Why Do I Have Centipedes at Home?

Have you ever come across elongated earthworm-like creatures that seem to walk on tiny, furry legs? If yes, then you have seen a centipede in your house.

Honestly, most people can deal with rodents like rats and mice in their houses. They can even deal with tiny insects like bed bugs or carpet bugs. However, centipedes look disgusting and frighten most people to their cores. So if you find one in your house, you probably want it gone right away. But before that, you should know why you have centipedes in your home.

Centipedes walk creepily on so many legs and have a habit of getting everywhere. You look at walls, and they’re crawling on them. You turn to your floors, and you see them there too. So, let’s tell you why you see all these house centipedes on your property.

 

What is a centipede?

Centipedes belong to the arthropod group known as Myriapoda. Most people think that these are regular insects, but they are quite different in reality. These creatures have segmented bodies, and each segment of their body has a pair of legs.

The word “centipede” literally means “a hundred legs.” However, in reality, these arthropods don’t have a hundred legs. Instead, most house centipedes can have anything between 15 - 150 pairs of legs, each pair attached to each segment of its body.

Most centipedes are usually an inch or two long, though their legs can make them appear longer. They are also nocturnal creatures, so you may not easily find them unless you are a night owl too.

There are different species of this arthropod, like the feather-tail, aquatic, and the giant red-headed centipede. The centipede we see in our homes is the house centipede.

 

 

What does a house centipede look like?

Here are some of the characteristic features these arthropods have.

Body

You can easily spot this creature by its distinctive body. House centipedes have long, earthworm-like bodies. The difference is that the bodies of centipedes have many segments, and each comes with a pair of legs. They can have anything between 15 and 150 pairs of legs, but usually, they have an odd number of pairs.

Color

Most house centipedes are brown or reddish-brown in color. However, they can be of other colors too. For example, some are yellowish and can have stripes on them, which are usually darker than the body’s color.

Size

Usually, they are about 1 or 1 ½ inches long, which is about 25-38 mm. However, the size also depends on the species. Some of them can also be about 152 mm long.

Physical features

The head of a house centipede is very distinctive. You’ll find a pair of long, hairy antennae on their heads. They also have claw-like structures and a tiny mouth. Centipedes’ claws have venomous glands, which they use on small vertebrates like worms to paralyze them. Some house centipedes have well-developed eyes on each side of their body. On the contrary, some don’t have any at all.

If you’re asking the question, “what does a house centipede look like,” these features should help you identify them quickly when you see one on your property. Are these poisonous? While they do carry venom in their claws to attack their prey, they usually don’t cause any harm to humans. Unless you are handling them very closely, they will also not bite you. And if they do, you will experience pain much like that of a bee sting. However, sensitive people might develop allergic reactions, for which they might have to visit the doctor. But you will not die from a centipede bite.

 

What causes centipedes in the house?

Are you wondering how to get rid of these? Well, before that, you have to know what causes centipedes in the house. Here are some reasons why you see these in your home.

1. There’s moisture everywhere

Centipedes need damp and humid areas to stay alive and active. If you see too many of them in your house, it means that your home is probably producing lots of moisture. Your basement, kitchen, and bathroom are the areas where you want to look for excess dampness. Make sure to keep your house dry to prevent infestation.

2. Food source

All living creatures need food to survive. One of the things that attract centipedes is the right food. Do you have a garden with flowers in them? These may attract smaller bugs and spiders, which in turn make an excellent diet for them. So, if you see centipedes around your house, you may be having other bug problems too.

3. Temperature variations

What do you do when you feel cold outside? You look for shelter within your home. Centipedes are pretty much the same. When they find the exterior of your house too cold to survive, they can creep inside and hide there to stay warm.

 

Where do you commonly find centipedes?

Let’s look at the places where you should begin searching for centipedes.

1. Your garden is where most tiny bugs come to feed, and centipedes feed on these bugs. So, the first place to start looking for centipedes in your garden.
2. House centipedes need moisture to survive. If your bathroom is a damp place, you will find them hiding there in the corners. They can easily climb up through the drain pipes and enter your bathrooms, leading to an infestation in your house.
3. Most basements are dark and damp. So, the basement of your house is another place where you can find house centipedes.
4. Sometimes you can also find them under your bed in your bedroom. This place usually does not get enough light and is cold enough for centipedes to seek shelter.

 

Final thoughts

House centipedes are not dangerous and do not cause any severe harm to humans. But a large-scale infestation can damage your property. Centipede infestation also often means an infestation of other bugs in your house. In order to keep them away, make sure to follow all the proper precautions by keeping your place clean and dry.

In severe cases, professional help is necessary. You can rely on professional pest control services like Bug Guy Services. For a FREE estimate, contact us now.

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Rodent Infestation: Difference Between Mice and Rats

Did you see a large rodent scurry away and hide under the closet in your kitchen? It can be a mouse or a rat. There are subtle differences between these two rodents, and you need to be careful in identifying them. Unless you recognize the rodent infesting your house, you will be unable to choose the right solution. You also have to check how serious of a problem you have.

Usually, three types of rodents plague our house - the ordinary house mouse, the Norway rat, or the roof rat. But, how to tell the difference between mice and rats? Learn about mice and rats and the different ways you can identify them. Do you also need solutions for severe rodent infestation in your house? Read on to discover those as well!

 

Identifying rats vs. mice

Most homeowners will say that rats and mice are the same things, but they are not. Both mice and rats are small, furry and have a long tail. So, what’s the difference between them? The most significant difference is possibly the size of the rodents. The common house rat or Norway rat is much larger than the house mouse.

Apart from that, here are some other differences you can look out for when you are trying to identify rats vs. mice infestation in your house:

1. Rats have rougher coats of red, brown, or black color and a furless tail. On the contrary, mice have smoother fur, bigger ears, and small black eyes.
2. Mice droppings are more frequent but smaller in size. You will find them in dark areas where mice can hide. Rats poop less frequently, and their droppings are larger.

These are some of the visible differences between these two rodents. You can learn more about them in our article here.

 

Signs of infestation

Most house owners only catch glimpses of the rodents in their house when they scurry across their properties. There’s often no time to identify rats vs. mice physically. That’s why you look for other signs.

Let’s talk about the various signs by which you can tell the difference between rats and mice infestation:

1. Droppings

Rodent droppings are usually the easiest way to figure out an infestation in the house. If the droppings you see are smaller than 1/4th of an inch, you have a mice infestation. But if the droppings are larger and about 1/2 an inch in size, you have rats in your house.

Also, remember that mice poop more regularly than rats. So, if you see droppings all over your house and at all times, it’s probably mice that you have.

2. Odor

A nasty odor could mean that you have a rodent infestation. Rat and mouse urine have a strong, pungent smell. The bigger the infestation, the worse the smell.

If you can smell this musky odor, find out where it’s coming from. Look in the darker places of your house, like under the beds and closets. Urine smell is one of the earliest signs of infestation, so don’t ignore it.

3. Gnaw marks

Rodents leave gnaw marks. If you see gnaw marks in your gunny bags or other fabric lying around the house, it means you have a rodent problem. You can easily distinguish between the gnaw marks of mice and rats. If it’s a mice infestation, you will see tinier marks and neatly cut holes. But with rats, the holes are larger and cut more roughly.

 

 

Can rodents cause medical problems?

Sometimes mice or rat fur and droppings can trigger severe allergic reactions in human beings. In addition, these rodents can also cause significant medical problems like the following:

1. According to the CDC, Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is a respiratory disease that can even be fatal at times. If the rats or mice infesting your property carry the Hantavirus, even breathing the air around their urine or droppings can cause health risks to you.
2. Rats and mice carrying the Salmonella germ can also transmit it to people. If these rodents in your house infect your food, you can contract Salmonellosis, a diarrhea-related disease.
3. These rodents can often bite you if you try to throw them out of your house. In such cases, you can also contract Rat-Bite Fever which can be a fatal disease if you cannot detect it on time.

