Mosquitoes can quickly turn a pleasant summer evening into an itchy, frustrating experience. There are numerous known DIY methods to repel these pesky insects, but not all of these techniques are backed by science. For instance, a common tip is that blowing bubbles can effectively keep mosquitoes away – but is that true?
In this article, we’ll put a spotlight on this and 4 other common bug beliefs. By separating fact from fiction, you’ll be better equipped to protect yourself from mosquito bites and enjoy your outdoor activities to the fullest.
Myth 1) Bubbles Keep Mosquitoes Away
You might have heard that blowing bubbles can keep mosquitoes away. The idea is that the smell of the soap in the bubbles can hide the scent of carbon dioxide and lactic acid that humans give off, which is what attracts mosquitoes.
However, there’s no real science to back this up. While soap bubbles might distract mosquitoes for a short time, they won’t provide long-lasting protection.
To really keep mosquitoes at bay, use insect repellents that are registered with the EPA and contain ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These products can effectively deter mosquitoes and prevent bites.
Myth 2) Mothballs Repel All Pests
Some say that moth balls can be used to keep away all sorts of pests, like mice, rats, and bugs. While moth balls do contain chemicals that can deter some pests, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Mothballs are meant to kill clothes moths and carpet beetles in closed containers, not to repel pests in open spaces. Using moth balls improperly can be dangerous to your health and the environment, as the chemicals they contain can cause breathing problems and other health issues.
Instead of relying on mothballs, use pest control methods that are specific to the problem you’re dealing with, like sealing off entry points, repellants, or working with a professional pest control company.
Myth 3) Bed Bugs Only Infest Dirty Homes
There’s a common misconception that bed bugs only infest dirty or unsanitary homes – the truth is, bed bugs can live anywhere people spend a lot of time, no matter how clean it is.
Bed bugs are great at hitching rides on clothes, luggage, or used furniture, so they can easily spread. They’re like the warmth and carbon dioxide that sleeping humans give off, not to dirt or grime. While regular cleaning and decluttering can help you spot bed bug infestations early, it won’t stop them completely.
To reduce the risk of bed bugs, check your home often, be careful when traveling or buying used items, and think about using protective covers on your mattresses and box springs.
Myth 4) Cockroaches Can Survive a Nuclear Explosion
You might have heard that cockroaches are so tough they could survive a nuclear explosion. While it’s true that cockroaches can handle more radiation than humans can, they’re not indestructible.
A direct nuclear blast would kill cockroaches just like it would most other living things. However, cockroaches are adaptable and can handle tough conditions better than many other insects because of their unique bodies and ability to survive on very little.
To control cockroach infestations, keep your home clean and free of food crumbs, seal off any cracks or holes where they could get in, and use cockroach-specific insecticides if needed.
Myth 5) Termites Only Eat Wood
While termites are notorious for their ability to damage wooden structures, they do not exclusively eat wood. Termites actually eat cellulose, which is in many plant materials, including wood, paper, and cardboard.
In nature, termites play an important role in breaking down dead plant matter and returning nutrients to the soil. However, when termites infest homes, they can cause serious structural damage that can be expensive to repair.
To protect your property from termites, it’s important to have regular inspections and consider preventive treatments.
When to Call a Professional
If you think you have a pest infestation in your home or have tried to control one on your own without success, it’s time to call in the professionals.
Trained pest control experts can figure out exactly what kind of pest you’re dealing with, see how bad the infestation is, and come up with a targeted plan to get rid of them. Plus, they can provide regular maintenance and prevention services to help keep your home pest-free all year long.
Some signs that it’s time to call a professional include:
- You see pests consistently, even after trying DIY control methods
- You notice damage to your home or belongings caused by pests
- You or your family members are experiencing bites or health issues related to pests
- The population seems to be growing or spreading to new areas
Preventative Maintenance
In addition to knowing the truth about common bug myths, it’s important to take steps to prevent pest infestations in your home. Here are some tips:
- Keep your living spaces clean and clutter-free to reduce hiding spots and food sources for pests
- Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation and exterior walls to keep pests from getting inside
- Fix any leaky pipes or faucets promptly, as moisture attracts many types of pests
- Store food in airtight containers and take out the garbage regularly to avoid attracting pests
- Keep your yard tidy and trim any plants that touch your home’s foundation to reduce pest access
- Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes and other pests can breed
Conclusion
In summary, bubbles most likely won’t keep mosquitoes out of your yard – don’t let other myths bug you either! With proven pest control strategies and expert guidance, it can be straightforward to keep a bug-free home.
If it’s been a while since your home had preventative pest service or you have concerns about an existing pest population, call All South Pest Control in Atlanta, GA, and the surrounding areas today.
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