough to discover small bed bugs and the microscopic traces they leave behind, so use a flashlight.

Looking for bed bugs in the mattress.

Here are a few suggestions to find bed bugs during the day:

Follow Bedbug Tracks

Bed bugs might be small but the marks they leave behind can be quite distinctive. Most of the time you will notice blood stains on your sheets from bites and squished bed bugs. This can help you confirm the infestation and even find the most populated hiding places.

In addition to blood stains, bed bugs leave dark feces and small clear bed bug eggs, so make sure to look closely for clues.

Inspect the Bed

The previous step will take you one step closer to confirming that you are dealing with bed bugs, and also provide you with enough clues for the next step – inspecting the mattress. 

Your comfortable and clean mattress is the perfect hiding place for bed bugs. They will hide in the seams, under the mattress cover, in the baseboard, and anywhere in between. Use the flashlight to take a closer look, inspect all the edges and make sure to include all the potential hiding places, no matter how small they might look.

Check the Bedbug Traps

One of the best ways to confirm the bed bug infestation, lower the number of bites you get each night, and capture them even during the day is to use bed bug traps. The most efficient are interceptor traps and sticky traps with adhesive.

Interceptor traps are placed under each bed leg and they capture all the bed bugs that want to climb into your bed to feed. During the day it’s even easier to see all the bed bugs caught in these pitfall traps, to clean them, and set them under the bed once again.

As for the glue traps they work amazingly for all the bed bugs that might be hiding in the mattress, bed, and bed frame. These sleek and easy-to-use traps will help you capture all the night crawlers and get rid of them the next day.

A hand placing a glue bed bug trap under the bed.

Look in All the Hiding Places

If the infestation is severe the hiding places that bed bugs choose during the day will expand. You will be able to find them in the holes in the floor, nooks in the walls, behind the wallpapers, and even in sockets. 

Finding bed bugs during the day in places that are not on the bed, mattress, or close to it means you are dealing with a serious infestation. At this point, it’s best to rely on professional pest control and deal with the pests in the most efficient way.

Setting up traps and dealing with bed bugs on your own is completely reasonable and possible, but some severe cases do need additional help from exterminators.

Are you dealing with a spider infestation?

Before you consider selling your home we have a couple of solutions that will help you get rid of spiders and other pests fast. Spiders might be one of the most common pests you find in US homes, but that doesn’t make them any more desirable. 

So, if you want to learn how to kill spiders, and keep your home bug-free, stay tuned to the end, as we have only the best tips and tricks of the trade.

Picture of a spider.

Common Types of Spiders

There are over 50,000 spider species, but only a few of them are commonly found in households. Most of the time spiders are not interested in humans and they are pretty harmless, but there are a few venomous species you should stay away from.

Here are some of the most common spiders you can encounter:

  • Brown Recluse
  • Wolf Spider
  • Yellow Sac Spider
  • Black Widow
  • Hobo Spider
  • Jumping Spider
  • Grass Spider

Depending on the climate and your location different spiders can find your home a perfect place to live and procreate. Before getting rid of spiders it’s a good idea to get familiar with the species so you can avoid the dangerous ones and leave the severe infestation to professionals to handle.

5 Ways to Get Rid of Spiders

Spiders love to invade homes because there are plenty of dark and secluded places to hide and the food supply is endless if you have other pests such as ants, moths, or flies. But, even though not all spiders are dangerous, you should get rid of them as soon as possible.

Here are the best ways to deal with a spider infestation:

1. Remove Cobweb

As soon as you notice the fine cobwebs in your home or even on your porch you need to remove them. It’s best to use a strong vacuum cleaner and avoid contact with spiders.

After you remove the cobweb apply some type of eliminator spray that will prevent spiders from making new webs and protect you long-term.

2. Set Up Glue Traps

Spiders and other crawlers in your home can easily be caught in high-quality glue traps. They are easy to assemble and place in the right spot, and if you choose the right ones there is no fear of pesticides or any other harmful chemicals.

As a bonus, you can capture many different bugs with glue traps, including roaches, ants, and other pests.

Spider traps.

3. Use Spider-Killing Sprays

If the spider infestation is severe and you need an instant solution that will kill all the spiders and protect your home from re-infestations there are a few spider sprays on the market.

Considering the spider killing sprays are strong, always follow the instructions on the packaging and use only reputable brands.

4. Repel Spiders

Spiders have keen senses and this is one of the reasons why they don’t tolerate lemongrass, rosemary, or citronella essential oils. This means that spider repellents with a combination of natural ingredients and scents can be your best choice to prevent re-infestation.

So, once you manage the infestation and you are sure all the spiders are gone you should protect your home and property with a few cleverly placed repellents and traps.

5. Call Pest Control

If your spider or pest infestation is out of control, or you simply don’t want to deal with it, it’s always a good idea to hire expert exterminators. It’s not always easy or even safe to capture all the spiders in your home considering some species can be quite dangerous. 

This is one of the reasons to rely on a reputable and experienced team of professionals that have the tools and the knowledge needed to deal with any pests safely and efficiently.

Photo of a spider and its web.

Final Thoughts

To recap, there are many spider species that love your home, but be careful as some of them can be quite dangerous. With our detailed list, you now have the knowledge and the right tools to use to end the infestation and even protect your home from spiders long-term.

If you consider the infestation to be severe or you are dealing with some venomous spiders it’s always a good idea to hire professional teams of exterminators. They have just what you need to efficiently get rid of all the pests in your home.