The CDC says that rats and mice can spread almost 35 diseases all over the world. This is why it becomes necessary to know what’s the difference between rats and mice.

 

Damage to your property

Apart from your health, rats and mice can also cause severe damages to your property. As a property owner, you must check whether your property has rats vs. mice infestation. The most damage comes from these rodents chewing and gnawing through things. Mice can gnaw holes through wood, books, paper, or anything else they might find helpful in making their nests. They can also chew wires around your house, which can cause terrible fires.

Rats, on the other hand, can raid your pantry and infect your food items. Their teeth are also strong enough to cut through any metal. Like mice, they can also damage electrical wires leading to dangerous fires in your house.

 

 

Preventing infestation

Now that you know how to tell the difference between rats and mice and the possible consequences of infestation, let’s talk about solutions. Some measures you can take to stop rodent growth in your house are:

• Clean your house regularly. Look under the beds and wardrobes to find possible nesting areas of rodents and thoroughly clean them.
• Find the food sources of these rodents and root them out. If you have cereals in your pantry that you think rats or mice might consume, seal the cupboards properly so that they cannot enter them.
• Block the entryways and runways. If you have pipelines or cracks in walls where you find signs of rat urine or mice droppings, clean them and block the areas so the rodents can no longer pass through them.
• Use the various traps and baits available in the market. Most of the time, the poison in those traps helps kill mice and rats quickly.

You can also read more about controlling rat infestation in our blog here.

 

Final thoughts

Rats and mice can be a cause of serious worry for homeowners. In this article, we gave you information about rats vs. mice in your house. We also talked about how to get rid of them. However, these home remedies may work only to prevent an infestation. If you already have rats or mice infestation in your house, you may need to call professional pest control services like Bug Guy Services. Click here to contact us or for a free estimate!

Rodent Infestation: Difference Between Mice and Rats was originally published on https://bugguyservices.com/

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3 Best Rated Air Sanitizers

Keeping our homes safe is essential. Whether we're safeguarding our families against possible theft, pests, or whatever else may get in the way, it is a top priority for most. When it comes to our families' health, safety in the home can boil down to good hygiene, clean surfaces, or even the air. Air sanitizers have been widely used, but many homeowners are unfamiliar with how they work, the benefits, which products are most active at keeping the air as healthy as possible.

In this article, we will go over air sanitizers and what they do. We will also dive into what the best-rated air sanitizers are on the market to date. Keeping our home safe against bacteria and viruses is critical. In times such as these with a pandemic, knowing what options are available for maintaining properties free from agents that could cause sickness is vital.

At Bug Guys Pest Control, we offer a virus protection plan to homeowners and commercial properties throughout the Coachella Valley area. This is an excellent service to complement what property owners do on their own, including using air sanitizers between services.

 

 

What are air sanitizers?

Simply put, air sanitizers are products that individuals can use to promote healthier areas, which may have contaminated indoor air quality. Many types of bacteria and viruses have airborne communicability. Air sanitizers work to mitigate growth and kill bacteria, fungus, or viruses on inanimate surfaces in a home or business.

Most people are familiar with air sanitizers in your local stores. Oxygarden was the first brand in the world to develop air sanitizers for common household use. Since then, there have been a number of companies offering air sanitizers. One of the largest brands, and most well known, being Lysol. However, air sanitation goes beyond an aerosol can. 

Keep in mind that air sanitizers are not air fresheners. These are two different products. Though sanitizers can contain a fragrance if labeled as an air freshener, it may not have any sanitizing abilities. 

It's essential to note that air sanitizers aren't air purifiers either. Air purifiers use filters that will trap particles; in contrast, air sanitizers kill germs on contact. Though air purifiers and sanitizers are different, they do work very well together. When used in conjunction, air purifiers and sanitizers can improve your indoor air quality’s overall quality. 

For this article’s purpose, we will be looking at both sanitizers and purifiers as they both are highly effective at removing germs and viruses from the air.

 

Benefits of air sanitizers

Are you wondering if air sanitizers are necessary for your home or business? In today's landscape, with mass awareness of things like viruses, because of COVID 19, many have considered what they can do to protect themselves and their families. Well, yes, it is an excellent idea to use an air sanitizer now, and there are many more benefits to continuing to use air sanitizers throughout the year.

Healthier Indoor Air Quality

For some individuals, having a better quality of air inside their home or business is critical. For example, those with respiratory problems such as asthma or COPD may find that having cleaner air produces fewer illnesses throughout the year. 

Protection Against Viruses- 98% effective

Even for those that are not immune-compromised, having air sanitizers can limit their exposure to certain viruses and bacteria throughout the year. This is an excellent option for anyone that is concerned with how many illnesses they have. With air sanitizers, both at home or professional, you can be sure you are protected against some of the more problematic viruses in the air or may be brought from the outside. 

Fights Odors

Many of the reasons we look to sanitize the air are because of odors. If you have a stench in the air that you can't get rid of, it may be due to mold spores or some other bacteria living in the air. If you've cleaned excessively and still can't track down the smell, an air sanitizer may solve the problem. 

 

How does it work?

Air sanitation is a simple procedure. Most individuals jump right to Lysol spray when thinking about sanitization, but many more products on the market provide the disinfection of your home or business needs. These can include air purifiers, UV-C lights, and much more. Many of these units you can plug in and change the filter monthly. For options like spray sanitizers, you might have to use daily or weekly for best results.

 

Best rated air sanitizers 

Now for the good stuff. When it comes to getting started with air sanitizers, it can be a confusing market. There are literally tons of options available at the store. Many will have claims at what they can do, while many more minimize their effects on the environment. We've done our research on what the best strategies for air sanitization are and included these below. 

GermGuardian True HEPA Filter Air Purifier

The first sanitizer on the list is the GermGuardian True HEPA Filter Air Purifier. What sets this unit apart is that it's a three-in-one purifier. It's designed for capturing allergens, which can include pet dander and airborne bacteria and viruses.

We like this product because it's cost-effective while being efficient at killing many airborne viruses. The downside, however, is durability. In many cases, after months of continuous use, many consumers have reported product failure. Though for those looking for protection against allergens such as dust and pollen, this is an amazing option for the price. 

Pure Enrichment PurZone 3-in-1 True HEPA Air Purifier

The Pure Enrichment Pure Zone 3-in-1 uses a HEPA filter that eliminates 99.9% of most allergens, pollen, dust, mold spores, and bacteria from the air. This makes it a power hitter for any home or business. It uses UV-C light to destroy germs and viruses, making it an excellent weapon against certain illnesses. 

What we found about this unit is there is much to love. However, we feel that the whisper-quiet function isn't so quiet. In fact, after a few months of usage, most consumers have reported that the fan grows louder. Though if you're looking for an air sanitizer that uses a HEPA filter and UV-C light for killing viruses and bacteria, this is an excellent choice.

InvisiClean Claro Air Purifier

Like other models on our list, this unit also contains a HEPA filter that can eliminate a bulk of the dust, pollen, pet dander, and more. It features high efficiency, low energy usage that many homeowners can enjoy. Simply place it in a large room, and it'll go to work purifying the air. With a simple construction and no-hassle operation, this is an excellent choice for just about any homeowner. 

What we really love about the InvisiClean claro air purifier is that it comes with an air quality monitor. This monitor works in real-time, which can provide added peace of mind the unit is working. Out of the three units we've reviewed, this one takes the cake.

