Summers are a wonderful time for all of us. It’s a time for relaxation and we all love this much needed break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, summer also comes with its share of pest problems. Mosquitoes and ants are two of the most common pests that people find quite bothersome during the summer. With the change in temperature, summer also brings with it an increase in the amount of pests and insects. One must be well-equipped in order to deal with these bothersome pests with ease.
These pests are not only an annoyance, they can also cause a lot of other problems. Mosquitoes can disrupt your good night’s sleep and ants can be the cause of your ruined food supply. Today, we are going to look at some of the most effective ways to keep these common summertime pests at bay.
Understanding The Problem
Mosquitoes are not just an annoying presence, they are also carriers of many harmful diseases such as Zika, West Nile virus, and malaria. They thrive in warm, humid conditions and breed in stagnant water. On the other hand, ants are attracted to sweets, proteins, and fats in your home, forming colonies that can quickly become a problem if left unchecked. This makes it necessary for us to be equipped enough to deal with these unwanted pests.
Effective Tips for Mosquito Control
First, let us take a look at some foolproof tips to keep those annoying mosquitoes at bay.
- Remove Standing Water: Mosquitoes need as little as one inch of water to breed. Regularly inspect your property for standing water in plant saucers, bird baths, clogged gutters, and even small objects like bottle caps. Emptying these can significantly reduce your mosquito population.
- Natural Repellents: Consider planting mosquito-repellent plants around your home and outdoor living areas. Lavender, marigolds, citronella, and basil are not only beautiful but also effective at deterring mosquitoes. Similarly, peppermint, lemon balm, and cinnamon can deter ants. These plants offer a natural and aesthetically pleasing way to keep pests away.
- Mosquito Repellents: You can also find commercial mosquito repellents in the market. These can be applied over your skin when spacing outdoor time. These repellents act as a protective film and keep you safe from mosquito bites.
- Installing Screens: Leaving doors and windows open during the summer can act as an invitation for mosquitoes and other annoying insects to enter. If you want to enjoy the natural breeze without having to deal with these insects, you can consider installing screens over your windows and doors. This will help you protect your home from mosquitoes and other insects.
- Professional Help: Even though mosquitoes are a common occurrence and can be easily dealt with at home, if the infestation is severe and you cannot figure out what to do, it’s best to seek professional help. At Mark’s Pest Control, we provide top-notch pest control solutions for all kinds of pest troubles.
Prevention and Control of Ants
Ants are also bothersome creatures, and it can be difficult to get rid of them during the summer. Listed below are some of the most effective tips on how to keep ants away:
- Seal Points of Entry: Ants can enter your home through the tiniest of openings. Conduct a thorough inspection of your home's perimeter, looking for cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, or any other small openings that could serve as entry points. Sealing these with caulk or another appropriate material can dramatically reduce the chances of ants finding their way into your home.
- Natural Deterrents: Leveraging natural substances that repel ants is a safe, eco-friendly approach to control. Many household items can double as effective ant deterrents. For instance, vinegar, lemon juice, peppermint oil, or cinnamon can create barriers that ants are reluctant to cross. These substances can be used to wipe down surfaces or placed at potential entry points to deter ants.
- Maintain a Clean Environment: Regular cleaning is paramount in ant prevention. Sweep floors and wipe down counters daily to remove crumbs and sticky residues. Pay special attention to dining and kitchen areas, as these are prime targets for ant forays. Additionally, managing moisture by fixing leaks and ensuring good ventilation can make your home less attractive to ants, who are often drawn to damp conditions.
- Professional Ant Control: Sometimes, despite our best efforts, ants can establish a foothold in our homes. In such cases, professional pest control services become an invaluable ally. These experts can identify the specific type of ant invading your space, locate their nests, and employ targeted treatments to eradicate them. Moreover, they can provide personalised advice on preventing future infestations, tailored to your specific requirements.
While the above tips are effective in reducing and managing mosquito and ant populations, sometimes the situation calls for professional intervention. Pest control experts can offer tailored solutions, employing safe and effective treatments that consider the health of your family and the environment.
The battle against mosquitoes and ants is ongoing, but with these strategies, you can enjoy your summer without unwelcome guests. It's about being proactive, staying vigilant, and sometimes, calling in the professionals. Remember, the goal is to create a safe, comfortable environment for you and your loved ones. With a bit of effort and knowledge, you can keep your summer pest-free and enjoyable.
At Mark’s Pest Control, we are available around the clock to help you deal with all kinds of pests. We can help you effectively eliminate ants and mosquitoes from your home and enjoy a summer that’s free of pests and other annoyances. Our team of experts makes use of top of the line equipment and safe pest removal strategies to make sure we help you deal with these pests with minimal disruption to your daily life. All you need to do is give us a call at the number on our website or fill our online form and request a free quote. So, why wait? Give us a call today!