Essential Summer Pest Control Tips for a Bug-Free Home
Essential Summer Pest Control Tips for a Bug-Free Home
Summer brings warm weather and sunshine, but it also invites pests eager to invade your outdoor spaces. Try these proven strategies to keep bugs and critters at bay all season long.
1. Circulate Water
Ensure water features like ponds, birdbaths, or pools have fresh, moving water. Stagnant water attracts mosquitoes, but they avoid laying eggs in flowing water.
2. Inspect Structures
Regularly check gutters, roofing, and siding for nests or rot. Replace damaged wood and clear organic debris to deter ants, bees, and wasps.
3. Relocate Woodpiles
Store firewood far from entryways. Piles near doors provide nesting spots for rodents and easy access to your home.
4. Use Natural Repellents
Lemon-eucalyptus spray applied to skin, clothing, or gear repels mosquitoes for up to 6 hours.
5. Maximize Airflow
Install porch fans to disrupt mosquitoes. Moving air disperses human odors and carbon dioxide, which attract pests.
6. Secure Pet Food
Store pet food in sealed containers and clean outdoor dishes daily. Leftover food draws ants, flies, and wildlife.
7. Clean Grills Thoroughly
Scrub grills with hot water, soap, and a brush to remove grease and food residue that attract flies, bugs, and even raccoons.
8. Cover Food Outdoors
Keep food and drinks covered during gatherings. Rinse empty containers promptly to avoid attracting bees and yellow jackets.
9. Maintain Landscaping
Trim overgrown grass and bushes near seating areas. Overgrowth creates hiding spots for insects.
10. Plant Natural Deterrents
- Lavender
- Marigold
- Chrysanthemum
- Lemongrass
These plants repel mosquitoes and other pests naturally.
11. Invite Bats to Help
Install a bat box! A single bat eats 6,000–8,000 insects nightly, offering eco-friendly pest control.
While summer pests can’t be eliminated entirely, these tips will minimize their impact so you can savor the season outdoors.