 

Conclusion 

Having better indoor air quality should be a priority for property owners. Not only can systems remove harmful bacteria and viruses that make us sick, but it can also eliminate unwanted odors. There are tons of products on the market, making it difficult at times to know which is right for your situation. 

While the options listed, including the InvisiClean Claro Air Purifier, can be highly effective for your needs, starting with a professional service from the Bug Guys Pest Control can give you optimal results. If you're interested in our affordable virus protection plan in the Coachella Valley area, visit us online by clicking here or give us a call at (442) 227-8409. 

3 Best Rated Air Sanitizers was originally published to https://www.bugguyservices.com

Does Lysol Kill Bed Bugs?

Just hearing 'bed bugs' is enough to send panic into the hearts of a property owner. Statistically speaking, bed bugs affect one in five homes each year. They are commonly found in bed frames, mattresses, couches, and even in stuffed animals. No matter where they are located in the home, most people don't like or want to live with these annoying pests. 

Naturally, when there is an infestation of any type, people look for options to solve the problem quickly. When it comes to bed bugs, the good news is, there are options available that are effective and some that can even guarantee you won't be seeing them again. In this article, we'll look at what methods work best against bed bugs- and finally answer the question, "Does Lysol kill bed bugs?"

 

 

What kills bed bugs?

Anyone that has bed bugs or has dealt with them in the past knows that the number one objective is to get rid of them quickly. Bed bugs are some of the more frightening unwanted house guests that we can have and can be very difficult to get rid of. If you're curious about what works well and what doesn't, we've comprised a great list of options available. Though at-home remedies or DIY bed bug removal may seem like a great idea, to get the greatest peace of mind that your home is no longer infested is by calling your pest control professionals. 

 

Heat

Historically, heat has been the number one go-to method for getting rid of bed bugs. While this might seem rather unconventional of a pest controller, it has proven to be the top choice for many companies. Heat is somewhat predictable. The reason being is once a room heats to 117-122 degrees Fahrenheit, bed bugs die. They hate the heat, and when exposed to an extended process, the adults and eggs cannot live.

Heat treatments can be a preferred method for those looking to naturally kill bed bugs. Because most often, this treatment doesn't involve using pesticides, it is a favorite amongst those that are worried about chemicals and the effect they have on the environment and their homes.

Why is heat the best choice? Simply put, bed bugs can never develop a resistance to heat like they can with pesticides.

 

Pesticides

After heat treatments, there are quite a few pesticide solutions available that can eliminate bed bugs. Most pest controllers agree though that pesticides alone are not as effective as heat treatments plus pesticides, or heat treatments on their own. The pesticide industry has three different types of chemicals that work against bed bugs.  

Pyrethrins

This chemical insecticide is derived from chrysanthemums. You might know this by a different name or association, including the classic holiday flower. This pesticide will attack the bugs' nervous system. It will cause the system to have a misfire and eventually fail.

Pyrethroids

For the same level of effectiveness, pyrethroids can be used to combat bed bugs. The pyrethroids are the synthetic counterpart to chrysanthemums. Both this and pyrethrins act as a contact poison. This means when you spray it, it will instantly kill the pest.

Desiccants

Desiccants are bed bug powders, whereas the other two are typically used as a spray. This pest controlling powder can be used on several types of insects. It works in a different way than the other two as it will destroy the exoskeleton protecting the bed bug, versus destroying the nervous system.

 

 

Lysol Ingredients

Lysol is a disinfectant spray. It claims to kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, but can it be used on bed bugs? Most of the active ingredients contained in Lysol are public knowledge. This is because Lysol is a registered cleaning product. Though we may use it for sanitizing surfaces, it's general use isn't for killing bugs. Take a look at some of the most common ingredients contained in Lysol wipes and sprays:

1. Ethanol
2. Isopropyl alcohol
3. Lactic acid
4. Hydrogen peroxide

If notice, these four active ingredients don't contain any of the three pesticides listed above. In fact, these ingredients listed are specifically designed to work together to disinfect and sanitize. While they may be extremely effective against killing certain bacteria and germs, they don't do an excellent job of attracting bed bugs and killing them. However, it can be interesting to note that the ingredients listed could be toxic to a bed bug. Though it wouldn't matter. Bed bugs would not be attracted to the taste or smell of Lysol enough to ingest.

Most insecticides work on the premise of direct contact and killing, or a bait system where the chemicals will need to be ingested. If an insect isn't attracted to the bait or spray, they will avoid it. 

 

Pros and Cons of Using Lysol

If you're thinking about using Lysol as a homemade option against bed bugs, you may want to weigh the pros and cons. Though Lysol is an inexpensive purchase that can be done at any store, it may not be the best option for effective bed bug control.

Pros

The biggest pro to using Lysol is that it is incredibly inexpensive. It is also widely available, and you don't need a license to procure the products. One of the best upsides to using Lysol around the home is you can be confident your home is protected against bacteria and viruses, which is never a bad thing.

Cons

Lysol is not proven to be effective at killing bed bugs or any other pests. It all boils down to function. Lysol's essential designated function is to sanitize surface areas. It is not designed to kill pests around the home.

 

Conclusion

There you have it. If you're thinking about trying Lysol to solve your bed bug problems, you might want to rethink it. This product isn't designed to kill insects and hasn't been proven affected for this use. Instead, consider the more professional routes with your local pest controller. Heat is regarded as the most effective means of bed bug elimination while combing with pesticides can guarantee a 100% pest-free home.  

Are you experiencing a bed bug problem? Bug Guys Pest Control is proud to offer bed bug extermination throughout the Coachella Valley. Receive a free quote online by clicking here or giving us a call at (442) 227-8409. 

 

 

 

Does Lysol Kill Bed Bugs? is republished from www.bugguyservices.com

8 Hotel Tips for Staying Safe Against Pandemic

How long does the Coronavirus live on surfaces? While experts seem to have varying opinions on the matter, it's something that the general public should not overlook. The virus could live days on certain surfaces, making it difficult to protect yourself against infection. For those who want to travel during the pandemic or need to work, staying safe is a top priority. Whether or not the virus lives on surfaces for hours or days, you'll want to take a look at some of these top tips for staying safe against the pandemic while traveling. 

In this article, these hotel tips will focus on weighing the risks, how to choose your destination, the research you may want to conduct, and provide you with eight excellent tips to safeguard you and your family against possible infection during the pandemic.

 

[caption id="attachment_4100" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Image by Olya Adamovich from Pixabay[/caption]

 

Weighing the risks

Sometimes, you have to ask yourself, “Is it worth the risk? Is taking an unnecessary trip right now worth the possibility of becoming infected with a virus that has known to cause certain health complications?” While you could look at it from a few standpoints, one of which being that it has a lower than advertised death rate, it is better to be safe than sorry as they would say. 

For those who have already had a trip scheduled, a concern would be whether they can refund their expenses. If this was a trip planned before the pandemic, it could be hard to put on the back burner or take a loss financially. Contact your hotel and ask about a possible refund if you'd like to cancel your reservation. Though many have indicated that staying at hotels, if proper precautions are taken, is no more risky than your home.

 

Choosing the destination

An excellent way to safeguard you and your family from the potential threat of the COVID 19 is to choose a destination where there isn't a massive rate of transmission. Avoiding overpopulated areas is probably the best in the current climate. You'll want to look for more outdoor settings, like beaches, that make for excellent vacations. Avoid areas where there would be overcrowding, such as theme parks or destinations where most activities are performed inside.

