Are Earwigs Dangerous to Humans and Pets?

Earwigs can be one of the most intimidating creatures you can come across. They have a pair of dangerous-looking pincers attached to the end of their abdomen, which makes them seem threatening. If you find them in your house, it's natural to wonder, “Are earwigs dangerous?”

And that is exactly what we will be addressing in this article. We will also tackle what you can do to spot infections and possibly prevent them from showing up in the first place.

 

What is an earwig?

An earwig is an arthropod, which means it has a hard exoskeleton. Its length can be between 6 to 25 mm long. Earwigs have two antennae and have six legs. While they have wings and forewings, they are rarely used, which is why they are called skin wings.

Earwigs are found on all continents except for Antarctica and are nocturnal. They need moisture to survive. Moist crevices are hiding spots for these insects during the day, and they feed on a wide variety of plants and animals during the night.

The pincers on the rear end of the end are used to defend themselves from threats. And while most creatures similar to them are venomous, earwigs are not. However, earwigs can release a yellow liquid if they feel the need to protect themselves, which is not venomous either. It simply gives off a foul smell that allows the insect to protect itself.

But why are earwigs called earwigs? These insects are known to crawl inside the ears of human beings and lay their eggs in the brain. However, this is not true and is simply a fantasy to instill fear.

 

Are earwigs dangerous?

It’s not a surprise if you consider earwigs dangerous, but thankfully, they are not.

Do they bite? No, they also don’t.

However, earwigs only pinch but do not bite. Their grip is not that painful either, and you might not even notice. They don't have any harmful substances inside their body which makes them less of a threat. In pets like dogs or cats, earwigs can pinch them for a while, but pets wouldn’t notice them since they are not painful. Even if your pets eat these insects, there isn't any problem since they are not poisonous.

 

 

Earwigs and plants

While earwigs are not damaging to humans and pets, they are bad news for your garden. These pests feed on garden flowers and hostas, as well as some garden vegetables. Since these insects rely on moisture for survival, they can be found in any dark and moist place.

Rotting wood, especially where mold has accumulated due to a lot of moisture, is one of the most common places for them to hide. Tender shoots of plants are susceptible to damage, especially if hordes of such insects are found.

But, while they are damaging to some plants, they also protect them to some extent.

What do earwigs eat?

Other pests like aphids and mites are prey for earwigs, and they help get rid of other pests that could be harmful to you and your pets. Dead leaves are also food for these bugs since several species are omnivorous.

 

Spotting infestations at home

It is difficult to spot an earwig infection at home unless a big number of these bugs infest your property. But if you are attentive, you can spot early signs of such Infestations to prevent any worsening of the situation.

Here are some signs that you should look out for to spot infestations at home:

• Foul smell: Since earwigs release a foul liquid when they are under threat, a number of them will give off a foul odor in your house.
• Check moist and unused rooms: Dark and moist places are the typical habitats for earwigs, and checking damp or uninhabited rooms is a good idea to spot an early infestation.
• Use night lights: Like moths, earwigs are attracted to bright lights. So, you should consider using dim lights if you suspect an infestation.
• Dead leaves or mold: Dead leaves, mold, and moist soil is habitat for them. If you have these around your house, there might be an earwig Infestation.

 

How to prevent earwig infestation?

Now that you know the different signs to look out for in the case of earwig Infestation, here are some steps you can take to prevent them:

• Use a dehumidifier to get rid of excess moisture so that the insects don't find a habitable environment near or in your place.
• Fix drains or pipes surrounding your house, so that excess water doesn't leak into the soil and isn't exposed to earwigs.
• Clear any decaying piles of leaves or rotting wood from your premises so that they don't have a proper food source to live on.

 

In conclusion

In this article, we've learned what earwigs are and whether or not they are dangerous. We also discussed what they eat and where they are mainly found. With all this information, it is easier for you to spot, deal with, and prevent infestations.

If you spot the signs, make sure you contact professionals to deal with the problem and get rid of the pests for good.

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What Is a Termite Bond?

Are you worried about termites infesting the woodwork in your house? If so, the most effective solution for you is to negotiate a termite bond with a pest control company.

