No one likes pests. They can be a nuisance and can even cause health problems. There are many different types of pests. The most common in the United States are pigeons, mosquitoes, and termites. However, the one that most people are worried about is rats.
It’s estimated that 14 million homes have seen rats and roaches in their homes. But experts believe that a lot more homes are infested. Unfortunately, people don’t know about it yet.
Rats can carry all sorts of diseases, such as the plague, typhus, and leptospirosis. They can also bite and scratch people, which can lead to infection. In addition, they can damage your property by chewing through wires and insulation.
So how do you keep these pesky critters away from your home? Here are five ways:
Keep The Kitchen Clean
If there is part of people’s homes, that’s most likely to attract rats. It’s the kitchen. They’re attracted to food and water. So, the first step in keeping rats away is to keep your kitchen clean. That means no spills, no crumbs, or food left out overnight.
You should also regularly clean under appliances and behind cabinets. These are all places where rats can hide and build their nests. Moreover, ensure to always clean any grease that might sputter. Also, always check if there’s leakage in your kitchen.
If your kitchen is found outside your home, you will need extra protection as well. You should consider getting a storage shed to keep your food in. Also, you might want to think about getting a rat-proof trash can.
Keep The Rest Of Your House Clean
While the kitchen might be the most attractive place for rats, they will infest other parts of your home if given a chance. So, it’s essential to keep the rest of your house clean. That means ensuring there’s no clutter where rats can hide and no food or water sources.
In the bathroom, ensure that there are no leaks and that your bathroom essentials are properly stored away. In the bedroom, make sure clothes are off the floor and that there’s no food left out. In general, declutter your home and do regular cleaning whenever you can.
Repair Your Roof
Rats are smart. If they can’t find a way inside your home the traditional way, they’ll find another way. That’s why it’s vital to repair any holes or cracks in your roof and foundation. Even the smallest hole can be an opening for rats.
Rats are great climbers who can climb pipes and wires to get into your home. So, it’s essential to make sure that there are no gaps around these objects. If there are, rats will find their way in.
If you don’t know how to repair your roof, you should consider hiring a professional to help you out. A professional commercial roof repair service can fix any holes in your roof in no time. They can also reinforce your roof and weatherproof it, making it less likely for rats to enter and damage it in the future.
It’s also a good idea to check your gutters and ensure they’re clean. Clogged drains can provide a perfect environment for rats to build their nests. In addition, trim any trees or bushes that might be touching your house. These are all potential entry points for rats.
Use Repellents
There are many commercial rat repellents available on the market. These usually come from ultrasonic devices, sprays, or powders. Some people also swear by home remedies such as mothballs, essential oils, and cucumbers.
The key to using repellents is to find one that works for you and to use it correctly. Read the instructions carefully and place the repellent in areas where you think rats might enter your home. It’s also a good idea to move the repellent around every few weeks so that rats don’t get used to it.
Be Careful With Poison
Poison is one of the most common ways people try to get rid of rats. But it’s also one of the most dangerous. If you have pets or small children, they could easily mistake rat poison for food. In addition, if a rat dies in your home, it will release a foul odor that’s hard to eliminate.
If you decide to use poison, use it sparingly and only in areas that are out of reach of children and pets. In addition, be sure to wear gloves when handling poison and dispose of any dead rats properly.
Although it can be a lot of work to keep rats off your home, it’s worth it. Keeping rats away from your home can decrease the chances of them causing damage and help keep your family safe from disease. Following the tips above, you can make your home less attractive to rats and keep them away for good.