 

Hotel Tips #1: Research the hotel's policy and regulation

Call ahead and talk with the hotel management. Ask them what their policy and regulations are during the pandemic and what they're doing to keep guests and employees safe. This could include their cleaning procedures between guests, how often they sanitize, and if they have any professional disinfecting services done routinely. Most hotels are more than happy to walk guests through their policies. They may also question you as to whether or not you have been in contact with anyone that has tested positive to ensure the safety of their building, guests, and employees.

 

Hotel Tips #2: Ask for a room that hasn't been occupied for several days.

With a virus that could last only a couple hours on the surface, you may want to know who has stayed in your room last. More importantly, when was it last occupied. If your room hasn't been filled for several days, it could be safe to assume that, with proper cleaning, your risk of being infected is incredibly low.

 

Hotel Tips #3: Sanitize your room

You can take matters into your own hands by sanitizing your room. Though your hotel will probably have cleaning and sanitizing procedures in place, if you are worried about the effectiveness, you are more than welcome to clean and sanitize using products you believe in.

 

Hotel Tips #4: Always wear masks and practice social distancing

Just as you wear a mask and practice social distancing in your hometown, you should do the same when traveling for vacation. This will help safeguard you against possible transmission of the COVID-19 virus while keeping others around you safe too.

 

Hotel Tips #5: Limit housekeeping services

Avoid as much as possible. If not, limit your contact with the housekeeping services. This includes ordering room service, if you need towels, or if something is not working. Call the front desk and arrange for these items or ask what the policy is for social distancing.

 

Hotel Tips #6: Use room service instead of dining out

While you'll want to be vigilant about social distancing and ordering room service, it could be a better solution than dining out. Not only can you enjoy a freshly cooked meal from the hotel staff, but you can also enjoy it being served right to your room. It's okay to indulge.

 

Hotel Tips #7: Avoid using decorative pillows and heavy bedspreads

When you first enter a hotel room, one of the most common gestures is to plop on the bed. This is extremely common for children. One of the best ways you can minimize the possibility of viral transmission is to strip the foundation of the decorative pillows and heavy bedspreads. These are used frequently but are less likely to be washed, depending on where you're staying.

 

Hotel Tips #8: Wash your hands frequently

It cannot be stressed enough that your most excellent defense against Coronavirus transmission is by washing your hands frequently. If you go out to enjoy activities, have dinner with your family, or have interactions with hotel staff or other guests, just remember to wash your hands.

 

Conclusion

Traveling during the Coronavirus pandemic can be done safely. Consider these hotel tips in taking extra precautions to ensure you don't contract or transmit the virus. Stay vigilant of your personal hygiene by washing your hands, wearing a mask, and social distancing. Ask your hotel what practices they have put into place to disinfect rooms if your room has been occupied recently, and what they plan to do if a guest is tested positive.

If you're searching for a solution for your hotel, to ensure guest and employee safety, Bug Guys Pest Control is proud to offer virus protection plans. With our disinfecting treatments, you can feel confident that you're providing and maintaining the strictest cleaning standards. Contact us today by visiting us online at or give us a call at (442) 227-8409. 

8 Hotel Tips for Staying Safe Against Pandemic is courtesy of https://bugguyservices.com/

Staying in Hotels: What You Should Know Before You Check-In

Has the Coronavirus pandemic made you stir crazy? Can you not wait to get out of the house and start traveling again? For those who want to go on vacation or just need to go for work, you may be wondering -- is it safe? 

It seems as though the Coronavirus has ruined many plans for individuals and families this summer. However, we can resume activities with careful planning, from traveling to staying in hotels. Hotel chains across the US have announced plans to upgrade their cleaning practices to ensure sanitized surfaces for their employees and guests. It is an effort to mitigate risks for guests and employees. Many have taken extra measures, making it safer for travelers to get back out and enjoy sightseeing, vacations, etc.

In this article, we will discuss if staying in a hotel right now is safe. We will also touch on what you should know before booking a room, arriving, and how to protect yourself while on vacation away from your home. Lastly, we will go over essential questions you should be asking your hotel to ensure you and your family’s optimal safety.

 

 

Is it safe to stay in a hotel right now?

Lockdown measures have eased in some areas, which has opened ways for travelers to get back to their vacations and travel plans. Depending on your location, city, and state ordinances, hotels may be open for business now. Most have reopened their doors, but have modified fundamental cleaning practices and policies to ensure everyone’s safety while enjoying their stay. But are they safe enough? 

In general, staying at a hotel will carry similar risks to that of being in your home. At home, your rooms will not be exposed to anyone else other than you and your family. In hotels, with proper social distancing, your stay can be pleasant without too much worry. The real question is, how the hotel will handle disinfecting between guests. This is where the debate has opened up -- whether we should be booking hotels for leisure versus delaying the travel until the pandemic is over. 

The good news for those eager to stay at their favorite Marriott, Holiday Inn, or Hyatt location, hotels are taking precautions to make your stay safer.

 

What should you know before staying in hotels?

There are many points in which you might come in contact with bacteria and viruses when staying at a hotel. It's essential to be vigilant in what you're touching and to wash your hands frequently. Personal hygiene is an excellent way to safeguard you and others against the transmission of diseases and viruses. Before booking your room, consider these factors:

• Can the hotel provide a room cleaning history?
• Did the hotel have a disinfection service done, in addition to regular cleanings?
• Do they have a social distancing plan in effect?
• Does the hotel provide guests with hand sanitizer?
• Do housekeepers disinfect their hands before making the beds, hanging towels, etc.? 

Below are just a few practices you may see hotels practicing for better protection and prevention of spreading the Coronavirus.

• Frequent handwashing
• Placement of hand sanitizer
• Training staff to avoid close contact-social distancing
• Comply with food safety when handling breakfast, sanitize all dishes, cooking, and serving utensils.
• Train housekeeping with the latest procedures
• Familiarize staff with new cleaning procedures such as disinfecting wipes and frequency to clean.

 

Are guests being screened?

This will be an easy question to have answered. If you're not being screened when checking in, then it's highly likely that others aren't being screened either. Hotels should be calling guests before their stay to determine if they have been exposed to anyone testing positive, and whether or not they have a fever. These factors can help prevent the spread.

 

How does the hotel protect its guests and staff

Ask the hotel what type of cleaners they use and how frequently they disinfect surfaces in the main lobby area. What do they do to ensure sanitation of the guest rooms? All hotels should be using EPA-certified cleaners that are effective against killing the Coronavirus on surfaces. They should also be washing bed linens and towels in hot water and detergent or sending items off for dry cleaning.

 

How does the hotel handle and manage infected guests?

Should the hotel have a problem with a guest that has an infection, what is their policy? Preventing the threat of contamination is the first line of defense. If someone exhibits signs of Coronavirus or has tested positive, the hotel should take action quickly. All surfaces should be disinfected, including the guest's room and anywhere they may have been, including community areas like the gym, pool, or breakfast area. Additionally, card keys should be sanitized before the next use.

 

When was the last time your assigned room was occupied?

In addition to the cleaning practices the hotel, motel, or Airbnb have, you can also ask when was the last time your room was occupied. Rooms that have been vacant for some time may have lower risks of contraction should there have been asymptomatic guests who hadn't known they were infected.

 

What is the occupancy rate of the hotel?

To ensure that social distancing practices are in place, is the hotel limiting the occupancy rate? These are left up to the community usually. Local and state restrictions based on square footage can limit the occupancy substantially.

 

How do they implement strict sanitation on the property? 

Many hotels will look to professionals like Bug Guys Pest Control for disinfection treatment solutions. This ensures that their properties maintain health standards for their guests, without worrying that their employees are not performing the disinfection procedures correctly. 

With commercial sanitation services for hotels, both the establishment and the guests can feel confident that everything is done to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses, such as COVID-19.

