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7 Pest Control Myths Debunked

7 Pest Control Myths Debunked

Being a homeowner, there is the unavoidable threat of pests. Over time, myths about pest control have spread, and people continue to believe the misconceptions without any evidence. When it comes to taking care of your home and family, you want to ensure that you have the best form of pest control through a trustworthy local extermination company. Our experts at Palmetto Exterminators are here to debunk 7 pest control myths.

Cleaning Prevents Pests

Even if you keep your home in tip-top shape, it doesn't mean that pests won't turn up. Since pests are attracted to warm, moist environments, they can find comfort in almost any home regardless of the cleanliness. Household pests such as bed bugs, termites, and carpenter ants are solely looking for shelter and food. Don't get us wrong, it is still important to keep your home clean. This can help keep cockroaches, rodents, and other critters at bay and a great first step towards a pest-free home. But don't be alarmed if pests arrive - it doesn't mean your home is dirty or in bad shape!

Cheese is the Best Food to Attract Mice

Contrary to popular belief, cheese is not the best food to attract and trap a mouse. Perhaps, this misconception was created from the cartoon, Tom and Jerry, and people have gone on to believe this method works best for years. In fact, mice prefer foods high in sugar, so it may be best to trap them with peanut butter, jam, or even marshmallows, or chocolate. It's not that mice don't enjoy cheese - it's just not their favorite thing on the menu.

Bug Zappers are Effective Mosquito Control

As fun as they may be, bug zappers are not the most effective option for pest control. When bug zappers kill the wrong insects, the damage can negatively affect the environment and disrupt pollination. While some bugs may be attracted to light, mosquitoes prefer humans - they are drawn to us because we emit carbon dioxide. Bug zappers do not have the same properties as people, so they are not attracted to them as easily.

Pests Only Infest in Warm Weather

This myth can be a bit misleading. Pest infestations can occur in all seasons, however, we do see a significant increase once the weather warms up. In the winter, pests have already gotten nice and cozy inside your home, and are ready to hibernate for the entirety of the season. When spring comes, they may make their trek to other homes and begin to breed. In the summer, all pests begin to search for food and shelter in preparation for colder weather. When summer turns to fall, the newborn insects begin to grow and aid their parents in storing food before the winter. This cycle continues, and therefore, pest infestations can occur during all seasons.

Bees Only Sting Once

A common myth about bees is that they can only sting once. However, this is far from the unfortunate truth. Honeybees can only sting once, but other stinging insects such as wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets, have more capabilities. This can be extremely dangerous and even deadly to those with allergies. It's important to identify nests and immediately let your local exterminators know so they can take care of the situation.

DIY Pest Control Can Fix the Problem

If you suspect you have a pest problem, it doesn't mean you can solve it on your own. You need the proper equipment and resources to resolve the situation at hand. First, you should hire a reliable pest control company. Exterminators have the assets that you don't in order to relieve you and your home of pests. Search for a company with specialized treatments, and one that places emphasis on using methods that limit the use of insecticides. Though you can take precautions, do not rely on DIY pest control! To learn more, check out our article on DIY Pest Control.

Pest Control is Only Necessary When There's a Problem

Be prepared. Pests are not out of sight, out of mind. Take precautionary measures in avoiding a pest infestation by hiring a pest control company and researching effective pest control methods. At Palmetto Exterminators, we perform a free, no-obligation pest inspection to begin your process. Hope for the best, but take action for the worst!

Don't believe everything you hear about pest control and pests themselves. They may be myths! By taking the proper steps, you can entirely avoid a problem. Contact Palmetto Exterminators today for a free consultation and more information.