10 common household pests in Brisbane and how to deal with them
Brisbane is one of the most desirable cities in Australia to live in, with its sub-tropical
climate, outdoor lifestyle and vibrant culture. But along with the warm and humid weather
comes a variety of household pests that can make a home in yours, because of the perfect
blend of warmth and humidity!
Here are ten of the most common household pests that we find in Brisbane homes and
practical tips on how to deal with them
1. Cockroaches
Cockroaches thrive in Brisbane’s subtropical climate. These fast and persistent critters are known for contaminating food and spreading diseases. The best way to keep your home free of them is to keep surfaces clean, eliminate food scraps, seal any food away, and block entry points such as cracks and crevices. You can use cockroach bait for the odd cockroach, but if the infestation is severe, then it’s time to call in the professionals at Pest Police.
2. Ants
Ants will invade homes in search of food and water. They work exceptionally well as a team with great persistence to find what they need. As with most pests, to discourage them from entering your home, we recommend storing food in airtight containers and cleaning up spills immediately. Natural remedies like vinegar or lemon juice can repel ants. Spray a little on surfaces to deter them from scurrying around.
3. Termites
Termites are called silent destroyers for a good reason: by the time you see termite activity, they’ve likely done a lot more damage than what is visible. They can cause extensive damage to timber furniture and timber structures, therefore, regular termite inspections are essential – it’s a relatively small investment to protect your property.
To discourage termites from entering your home, keep timber structures dry and well-ventilated because termites are thirsty little critters and will seek out moisture wherever they can find it. Store any timber for firewood and other things away from the house, and repair any leaks. Give us a call at Pest Police for more information about termites and what you can do to protect yourself and your home.
4. Silverfish
Silverfish are nocturnal insects that feed on paper, glue, cardboard, fabric, and starch. If you have too many silverfish, try reducing the humidity in your home where possible, especially where you store items like books and clothes, and store them in sealed containers. Using dehumidifiers and silica gel packets will also help keep humidity to a minimum.
5. Spiders
Brisbane is home to various spider species, some of which can be venomous. Regular cleaning, particularly in dark corners, under furniture, and in storage areas, and removing spider webs will help reduce spider infestations.
6. Rats
Rats are seeking shelter to settle down and reproduce, and if your home provides the ideal environment, they will settle in quickly and soon you’ll have a few too many! They can contaminate food and spread diseases. To deter rats, seal any gaps in walls, roofs, and floors, make sure there is no food left out overnight, and that the garbage bin is not accessible.
7. Mice
Just like rats, these elusive little rodents are quick to settle and quick to reproduce. Make sure food is inaccessible to them, and that bins are off limits. Seal all entry points and remember they can get through tiny crevices. If you see them multiply, give us a call and we’ll come out to do an inspection.
8. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are difficult to detect and eliminate. Regularly inspect mattresses, bed frames, and furniture for signs of infestation. When you wash your bedding, use hot water, and vacuum your mattress frequently.
9. Wasps
Take care around wasps because they can inflict a painful sting. The European wasp, which is particularly aggressive, can be mistaken for a bee. Wasps are attracted to sugary substances, so the first thing to do if you think you may have too many wasps is to remove all sugary substances, drinks, and food, and seal them up. If you notice a wasp nest, don’t disturb it—call the team at Pest Police and we’ll safely remove the nests.
10. Fleas
Fleas are small wingless parasites that often enter your home piggybacking on your pet! To prevent fleas, regularly groom, check, and treat your pets with flea control products, vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly, and wash pet bedding in hot water.
Concerned you have a pest problem?
Give us a call at Pest Police. With a 100% success rate and over 40,000 homes inspected, we’ll find the reason those critters have entered your property in the first place and then provide the most environmentally-friendly pest treatment to send them on their way for good!