 

Conclusion

When staying in a hotel during a pandemic or even in the future, it's important to know their standards in terms of sanitation, particularly the common areas and rooms. Contacting the hotel before check-in to ask about their policies is more than an acceptable practice in today's circumstances. It is a must. Ask if they are using a professional company for disinfection treatments and their policies to safeguard you, other guests, and their employees. 

At Bug Guys Pest Control, we are pleased to provide residential and commercial customers with disinfecting services that can keep your home, hotel, office, or business sanitized against potential bacteria and viruses. Contact us online by clicking here and requesting a free quote, or give us a call today at (442) 227-8409!

 

 

The following post Staying in Hotels: What You Should Know Before You Check-In is available on Bug Guys

Cleaning with Bleach for a Virus-Free Home: Is it Safe?

Bleach has long been used as the cleaner of choice and many homes across the US. It has been known to clean many surfaces, including tabletops, bathroom fixtures, and much more. However, while we're focused on staying safe from things like the COVID-19 pandemic, we start to wonder if cleaning with bleach is the safest option for sanitizing and disinfecting our homes.

While you can use bleach on a variety of surfaces, it is something that you do not want to have around food or anything you ingest. Household bleach can be used on non-porous materials. In this article, we will go over what bleach is, If it's harmful, safe cleaning practices for the home, and much more.

 

 

What is bleach?

Bleach, also known by the names of “household bleach” and “chlorine bleach,” is a concentration of 5.25% or 6% sodium hypochlorite. While chlorine bleach has an active ingredient of sodium hypochlorite, oxygen bleach will contain sodium percarbonate. You'll see this "bleach alternative" in a variety of places and products.

One crucial fact to consider is that because these are two different products, they will work on different surfaces and have different uses. For example, you won't want to use a stain remover for laundry to clean your bathroom or kitchen sink. Typically sodium percarbonate is not used for disinfecting surfaces. Not during standard times or during a pandemic.

 

Uses of bleach

Bleach has many uses. It is a powerful stain remover when used on white surfaces and clothing. It has been used to sanitize toys for children. However, you must be very careful to allow the surface to dry completely. Bleach can also remove mold and mildew around the home, making indoor air quality somewhat safer. Take a look at some of the other great uses households have found to put bleach to work.

• keep sheets and clothing whiter
• keep flowers lasting longer
• eliminates the presence of mold and mildew
• cleans toilets 
• sanitizes plastic toys 
• sanitize and clean kitchen sinks 
• disinfect butcher block top surfaces including cutting boards 
• whiten tile grout

In addition to these areas where bleach is highly effective, let's take a look at each room individually where you may find using bleach to be an excellent option for sanitizing services.

 

 

Laundry

Household bleach has been used in laundry rooms across the United States for decades. Most use this for their whites-only clothing. Though some are formulated to be safe for colors. 

Household bleach can also be used in other areas of the house. It is important to know its difference from the chlorine bleach. Chlorine bleach can be used in different parts of the house, while the one designed for laundry should stay in the laundry room

 

Kitchen

While you can use bleach in the kitchen for things like cleaning and sanitizing a butcher block top, you'll want to be cautious about where you're spraying the bleach. Avoid any areas where food may be present, or in an area that could contaminate your food. Bleach is not edible and should not be ingested. Furthermore, you should not spray bleach or use bleach in a non ventilated area.

 

Bathroom

Bleach is particularly helpful when it comes to cleaning your bathrooms — sanitizing surfaces including the faucet, shower, tub, tile grout, toilet, and just about any other surface in the room. Pro-tip: when using bleach in the bathroom, combine in a water bottle with equal parts water and bleach. This can make it easier to clean and can save you money.

 

Patio

Bleach can be used outside the home as well as inside. Many homeowners find that they can clean patio furniture effectively with bleach too without having issues with staining. To disinfect surfaces used by visitors during the pandemic, simply use the spray bottle method on any areas that may have been touched. This includes tabletops, chairs, and door handles.

 

Proper use of bleach

When cleaning with bleach to sanitize items, it's important to follow safety precautions. Bleach should almost never be used full strength. Meaning, you should never just use it straight out of the bottle. The CDC advised that using unexpired household bleach is an effective method for killing the Coronavirus. Prepare the bleach solution by mixing a third cup of bleach per gallon of water. You can add it to a water bottle to make it easier to apply, or add to a bucket with water for cleaning larger surface areas.

 

Is it safe to use bleach?

It is safe to use bleach to clean certain items. However, as mentioned earlier, you should avoid using bleach around anywhere you may have food present. In addition to these things, you should also never clean with bleach and an area that is enclosed or not properly ventilated. Bleach can have fumes that can cause respiratory issues, which may make you feel light-headed and dizzy.

 

Bleach is toxic

Everyone should know that bleach does carry some degree of toxicity. It should not be ingested, it can also cause irritation and can be corrosive to the skin, lungs, and eyes. When handling bleach, it's important to practice safety measures, including wearing gloves, protective eyewear, and paying close attention to the surfaces being cleaned. Bleach can be toxic to almost any living thing. Remember to store bleach in a safe area away from children and pets.

 

Can interact with other household chemicals

It may be tempting to combine household cleaners to try and intensify the cleaning effects, to hopefully get through cleaning faster, but this is not the answer. It is extremely important that you do not mix bleach with any other household chemical, especially those containing ammonia.

 

Not environment-friendly

Bleach has long had a reputation for being not environmentally friendly. It was one of the first products to be banned by homeowners that had a focus on being eco-friendly. Swapping out bleach for alternatives including all-natural homemade products, found to have similar effects to bleach without harming the environment with hazardous fumes.

 

Use professional disinfection treatment services 

With professional disinfection treatment services, you don't have to worry about the time and extra expenses needed to clean your home. At Bug Guys Pest Control, we are proud to offer disinfection treatments throughout the Coachella Valley. Contact us today by clicking here, or give us a call at (442) 227-8409 to request a free estimate.

Cleaning with Bleach for a Virus-Free Home: Is it Safe? is courtesy of https://www.bugguyservices.com

How to Clean the Interior of the Car? – COVID-19 Tips

We’ve been told that hand washing and being sanitary are excellent ways to safeguard ourselves against the Coronavirus, along with wearing masks and social distancing. But with information being traded, it can be confusing to know what you should and shouldn’t be doing. One particular instance is with surfaces, including our cars. We’re still learning day to day something different with regards to COVID-19. How to clean the interior of the car using this new information about the virus? 

When it comes to cars, people are a little leery. Our mode of transportation to places like the store and work all present a certain level of risk. If you touched a surface that had the virus or came in contact with an infected person, every part of your car could be a potential hot point for spreading the virus. There are estimates that the virus can stay on surfaces ranging from a few hours to 9 days.

For those that want to keep their property safe and clean, you might be wondering how to go about cleaning your car during these times of a pandemic. Take a look at these top COVID-19 tips on how to clean the interior of the car in this time of the pandemic.

Can your car get Coronavirus?

The risk of getting a Coronavirus in your car is slim. You are more likely to get the Coronavirus from a store or in a group setting than in your own vehicle with no other individuals in the car. If you were to transport someone with the virus, then you might be at risk for spreading the virus throughout your vehicle. However, again spreading the virus this way, an infected person would need to be present and touching parts of the car, sneezing, or coughing. 

Those that are most at-risk for transmitting the virus via a vehicle would be Uber and Lyft drivers. These autos transport a variety of individuals and are at the greater potential for coming in contact with the virus. It is essential for ‘for-hire’ drivers to sanitize their vehicles after every customer. 

How to clean the interior of the car to prevent Coronavirus inside?

