DIY Pest Control Guide

Ticks, mosquitoes, ants, termites, and so many other insects are known to be a nuisance to households in every area of the world. Normally, when one thinks of pests invading their home, they automatically turn to a pest control company to take care of the issue. But, DIY pest control has beneficial aspects that you cannot get by hiring a company.

Avoid having to combat infestation by being prepared before pests invade your home and yard with this DIY pest control guide:

Why “Do It Yourself” Pest Control Is Worth It

With online resources for information and equipment, doing your own pest control is simple, more cost-effective, and just as efficient as hiring a pest control service. When you do your own pest control, you have full control of how often the areas of your home and yard get treated, rather than relying on a pest control company to come out every few months. DIY pest control also provides long-term savings. Buying a battery-powered chemical sprayer is worth the investment, as it can be reused each time you want to spray.

Identifying Problem Areas

Pest control begins with inspection. Where you live and the type of environment you have will determine what types of pests like to be around. Once you have identified these pests, understand what attracts them. This will lead you to common problem areas around your house and yard. A general inspection will give you a good idea of where to spray pesticides.

Preparing Your Home

Preparation is important for your safety and pest control effectiveness. Before you begin your at-home pest control, make sure that all areas are cleared out. If you are spraying inside, cover and store away any food, clothing, or delicate items that you do not want to come in contact with the chemicals. For outside pest control, clean up any debris around the yard. Rake up leaves, unclutter all areas, and store away any pet food and water bowls. Not only will this make spraying easier and more productive, but it will also help eliminate any areas pests like to hide.

Choosing Your Equipment

There is a wide variety of equipment that is available for those who want to do their own pest control. Sprayers come in different forms, depending on what your needs are. At-home pest control backpack sprayers and foggers offer different spraying capabilities to fight off annoying pests. Foggers create a mist that covers plants top to bottom. Sprayers come with a wand, to target those hard-to-reach areas around the house. The most popular sprayer for the DIYers is a battery-powered chemical sprayer because it is compact, lightweight, and easy to use both indoors and outdoors.

Choosing Your Chemical

Once you have prepped each spraying area and picked your pest control equipment, the next step is choosing the right chemicals. Some pesticides only target specific pests, while others cover a broad range. Consider what types of plants and landscape your home has, then choose a pesticide that will eliminate pests, but also not harm your existing plants. Consider any sensitive areas around your yard before spraying. Pesticides are crucial to eliminating unwanted critters, but they can also be toxic. Before choosing, make sure to read and understand the information on the product label.

Prevention

Prevention is key to avoiding a bigger pest problem in the future. If you are not being proactive about pest control, bugs will try to make their way inside your home over time. The biggest rule of thumb is to keep a clean environment, inside and outside your home. Keep trees and foliage trimmed, clean up leaves and debris in your yard, and seal any cracks or holes around the house. Spray pesticides with your backpack sprayer every few months for maintenance.


If pests find an opportunity to make a home inside of yours, they will take it. Take pest control into your own hands by following this guide and applying it to your unique home environment. For more tips and tricks on pest control, subscribe to our newsletter.