Home insurance policies don't include damage from termites, which is a big reason why you should consider putting such a deal in place. Property owners often find themselves making trips to pest control services to claim insurance.

If you've ever contacted a pest control company for their services, you will be familiar with this contract. However, if you're not, this article is for you. We will explain what a termite bond is, why you need it and what it covers.

 

What is a termite bond?

Essentially, termite bonds are contracts between pest control companies and their clients. Think of them as maintenance or warranty contracts for termite infestations.

The paperwork contains important details about the service provider and the client's terms for an agreement. Among the details included in the contract are:

• the duration of the agreement
• termite control treatment, and
• whether or not repairs will be provided

A termite bond is normally used to cover the pest control company’s services if termites are discovered in the house. You can transfer these kinds of bonds from one owner to the next, and they can also involve a fee. The amount to be paid depends on the size of the house and can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

There are several different kinds of bonds on the market with respect to the company contacted, and their terms are all different from one another.

 

Termite letter vs. termite bond

A termite letter, unlike a bond, is simply a formal statement that a house is, or is not free of termites at the time of inspection. A letter might also include mentions of other wood-eating pests like carpenter ants or bees.

A typical termite letter agreement can cost you anywhere between $35 to $100.

In essence, while a termite letter only declares whether or not termites were found upon inspection, a bond provides a means to cover the damage if it is found inside the house in context.

 

 

What does a termite bond cover?

As mentioned earlier, a termite bond is a warranty contract between a pest control service and its client. It states that the company will keep your house in check when it comes to termite infestations and will take additional steps, if needed, to deal with the problem.

Termite bonds start with a prevention treatment at the beginning of the contract. These deals usually last a few years and agree upon a schedule to disinfect the premises. You may agree to a routine checkup every few months or create a custom schedule by talking to the company themselves.

The best part about termite bonds is that you won't have to pay anything extra if these pests are found after an inspection. Starting from the contract term, you are not required to pay for any additional services provided by the company if termites are found.

 

Does a termite bond cover damage?

It depends on the company you're consulting. To be clear, damage means the costs of any repairs if termites damage parts of the house.

Depending on the company you agree on terms with, the contract will specify if it will cover the damage. They can provide you disinfection only or disinfection with repairs. It is important that you're clear with the service providers in this regard since a good agreement could end up saving you a lot of money when a bond insures you.

 

Do I need a termite bond?

One of the crucial things about having a termite bond in place is peace of mind. The company will keep an eye on your premises to ensure that termites don’t infect them, and you can end up saving a lot of money, as described earlier.

It is also important to be clear on the issue of termites when buying or selling a house. Inspection can delay the process if termites are discovered. So, if you're the house seller, it is a good idea to go for a termite bond instead of a single service visit. This ensures that the house is insured for the future and protects the property against subsequent infestations as well.

 

In conclusion

In this article, we've covered what is a termite bond, why it is needed, and what it covers. Due to the benefits, it is a great idea to invest in a bond to protect your property against future infestations.

In case of infestations, it is best to contact termite pest control professionals to help you out with the damage. So, consider using Bug Guy Services to help you tackle your termite problems easily. Contact them online and get a free estimate.

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What Are German Roaches?

Cockroaches are some of the toughest pests on planet earth. Even a nuclear explosion might not be enough to wipe these creatures. However, you can still hunt them down individually with your newspaper.

Unless, of course, you have an infestation on your property.
You can’t really handle an army of cockroaches running around your home, especially if they are German roaches.

The average American household or office can have different types of roaches, like American, Asian, and German. Out of the three, German cockroaches are the most common in homes worldwide, including the US.

Are you curious to find out more?

Then jump into our blog to know all about German cockroaches, how they look, and differ from American roaches. Along with that, we will also teach you to spot the signs of German roach infestation.

 

Identifying German roaches

What does a German cockroach look like?

You can identify a German roach using physical features, habitat preferences, and lifecycle habits. We will discuss each elaborately to give you a better idea of what you are dealing with.

Physical appearance

German cockroaches are generally light brown or tan. They have distinct black parallel lines that run behind their heads up to the wings. Some of them can also be dark brown.

The German cockroach’s size is not very big. They usually range between 13mm and 16mm or ½ and 5/8 inches.