Before getting started with cleaning the inside of your vehicle, consider acquiring a pair of gloves. Not only is this great for avoiding contact with chemicals, but it can also prevent touching infected surfaces. 

There are many surfaces inside your car to clean. These can include the dash, the seats, carpet, windows, center console, buttons, door handles, and, most importantly, the steering wheel. Remember, for a successful cleaning, you’ll need to have some attention to detail. 

 

 

What do you need?

Before getting started, you’ll want to make sure you have the right cleaning solutions and materials. Here is a short list of items you might need:

• Vacuum
• Carpet brushes
• Microfiber towels
• Cleaning cloths ( or antimicrobial soap and water)
• Window cleaner
• Paper towels
• Spray bottle of water with equal parts of isopropyl alcohol and water.

To reduce the risk of coming in contact with the Coronavirus, if possible, perform cleanings at your home. If not possible, visit car wash when it’s least busy.

 

Cleaning the carpet and floor mats

Remove the floor mats from your vehicle and hang up. For rubber mats, you can wash these at the same time you wash the exterior. Simply rinse with water, apply soap, and rinse again. If you have cloth floor mats, use the spray of alcohol mixture after vacuuming. This can sanitize the carpet fibers. Note, just like hand sanitizer, the concentration of alcohol needs to be over 60%. 

 

Cleaning the seats

Those that have leather or vinyl seats may find it easier to keep these surfaces cleaner. A quick wipe down with a Lysol wipe or an anti-microbial cleaning wipe can sanitize the surface. For cloth seating, you’ll want to vacuum then spray with alcohol. It isn’t advised to spray alcohol directly onto leather seating. Instead, you should spray the alcohol on microfiber towels then wipe down. 

As some of these materials can stain, you should test the cleaning products in inconspicuous areas first. It is important that if you use alcohol on your leather seats, that you follow up with a conditioner. Failure to do so could result in cracking or discolorations of the seats. Meguiar's® Gold Class™ Leather Conditioner is an excellent choice for preserving your car leather. 

 

Cleaning the dashboard

Pay attention to the dashboard and glove box locations. Wipe down with a wipe soaked in alcohol or pre-bought cleaning wipes. Make sure to clean in between buttons and the vents. There are many areas that can be missed on the dashboard, including the instrument cluster or even inside of the glove box. 

Anywhere that you may touch, make sure you wipe down or spray with alcohol. Again with cleaning with alcohol you’ll want to be careful with the material type. This will dry out certain materials making it prone to cracking. Ensure you’re using some type of conditioner for plastic surfaces if applicable. 

 

Cleaning the windows

Along with cleaning the exterior windows, you should also focus on the inside too. Simply spraying with a solution like Windex and wiping up with a paper towel will do nicely. You can then go over with alcohol spray to sanitize. By doing the window cleaner first, you’ll eliminate any dirt and have a streak-free shine.

 

Have a professional vehicle sanitation service

Now that you know how to clean the interior of the car, it may all sound like a ton of work. Well, you might be right. Ensuring your vehicle is clean and sanitized can take hours to complete. This is especially true if it’s been a while since you’ve addressed cleaning your vehicle. Items including wiping down the dashboard and door handles, many have gone unnoticed for some time, but these areas are critical to be cleaned to prevent spread. 

Professional vehicle sanitation services are an excellent way to eliminate the challenges of having your car cleaned and protected from things like the Coronavirus, without the hassles of purchasing products, finding a car vacuum, and avoiding unnecessary interactions with other individuals. 

Bug Guys Pest Control is now offering virus protection plans that can sanitize surfaces, including your vehicle. These services are perfect for anyone that is looking to have greater peace of mind that their car, trucks, or SUVs are sanitized against COVID-19. To inquire about our virus protection services, contact us today at our website or give us a call during regular business hours at (442) 227-8409. 

 

The following post How to Clean the Interior of the Car? – COVID-19 Tips was first published on Bug Guys Pest Control

4 Tips on How to Deal with Ants in Apartment

Have ants overtaken your apartment? As the most common household pest throughout the world, it would come as no surprise. These often annoying insects, though not dangerous, are not something anyone wants to deal with. But what happens when ants start to invade your cozy home? How do you get rid of them? Do all-natural pest control remedies work? Should you consider professional ant control services? 

In this article, we go over a few tips on how to deal with ants in apartment. We will also go over some all-natural methods for stopping them in their tracks. 

 

 

#1 Keeping the place clean

The number one way to stop pests from vacationing in your home is to keep the apartment clean. This is not only great for pest control, but also for getting organized. The top tip for renters is to not leave food out and to limit eating in one area. Typically, those who eat in multiple areas around the house or leave food out, are more likely to encounter an ant problem.

Before you begin another ant control method, if your apartment needs to be cleaned, do so first. Any food on counters should be covered or kept in a sealed container. A good deep cleaning can eliminate an ant problem. Because ants are generally only in your home to look for food, if you have no food source, they will quickly leave.

 

#2 Lemon juice

Before you go to the store to pick up harsh chemicals, consider more all-natural solutions, lemon juice. Lemon juice is readily available, inexpensive, and many homes already have a bottle in their pantry or fridge. Lemons act as a deterrent for ants, making your home less inviting. Place lemon juice around windows and doors, paying particular attention to anywhere there are cracks. 

 

#3 Essential oils

When you think of essential oils, do you think of them more as aromatherapy scents? Essential oils have been used for ages at deterring pests, along with their many other benefits. They are often used in the gardens to distract insects and spiders, including ticks. When dealing with an ant problem in your apartment, essential oils can be a great alternative to more drastic chemical solutions. 

Peppermint 

Peppermint is a well-documented pest deterrent that works incredibly well against ants. To use, add a few drops to water in a spray bottle. Spray around the perimeter of the living room, window sills, or anywhere there could be a potential infestation. Look for vulnerable areas such as gaps and cracks in the doors and windows.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon can do more than increase the level of deliciousness of recipes, like cinnamon rolls. This spice has been proven effective against ants and ant infestations. When in an essential oil form, cinnamon can be applied to many surface areas prone to ant issues. These can include doorways or window sills. 

 

#4 Professional Pest Control For 100% Protection

To get the best protection against your apartment, having professional preventative pest control is the better option. Not only can professional pest control help eliminate unwanted pests, like ants in your residence, they can also keep them away. If you’re not having your rental currently treated, speak with your landlord about having professional pest sprays done. 

 

Conclusion

When dealing with an ant problem or can’t seem to eliminate them from your apartment, consider the above tips to naturally remove the problem using common household practices. However, for the absolute best and the most effective means of eliminating ants and keeping them out of your home, a call to your local pest controller is the top solution.

If you’re tired of seeing ants in your rental or are looking for affordable pest control service for your rental properties, contact Bug Guys Pest Control today. Request service by giving us a call at (442) 227-8409, or visit us online by clicking here. 

The following post 4 Tips on How to Deal with Ants in Apartment was first seen on https://bugguyservices.com/

How Long Does a Wasp Nest Last?

The most feared pest isn’t the large furry ones you see scurrying about, it is those small insects flying around the yard. Wasps and bees have long been the frightening insect most people want to avoid. For most people, the idea of getting stung is something they would prefer to stay far away from. Whether you don’t love the idea of a painful sting, or you or a loved one has an allergy to this pest, learning how to identify the signs of infestation, and facts about their life cycle could be crucial. 

Is it true that wasps will die out in the wintertime? Do you have to get rid of nests in the fall after they're all gone? In this article, we’ll go over when wasps appear, where you’ll typically find nests, and how long they last.

 

 

When do wasps come out?

