Ants and cockroaches are the most common pests in homes, especially during the warmer months. They generally sneak in searching for shelter and food, and can quickly turn into an irritating infestation.
If you are dealing with the early signs of such pest activities in your home, then there are some safe and effective ways to address the issue. Homemade traps can help reduce their numbers before professional pest control becomes necessary. Let us now take a look at some simple solutions that can help you tackle common pest problems, especially in areas like East London and Essex.
Understanding Ant & Cockroach Problems
Before you set the traps, you should know what actually draws ants and cockroaches indoors. Ants generally follow scent trails left by scouts. They are mostly searching for any kind of sugary food. Cockroaches, on the other hand, love dark and damp spaces. They feed on grease, crumbs, and decaying matter.
In homes across Dagenham, Redbridge, and the surrounding areas, most infestations typically begin in the kitchens or under the sinks. The first step is to identify the entry points and the hideouts. This helps you place the traps effectively.
Step-By-Step: Homemade Ant Trap Using Household Items
Ant traps work the best if a sweet bait masks a toxic ingredient. An easy method to do that is to use sugar, water, and borax (or baking soda). Here’s how:
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Mix two parts sugar with one part borax, and add just enough water to make a paste.
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Dab it onto bottle caps or cotton balls and place them along ant trails.
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Make sure pets and children cannot reach these traps.
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Replace the bait every two days.
This works quite well for minor pest issues that don’t yet need professional pest exterminators. With this method, you will start seeing fewer ants within 5 to 7 days.
DIY Cockroach Trap Methods That Really Work
To build a classic cockroach trap, you will need a glass jar, water, and coffee grounds. Place damp coffee grounds in the bottom of the jar and smear petroleum jelly around the inside rim. Cockroaches will climb in but will not be able to escape.
Another method involves a flat piece of cardboard with double-sided tape and a dab of peanut butter or sugar in the centre. Place these in dark areas like behind fridges or under cabinets. These traps work well if the issue is not extensive and needs the intervention of professional pest control services.
When DIY Isn’t Enough: Know When To Call The Experts
While homemade traps can help with minor pest issues, they cannot fix the root problem. If you find recurring sightings, droppings, or foul smells, then it means that there is a deeper infestation.
While traps can reduce visible pests, only trained pest exterminators can eliminate nests and prevent future outbreaks. This is why seeking help from experienced professionals makes a big difference.
Homemade traps give you a head start in tackling ants and cockroaches. However, if the problem persists, don’t delay in calling pest control experts. Early action prevents costly damage and health risks. For trusted pest control services in Essex, East London, Dagenham, Newham, and Redbridge, contact Hunters Pest Control.
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