We investigated many common types of pest control practices, and what we found were a lot of misconceptions about pests and pest control. Here are the most common myths exposed.
1. The Borax Myth
It’s a common practice for homeowners to mix the substance, Borax, with sugar in order to bate common pests like roaches. While these pests will be attracted to most sugary sweets left out, the smell of the Borax will deter them from eating the trap, and they will leave it alone, and move on to the next snack. Watch what an extreme case of roach infestation looks like!
2. If it doesn’t Smell it doesn’t Work
Many homeowners believe that if they can’t see, smell, or hear a spray, or other form of pest removal device, that it can’t be working and they are simply wasting their money. This is false. There have been many innovations with pest control in the last decade alone, and fortunately they include the lack of odor in sprays.
3. Bug Zappers Take Care of Mosquitoes
With such a large amount of advertising for these devices it’s hard to convince a person, but they do not kill mosquitoes. One study showed that less than 1% of insects zapped by them was actually mosquitoes. Bug spray with DEET is the best way to avoid being bitten by these pesky insects, or try using yellow colored lights in outdoor fixtures. Mosquitoes are not as attracted to these, and it will cut down on them.
4. Bed Bugs Don’t Like Dirty Places
If you had a choice of spending the night in a luxurious 4-star hotel wouldn’t you? Well, bed bugs would too. Although they aren’t as specific about their preferences as we are, they don’t mind dirty places, but do enjoy clean hotels, hospitals, rugs, and clothing. Look at what bed bugs did to this 4-star hotel!
5. If Pests Aren’t Visible Then They Aren’t A Problem
Out of sight, out of mind, isn’t the best way to go when thinking about pest control. It’s a common misconception that if you aren’t seeing bugs and pests in and around your home then they aren’t there. This is completely wrong. The best way to get control of pests is to regularly have your house inspected and treated for them.
This infestation got out of control!
6. Treating Pests With Do-It-Yourself Methods
Termites alone cost Americans $1.5 billion annually. Infestations of all types of pests are more effectively treated by trained professionals who know all about these annoying creatures, where to find them, and how to treat them correctly the first time. Not only can there be dangerous repercussions, but people will end up spending more money on damages and do-it-yourself products than if they had simply called a professional.
7. Roaches Become Immune to Sprays
There are roaches that are resistant to specific products, but spraying the same product will not cause the roaches to eventually become immune to it. Only trained pest professionals know how to handle these insects, and have access to the best products. It’s smartest to let them handle it. Don’t let roach infestations like this one happen!
8. House Spiders Should Simply Be Placed Outdoors.
It happens all of the time. Someone spots a spider inside the house, and kindly puts it outside. The spider is shown mercy and the house is then spider free. Wrong! Spiders will come back the same way they did the first time. Often where there is one there are many, especially since they multiply with great numbers. It’s best to get the home inspected and treated.