One of the most frequently asked questions pest controllers receive about wasps, is when do they come out of hibernation. Though it will vary based on region, these creatures tend to move with the climate. Typically you’ll start to see wasps at the end of April or early May. By June or as late as July, they will be fully colonized, containing as many as 10,000 wasps. Artificial light and heat may cause them to ‘wake up’ prematurely. 

 

Where do wasps nests?

Before you can worry about wasp extermination, your pest controller will need to find the source of the wasps, namely their nests. They like to keep their nests usually out of sight. This keeps them safe from natural predators while allowing them to build the colony. Most wasp nests are found underwood, in barns, lofts, on the underside of roofs, and even in cars. 

Any structure that doesn’t move, or not very often like a collection of wood is susceptible to a wasp infestation and a growing nest. Identifying the location is step one for removal. It takes wasps three weeks to make a single nest and build multiples on a property.

 

 

How long does a wasp nest last? 

How long a wasp nest will last semi depends on the type you’re dealing with. There are two main types many homeowners will run into, these being the paper and yellowjacket wasps. But what makes them different? Let’s take a look at each variety, to determine how long the wasp nest will last, and how to identify which may be the problem in your backyard.

Paper Wasp

If you’ve seen smaller comb-like nests, you’ve probably seen a paper wasp nest. These are smaller and only hold around 20-30 wasps on average. The queen will lay eggs throughout late spring and summer, stopping before fall. One the queen stops laying the eggs, the colony dies off. Paper wasp nests last around 3-4 months. They don't reuse a nest and quickly die off when the weather turns colder. 

Yellow Jacket Wasp

Known for being more cunning than paper wasps, Yellowjackets are smart, but they aren’t friendly. Yellowjacket wasps don’t like interactions with humans and will build their nests further away. Nests from a yellowjacket are papery and can be found in the ground or behind walls. The nests of a yellowjacket colony will only last one season; then, the queen will fly off. The nest is then not reused.

 

Do wasps return to the same nest?

The good news about wasps is they won’t return to the same nest year after year though this isn’t a relief, as you can’t predict where they will be the following spring. If you were to leave an active nest alone, the queens will multiply. Each year hibernating wasps emerge, to build a new nest for the queens. The more queens, the more active nests. Each season a nest can produce up to 1,000 fertilized queens. 

 

Wasp nest removal

Getting rid of a wasp nest can seem easy, simply knocking it down. However, there is some risk of removing them on your own. If not correctly disposed of, you could find another infestation next spring. Having professional wasp nest removal is crucial to keeping wasps off your property. If you’re having an active infestation, such as it is already spring/ summer, Bug Guys Pest Control can assist you with a safer removal. Contact us today online for wasp extermination or give us a call today to schedule a free estimate at  (442) 227-8409. 

How Long Does a Wasp Nest Last? is courtesy of https://bugguyservices.com

Organic Tick Control: Does it Work?

 

Ticks can live in gardens, woods, or even your home. Though they don’t often mean to enter your home, that won’t stop them from breeding inside the house. Your family members and pets can often unknowingly bring them in. While many insects aren’t dangerous, ticks do carry the risk of diseases, and for that reason, keeping your home tick-free is likely a priority.

Going green has gained popularity in the last few decades. With more people becoming eco-friendly, the need to eliminate harmful chemicals from everyday use has become a top priority. One of the most discussed chemical uses is those found in pesticides. Pesticides are highly effective, and in recent years have grown significantly safer than those of the past. However, there are many homeowners that would prefer the avoidance of these chemicals altogether.

In this article, we will explore what organic tick control options are available. We will also dive into solutions for naturally controlling ticks in your backyard. Lastly, we’ll cover other preventative measures that can assure your family is safe from ticks all year long.

 

What is organic tick control?

Organic pest control is the safest method for eliminating pests, including ticks. By natural, this could include household remedies, in addition to those you ask for from your local pest controller. Though organic tick control can be performed by your pest controller, traditional methods have been proven more effective in the short and long term. 

Organic tick control using proprietary blends of oils and other herbal compounds act as a deterrent. TIcks are naturally put off by individual plants and smells, and won’t choose to inhabit an area with these known deterrents. Many essential oils can kill ticks, but more importantly, they will create a barrier around your home.

 

 

How to control ticks naturally?

Are you looking to keep chemicals out of your home? If you’re trying to stay eco-friendly, using all-natural and organic products, then you’re probably interested in tick-control using things you can find either around your home or from an all-natural source. Let’s take a look at the popular herbal remedies you can use to keep ticks out of the yard and away from your home.

Cedar Wood Oil

The most popular natural product for getting rid of ticks is cedarwood oil. This is easily sourced and used around the perimeter of your home. Cedarwood oil should be sprayed every six weeks for the best effects, in addition to wood piles, brushes, and any wood line your property might have. 

Cedarwood oil works by suffocating the ticks and their eggs. This all-natural product works throughout the entire life cycle of a tick from larva to adult. Safe around children, pets, and adults, cedarwood oil, is highly effective for all-natural treatments. 

Eucalyptus Oil

This all-natural approach isn’t as practical as cedarwood oil, but it still provides some protection against ticks. Most will use eucalyptus oil for personal protection, applying to the skin every 4 hours. It has a mild, more neutral smell, versus mint and citrus that can be on the pungent side.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is vegetable oil, extracted from the seeds of the Neem Tree. This is a naturally occurring pesticide that is easily sourced, inexpensive, and safe. However, neem oil should not be given to pets, unless diluted, as it can have adverse effects. Neem oil is applied to the skin, similarly to eucalyptus oil.

 

Other Preventive Measures 

We’ve covered all-natural remedies for keeping pests out of your yard. But if you are looking to gain even more protection, there are a few more approaches you can take. The first being to reduce any damp areas around your home. If you have a septic tank, for example, that is leaking or overflowing the drain field, having this problem addressed could reduce the ticks in the area. Ticks love moisture and overgrown grass. Keeping your lawn mowed and reducing damp areas can make your space less inviting. 

If you’re not crazy about applying essential oils around the perimeter of your home or worried that you may have used it incorrectly, talking with your local pest controller is always an option. Preventative pest control with the most effective chemical pesticide Permethrin has long been the deterrent and tick extermination choice for homeowners. It is completely safe and provides protection longer than all-natural.

 

Conclusion

Ticks can be a horrible nuisance in anyone’s yard and home. If you’re concerned with the possible transmission of diseases such as Lyme disease or would like to ensure your family’s safety against these pests, tick control is likely the best solution. Though organic tick control has been proven effective such as with cedarwood oil, there is no comparison to the professional pest services you would find at Bug Guys Pest Control. Are you ready to take control of your yard, and make it a tick-free zone? Contact us today to learn more about our services and to receive a free estimate. Give us a call at (442) 227-8409 or visit us online.

 

The following article Organic Tick Control: Does it Work? was first seen on https://www.bugguyservices.com

Tick vs. Bed Bugs: Knowing the Difference

Ticks and bed bugs are a huge problem. They are both small, annoying pests that bite and have the potential for disease. Though bed bugs are often more commonly connected to the indoors while ticks are associated with outdoors, each can be found in either setting. If you’ve been experiencing an itchy sensation, the primary bugs that may be responsible are ticks and bed bugs. 

In this article, we’ll unlock how to identify whether you’re having a tick or bed bug problem. We will also go in-depth about the signs and symptoms of an active infestation of bed bugs or if there are ticks present. Lastly, we’ll cover the best preventative ways to ensure you won’t deal with a bed bug or tick problem again, including extermination services. 

 

 

Identifying tick vs. bed bug

Bed bugs and ticks are tiny. For that reason, they are often confused with one another. Though they are very different, depending on the tick, the color may vary. Ticks can be brown, black, or even white. Ticks get their color from feeding. They may start as a white tick, but when having a full meal, they can transform into a more silvery-green color. 

