When pests invade our homes, misinformation can spread as rapidly as the pests themselves. From old wives’ tales about what repels unwanted critters to DIY remedies passed down through generations, there’s no shortage of pest control myths that don’t work.
By separating fact from fiction, you can protect your property by taking the right steps. The best way to do that is to contact a professional pest control company like Pest Control Unlimited to handle your existing pest problem and provide preventative solutions against future infestations. Here are some of the most common pest control myths debunked.
Myth #1: Cats Are Sufficient for Rodent Control
It’s a popular belief that having a cat prowling around the house is all you need to keep rodents at bay. However, while cats can catch mice and rodents, they can’t eliminate an infestation hiding in the walls. Additionally, rodents can give birth to up to a dozen pups every one to two months, so a cat is unlikely to catch as quickly as the population grows.
To effectively control a rodent infestation, you need a comprehensive and consistent approach to protect your property. This includes sealing entry points, eliminating open food sources, and strategically deploying traps or baits regularly.
Myth #2: Ultrasonic Repellents Are the Best Solution
Plenty of ultrasonic repellent products claim to be a non-toxic and eco-friendly way of warding off pests on your property. The claim is that the high-frequency sound waves irritate pests and drive them away. However, these aren’t a consistently effective method to ward off pests.
These sound waves only affect the nearby areas since they can’t penetrate walls or furniture blocking the way. The waves may initially ward off pests, but most devices aren’t powerful enough to change typical pest behavior. Over time, they can become accustomed to the sound and ignore it.
Myth #3: Bed Bugs Only Infest Dirty Homes
When some people think of bed bug infestations, they might imagine it happens in poorly maintained homes or businesses that don’t invest in quality cleaning solutions. However, bed bugs can strike at even the cleanest properties. All it takes is one unwitting person or pet to pick up a bed bug from a hotel, public space, or another person’s home and bring it into their property to cause an infestation.
Bed bugs aren’t necessarily attracted to dirty spaces and are more attracted to warmth and human blood – factors that have nothing to do with cleanliness. It doesn’t matter if your property is a five-star hotel, luxury apartment, or a well-kept home. If you see signs or suspect a bed bug infestation, contact a professional pest control company to inspect and eliminate bed bugs.
Myth #4: DIY Pest Control Products Are As Good As Professional Services
Supermarkets and hardware stores are stocked with various DIY pest control products, from sprays and traps to powders and baits. While these products may offer a reprieve from pests, they often fail to address the root cause of the infestation and may contain harsh chemicals that pose risks to humans and pets.
On the other hand, professional pest control technicians undergo rigorous training and have access to specialized equipment and treatment methods that aren’t available to the public. They understand the behavior and biology of pests and can design solutions that strategically eliminate pests efficiently while minimizing the risks to humans, pets, and the property’s structure. DIY products are cheaper, but professional pest control services offer lasting solutions that save time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Myth #5: High-Rise Units Are Free of Pests
Many people believe living in homes several stories away from the ground floor makes their homes immune to pests. However, no matter which floor your apartment or condominium is, there is always a risk of pests entering your property.
Rats can climb high areas and squeeze into the smallest holes. Flying pests can be attracted to scents in your property and access through windows and gaps. Bed bugs can latch onto unsuspecting humans and pets and enter through your clothes or bags.
Protect Your Property From Pesky, Unwanted Guests with Pest Control Unlimited
Don’t let pest control myths dictate your approach to managing infestations. By separating fact from fiction and relying on science-based solutions, you can protect your home or business from unwanted intruders.
Pest Control Unlimited is your reliable service provider for effective and lasting pest control solutions. Serving homes and businesses in select areas in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, we offer competitive pricing to give you the best value. Take the first steps to protect your property through our personalized treatment plans. Get in touch with us today for a free quote on our services.