Male German cockroaches are slimmer and slender compared to females. They also have a tapered end. On the contrary, females have a wider body and a round posterior.

Habitat

German roaches are common around the world where humans live. However, they cannot live in cold temperatures or without the presence of humans.

Additionally, they prefer the hospitable environment of homes and restaurants rather than the outdoors. They are also more common where food is available like kitchen, living rooms, or your bedroom.

German roaches can also travel from infested sites in bags, appliances, and luggage to your home.

Lifecycle

The German cockroach life cycle consists of three primary stages: egg, nymph, and adult.
The lifecycle is of around 100 days, although factors like temperature or food can alter it. A German cockroach can also produce thousands of offspring every year.

 

German cockroach vs. American cockroach

How can you tell between a German and an American cockroach?

American cockroaches are the second most common roaches in the US. They can grow to become big and reach 4cm or even 2 inches. In comparison, German roaches measure less than an inch.

American roaches also have reddish or dark-brown bodies and a pale yellow thorax. German cockroaches, on the other hand, are primarily light brown.

Additionally, American roaches are generally found outside or in moist areas of homes like basements or bathrooms. On the contrary, German varieties mostly live inside homes closer to food sources.

Moreover, German roaches don’t fly, while American ones can.

 

What attracts German roaches?

German roaches like to live comfortably. Several things in your home can invite these cockroaches and provide refuge, like:

• Food
• Warmth
• Water
• Garbage

Food

German cockroaches eat almost anything under the sun, from pizza crumbs to your toothpaste. They can also devour pet food, book bindings, gum, and soap. As a result, almost any home can attract these pests.

Warmth

German roaches cannot live in cold temperatures. They are also missing in houses without central heating in northern regions.

So, a warm and cozy home is a nice incentive for them.

Water

We all need water to survive and so do cockroaches. Hence, water can also attract German cockroaches.

Garbage

German cockroaches also eat garbage. Therefore, your garbage bins can also invite them in.

 

 

Signs of infestation

Addressing an infestation is crucial as German roaches can put your health and wellbeing at risk. They can:

• Contaminate food with droppings and defensive secretions
• Bring on allergic responses
• Contaminate your utensils, toothbrush, and drinkware
• Invite many sicknesses like food poisoning and dysentery
• Cause physiological discomfort
• Bite and eat food from human skin like around the mouth

As a result, you should always stay proactive to identify and deal with a cockroach infestation.

How to know if you have German roaches?

A range of signs can help you determine if you have a German cockroach infestation in your home. Keep an eye for the following signs that indicate cockroaches have taken over your house:

Odor

A large number of cockroaches can create an unpleasant odor. In the case of German cockroaches, you can smell a “musty” or stale smell when too many of them end up inside your house.

Droppings

Droppings are a sure sign of cockroach infestation. German roaches have droppings that look like tiny dots or pepper. You can also find dark spots left by fecal staining around your house.

However, the most common areas include your kitchen shelves, door tops, room corners, and around cracks in walls or floors.

Active at daytime

German roaches are generally nocturnal insects. So, if you spot one or two of them scouting around during the day, you have enough reasons to get suspicious.

Empty eggs

German cockroaches can leave a lot of eggshells around your house. So, try to spot eggs or empty shells to find out if you have an infestation.

You may also sometimes find them safely deposited in corners or hard-to-reach places.

Shed skin

Cockroaches shed skin as they grow up from the nymph stage. So, look out for shed skins around the house, among other signs.

 

Final thoughts

German roaches are the most common unwanted guests in your house. You can easily spot them by their light brown color and parallel stripes. Contact a professional pest control service if you think you have an infestation for quick and sure extermination. You can also contact us for a free quote or a fool-proof pest control job.

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Centipede vs. Millipede: Are Both Dangerous?

Centipedes and millipedes look alike and are common home pests all around the world. They are also found in Coachella Valley and can be crawling under your carpet right now!
However, you have nothing to worry about as these are not lethal. So, you can take a breath and read our centipede vs. millipede comparison to learn how to differentiate between the two. We will discuss their physical appearance and how you can recognize the unwanted guests in your house.

Additionally, we will also tell you how to eliminate and keep them away from your home.

