Are you noticing pests around your Albany home? Whether it’s rodents, ants, or other intruders, sharing your space with pests can be stressful. You may consider DIY pest control methods to save money, but knowing when to go DIY and when to call in a professional is essential. Here are some common DIY pest control mistakes, practical strategies, and tips to protect your home.

DIY Pest Control: Pros and Cons

DIY pest control has its advantages, but there are risks involved as well:

• Pros: Cost-effective, choose your own products, and control over methods.
• Cons: Limited knowledge, safety risks, and potential to worsen the problem.

If you're tackling pests alone, avoid these common mistakes to improve your chances of success.

Common DIY Pest Control Mistakes and Solutions

Mistake #1: Improper Mouse Trap Placement

Setting mouse traps in the center of a room may seem logical, but mice tend to stay near walls.

• Place Traps Along Walls: Position traps perpendicular to walls where mice are likely to travel.
• Choose Effective Bait: Use peanut butter, grains, or sweets rather than cheese.

For safety, ensure traps are out of reach for pets and small children.

Mistake #2: Using Ant Spray for an Infestation

Seeing ants can be frustrating, but grabbing a can of ant spray makes things worse.

• Why Ant Spray Doesn’t Work: Over-the-counter sprays kill visible ants but don’t reach the colony, which is typically 90% of the population.
• What to Do Instead: To address the root of the problem, try baits that workers carry back to the nest.

This approach targets the entire colony instead of just the ants you can see.

Mistake #3: DIY Bee and Wasp Removal

Spraying and running with bees or wasps can be dangerous and ineffective.

• Professional Removal Recommended: Stinging insects can be aggressive. Spraying entry points can drive them inside, creating a more significant problem.
• Best Solution: Hire a professional service to remove nests and prevent injuries safely.

Professional pest control services have the expertise and tools to remove stinging insects effectively.

Mistake #4: Treating Fall Invaders Indoors

Spraying indoors is rarely effective when fall pests like stink bugs, cluster flies, and box elder beetles invade.

• Timing Matters: Prevent entry by treating your home’s exterior around windows and doors in late summer (mid-August to mid-September).
• Once Inside: A vacuum is the best tool for removing indoor pests.

Prevention is key with fall invaders, as indoor treatments have limited effectiveness.

Mistake #5: Only Checking the Bed for Bed Bugs

If you think bed bugs are confined to beds, think again! They often spread to nearby areas.

• Look Beyond the Bed: Bed bugs can hide in box springs, headboards, luggage, and even behind picture frames.
• Signs of Bed Bugs: Check for live bugs, pepper-like droppings, and blood stains in creases and seams.

Bed bugs prefer tight, hidden spaces, so a thorough inspection is necessary for complete detection.

When to Call a Professional Pest Control Service

Household pests can pose health risks and cause property damage. While DIY solutions can help, professional pest control provides a reliable, long-term solution. A pest control professional can:

• Identify Pests Correctly: Professionals know how to identify different pests and understand the best treatment for each type.
• Save Time and Money: Proper pest treatment prevents reinfestation and avoids the risks of DIY mistakes.

Call Thomas Pest Services at 518-861-4921 or contact us for a free inspection and customized pest control plan. Protect your Albany home with our professional expertise and enjoy peace of mind.