Color changing isn’t something bed bugs do. Though they may plump after a meal, they still retain the same brown round-body appearance as they typically do. An adult bed bug will have an oval body and be a reddish-brown. 

Ticks range in color but are often brown and black. Their bodies often reach 1 to 2 millimeters in size but can get as large as 10 mm. Both ticks and bed bugs have tiny legs used to move them. One common myth is that bed bugs and ticks jump; however, this isn’t accurate. Ticks or bed bugs can jump.

The common similarity between ticks and bed bugs is the need to feed. These parasites need a host. They require blood to survive. The dearborn tick most commonly feeds on animals, though it is no stranger to feeding on a human. At the same time, bed bugs are notorious for living in homes typically near beds where they can prey upon sleeping individuals.

Where do they naturally live?

Ticks are often found outside the home, while bed bugs prefer indoors. Though this isn’t always the case, you are more likely to be bitten by a tick outside in a more wooded setting, than you would be in the home. Bed bugs are almost exclusively found in the house, in places like bedding and furniture. Most ticks have ZERO interest in coming into a home. In fact, the reason most people see ticks inside is that a person or pet has carried them inside as the tick was trying to feed. 

Infestation Size

Ticks aren’t typically found in massive groups the way bed bugs are. Though this doesn’t mean you can’t find multiple ticks on you. It will significantly depend on the area in which you travel. Bed bugs will grow their group and live off the host until their numbers are massive. Because breeding isn’t as fast, it can take months for a substantial infestation of bed bugs to become noticeable.

 

Tick vs. Bed Bug Bites

As mentioned above, there are many differences between bed bugs and ticks. The commonality, though, is they are both parasites insects. They require blood to survive. Let’s take a look at some of the signs, symptoms, and health risks associated with both. 

Signs and symptoms of tick vs. bed bug bites

Bed bugs are more stealth-like than a tick. You might be waking up at night feeling itchy or unable to get comfortable in bed because of an itch. These are signs you shouldn’t neglect. Another sign of bed bugs is having a bite pattern of threes, accompanied by an itchy feeling. Bed bugs tend to feed on the lower extremities, including the legs and stomach areas. 

Ticks are less concerned about where they feed and can be found attached almost anywhere, including in the hair, in the pelvic region, or even on your abdomen.

Health Risks

The biggest difference between ticks and bed bugs is disease transmission. Studies have shown that bed bugs are not transmitters of disease. However, ticks are known contributors for disease, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

 

Preventing Infestation

The best method for preventing an infestation of bed bugs and ticks has professional pest control services. Though with bed bugs, you can limit your exposure significantly if you are careful about what you bring in your home. Always wash any second-hand bedding or clothing when staying in a hotel, always clean belongings when you get back home, and keep items sealed in a trash bag or Ziploc bag. Ticks can be deterred with pesticides from your local pest controller. 

 

Conclusion

Ticks and bed bugs are cause for concern. Not only are these pests annoying, but ticks can also transmit horrible diseases like Lyme disease and several bacterias. While they are both parasites, they are both easily treated and preventable. At Bug Guys Pest Control, we offer effective tick control to keep ticks at bay as well as extermination services for bed bugs. To request service for tick control today, visit us online by clicking here or giving us a call at (442) 227-8409. 

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5 Best Remedies for Itchy Mosquito Bites

Almost everyone has encountered a mosquito at some point in their life. Mosquitos are typically hard to avoid, especially in spring and early summer. Plaguing family get-togethers like cookouts and pool parties, mosquitos wait for their opportunity to feed. The worst part of getting bit by mosquitos isn’t getting bit; it’s the relentless itch that coincides with the bite.

An interesting fact about mosquitos, you aren’t likely to be bitten by a male. Mosquitos only feed on people and animals to derive nourishment for their eggs. As females are the carriers of the eggs, they are the only ones that need the protein for egg development. Without blood, the eggs aren’t able to mature, and the female is unable to lay them for hatching.

In this article, we’ll go over why mosquitoes bite the itch. We will also go over some of the best remedies for itchy mosquitoes bites you can do at home. 

Why does mosquito bite itch?

Many wonder how a little insect can create such a massive impact as the mosquito does. Not only do these insects carry diseases, but their bite and the symptoms that follow are usually the chief complaints. To understand why the bite itches, you have to understand what happens in the process of the bite.

Females will seek out humans and animals for a source of protein to develop their eggs. They have a heightened awareness of the carbon dioxide that is exhaled along with lactic acid just under our skin. When the female lands, she will inject a serrated proboscis, to find a capillary. To render the person unaware of what is going on, she will release salvia at the same time to numb the area. The salvia from the mosquito is what will cause you to itch while stopping the clotting process.

Have you ever noticed that the bite site is itchier after you scratch it? The reason you’ll feel the itch more, and why mom always tells you to stop itching is inflammation. Your skin is already reacting to the salvia. The itching will only make the inflammation worse. It will become a vicious cycle. The more you itch, the itchier it will be. So the number one piece of advice, if you’ve been bitten, is to avoid scratching at all costs!

Home remedies for itchy mosquito bites

Now that we understand why the itch of the bites, let’s go over some of the best remedies you can try at home. Many of these can be done with things you probably already have at home, making them the best places to start.

Cold Compresses

You wouldn’t think that an ice pack will make that big of a difference, but it does. The good news for people wanting to alleviate the itch is you can use almost anything cold or frozen. This includes cans of soda, frozen foods, and ice wrapped in a paper towel. Apply the cold compress for five minutes. Remove and assess. If still itchy, reapply.

Calamine Lotion

Most families have a bottle of this soothing pink medicine somewhere in their medicine cabinet or drawer. Calamine lotion is great for soothing the skin; after all, it is used to relieve itching from poisonous plants like poison ivy and sumac. With this trick, use a cotton ball to dap product on. You can cover with a bandaid, but it is better to let the area breathe.

The Hot Spoon Trick

The heat will destroy the protein enzymes causing you to itch. The hot spoon trick is perhaps the most effective at offering instant relief. You can heat a spoon in a cup of warm water, safely over a low-heat burner.

The Homeopathic Route

If you’re looking for something more all-natural and homeopathic, very hot and cold compresses, there are a few methods you can try. The first is using a banana peel. Simply rub the inside of the peel directly onto the skin in a circular motion. The second is to apply mud directly to the bite site. Another option is to use toothpaste. 

Anti-histamines

Benadryl and similar products are great for relieving itch due to an allergic reaction. At the core of a mosquito bite, you have an irritation because of a foreign substance in your body, the saliva of the mosquito. Your body is doing; it’s best to get rid of it. An anti-histamine may take longer to work, but it does a great job of getting rid of the pain. 

Conclusion

No one enjoys being bitten by mosquitos. It is itchy, and if you scratch enough, it can turn painful. Find homeopathic or all-natural relief with remedies right in your home. Choosing a cold compress or heat are the top methods while applying calamine lotion, or taking an antihistamine will also work. 

Better than stopping the itch, preventing mosquito bites is the top solution for avoiding the itchy trap. Professional pest control is the number one way to reduce problematic mosquitos in your yard. Just remember that if you are bitten, don’t scratch. This will heighten the problem, only making it worse.

Are mosquitos a constant problem in your yard? Are you looking for protection against mosquitos? Bug Guys Pest Control is pleased to offer our mosquito control services throughout the Coachella Valley. To schedule a consultation or appointment, or would like to obtain a quote for pest control services, contact us today at (442) 227-8409.

5 Best Remedies for Itchy Mosquito Bites is republished from Bug Guys Services