 

Centipede vs. millipede: noticeable differences

You can identify between a centipede and a millipede by their appearance, where they live, food they eat, and more. We will take up each factor in detail to better understand what to look for.

1. Physical appearance

What does a centipede look like?

A centipede looks like an earthworm but has a segmented body. It crawls very fast and may sport different patterns on its body segments. They have multiple legs that grow away from the body. Now, how many legs does a centipede have?

A centipede has a pair of legs on each body segment that can be between 15 to over 100. Therefore, a centipede’s legs can range between 30 and over 100. Hence the name ‘centipede’ meaning a hundred legs!

What does a millipede look like?

A millipede looks like a centipede and also has a segmented body. However, it has two pairs of legs on each body segment, whereas centipedes have only one pair. Additionally, the legs of millipedes point towards the ground instead of spreading out.

You can also distinguish between centipedes and millipedes by their behavior. Centipedes will crawl away when they sense human presence. Millipedes, on the other hand, will curl up and stay at the same place.

2. Size

Both centipedes and millipedes vary greatly in size. The smallest centipede can be 1 cm or 0.4 inches long, while the largest can reach up to 30 cm or 12 inches.
Giant centipedes can even hunt and eat small mammals.

On the other hand, Millipedes range between 0.20 cm or 0.08 inches and 27 cm or 11 inches.

3. Habitat

Centipedes and millipedes live on the land and are present everywhere except Antarctica. They can live in both dry and humid conditions, though centipedes prefer dry habitats more. You can also find centipedes in the desert.

Millipedes, on the contrary, like to stay in moist environments. They are common in forests, grasslands, and even your washroom. You can also find millipedes under the soil and deep in mountain caves.

4. Food source

Centipedes are carnivorous predators and live off small insects and pests. They use their claws to poison their prey and hunt them.

Millipedes eat rotting plant materials like leaves. They do not hunt or kill other insects.

Are house centipedes poisonous?

Are centipedes dangerous? Do they bite you? What about those that enter our houses?
You can give a rest to your worries as centipedes are not dangerous. However, they can still bite you, and larger ones may puncture your skin to release venom. But their poison is not lethal, and the bite feels like a wasp sting.

Therefore, you are better off not handling those creepy crawlies by yourself. Also, centipedes will crawl away quickly once they detect human presence. So, it’s rare to get bitten by a house centipede.

Are house millipedes poisonous?

Now comes the question, are millipedes poisonous?

You will be relieved to know house millipedes are neither dangerous nor poisonous. In addition, they do not bite humans or cause any discomfort. However, they do release small amounts of chemicals as a defense mechanism when irritated. The chemicals can contain poison, such as cyanide, although in very small quantities.

As a result, you have nothing to fear about millipedes. You can handle them safely, but ensure to wash your hands thoroughly afterward to remove any chemicals.

 

How to get rid of centipedes and millipedes

Here are a few ways you can use to drive away centipedes and millipedes from your home:

1. Kill the creepy crawlies

You can try a few methods if you want to kill centipedes or millipedes present in your house. Your local hardware store will have insecticides that exterminate them instantly. You can also try natural insect killers like boric acid, soapy water, and cayenne pepper.

2. Use your vacuum cleaner

You can simply use your vacuum cleaner to get rid of centipedes. Plus, it works well for hiding spots where you cannot easily reach. Look to vacuum out all the corners and crevices in your home, so you can suck these arthropods no matter where they are hiding.
Just ensure to dispose of your dust bag far away from home!

3. Use sticky traps

You can lay sticky traps around your house to catch millipedes and centipedes. They are also great for catching other pests that lurk around in your home.

 

How to prevent centipedes and millipedes

Try the following so that these pests never return to your home:

• Use a dehumidifier to keep your home dry
• Seal all cracks in walls and floors
• Clean all hiding places around your house
• Get rid of clutter where they can hide
• Eliminate other pests that attract centipedes

 

Final thoughts

We hope you now know how to differentiate between a centipede vs. millipede. You can also try the ways we highlighted to get rid of them. However, for serious infestations, seek help from a professional pest control agency. You can contact us for residential pest control to get a free estimate.

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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!

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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/