So how do they end up in my house?
Well, pests are very simple creatures that will continue to search for food at all times – and sometimes, that search leads them inside your home. That’s how you end up with mice, ants and/or cockroaches.
That’s it then? I’m just unlucky?
Not necessarily. There’s a good chance your lifestyle or habits played a role in this infestation.
What could I have done to cause this to happen?
I’m glad you asked. Here are some possibilities:
- You don’t keep the kitchen clean: To keep your home truly pest-free, the kitchen has to be immaculate. It should be cleaned thoroughly every night, with surfaces wiped down, floors swept and trash disposed of outdoors. A clean kitchen is devoid of food particles, which attract cockroaches.
- You eat in other areas of the home: Come on, you know food is meant to stay in the kitchen. When you start to take it into other rooms, crumbs will inevitably fall to the ground. And who do you think will help you pick up those crumbs? Cockroaches.
- Your perimeter isn’t secure: The cockroaches have to find a way inside, and usually that’s in the form of a small hole or crack in the wall, or a poorly sealed window or doorframe. Search the exterior walls for cracks, and seal any you find with caulking. Additionally, inspect the seals around your doors and windows. If air is getting in, then pests can get in, too. Purchase some weather stripping to eliminate the problem.
- You have clutter in your storage areas: Everybody has a garage or closet that’s filled with excess stuff; mostly things you just don’t need right now. Well, if that stuff is being kept in boxes on the ground, it offers plenty of hiding space for roaches. Try to remove clutter from the ground and place boxes or other items on shelves instead. Cockroaches will look for any dark place to seek shelter, especially if it’s damp.