All living things require water to survive, and insect pests are no exception. They seek out sources of moisture to keep their bodies hydrated, so they can carry on the process of breeding and replenishing their species. Excess moisture in your home is an invitation to a host of bugs and crawly creatures to set up residence. This is especially true in warm, humid climates where moisture is more difficult to control. There are several things you can do to eliminate moisture and make you home less inviting to insect pests but first you must understand what is the relation between moisture and pests.
Yes. Many insect pests are attracted to moisture as they need water to keep their bodies from drying out. Some drink water droplets, but most absorb the moisture through their skin, which means they don’t need standing water to stay hydrated they just need moist surroundings. Dark, moist areas provide a haven for insect pests to hide out during the day, so they can set out in search of additional food by night.
You may find yourself asking “What is Relation between moisture and pests?” as it may seem illogical that pests actually seek out water. Understanding “what is relation between moisture and pests?” can be complex as there are multiple reasons why pest come in moist environment. Insects are attracted to moisture because they need water to survive, but that’s not the only reason. Warm, moist areas also provide a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Some insects feed off the tiny spores or off decaying organic matter that hosts the mold or mildew. Still other pests, like spiders and centipedes, are attracted to the existing insects already in your home as they are a source of a tasty meal.
The key to eliminating pests is to take away both moisture and food sources and then block their entrance to your home. That means drying out moist areas of your home and keeping it free of foods that attract pests.
1. Remove any standing water in basements and crawl spaces. You may need to use a sump pump to do this.
2. Install a dehumidifier in the basement or in areas of your home with excess moisture.
3. Check your bathroom exhaust fan and make sure it is in good working order. Make sure all family members run the fan after steamy baths and showers.
4. Open windows to allow good air circulation.
5. Install gutters with downspouts to direct rainwater away from your home.
1. Wash down kitchen counters with a bleach solution. One part bleach to 9 parts water works well as a kitchen cleaner.
2. Clean any grease or food residue from the stove. Be sure to remove the burners and clean the drip pans. Grease and bits of food trapped under the burners will attract insect pests.
3. Sweep and scrub the kitchen floor before going to bed for the night. Pay special attention to the areas around your trashcan and the corners of the room.
4. Wash all dishes and wipe out the sink.
5. Empty the trash frequently and instruct all family members to dispose of snack wrappers and containers properly. Many insects are attracted to sugar and will flock to candy wrappers, juice boxes and fruit snack containers.
6. Pull out appliances and clean the area under them if you notice insect pests hiding out there during the day.
Blocking entrances to the home can be difficult because insects squeeze through tiny cracks and crevices, but you can eliminate unnecessary entrances.
1. Clean around the foundation of your home and remove all sources of trash or vegetation where insects can hide. This includes brush piles, stacked or scrap wood and other garden or yard debris.
2. Seal cracks around windows and doors and replace the weather stripping.
3. Check for cracks along the foundation, in the siding and around drainpipes. Seal any holes you discover.
If you have a major infestation and your efforts to control moisture don’t take care of the problem, you may need professional help. Pest Control professionals have the experience and expertise needed to take care of the problem for you.