The Top 10 Most Common Household Pests and How to Prevent Them

Pests are more than just a nuisance—they can spread diseases, damage property, and make your home an uncomfortable place to live. Whether it’s ants invading your kitchen, rodents chewing through wires, or termites silently destroying wood, knowing how to prevent and control these common household pests is crucial.

At Accurate Pest Management, we help homeowners in Bergen, Essex, Morris, Passaic, and Sussex counties keep their homes pest-free with expert pest control solutions. But before you call in the professionals, here’s what you need to know about the ten most common household pests and how to prevent them.

Ants

Ants enter homes in search of food and water, and once they establish a colony, they’re tough to get rid of.

How to Prevent Ants:

• Store food in sealed, airtight containers.

• Wipe down counters and clean up crumbs immediately.

• Seal cracks around windows, doors, and other entry points.

  
  

Cockroaches

Cockroaches carry bacteria, trigger allergies, and are notoriously resilient. They thrive in warm, damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

How to Prevent Cockroaches:

• Fix leaks and eliminate moisture sources.

• Keep food stored properly and clean up spills right away.

• Use cockroach baits and traps in common hiding spots.

Rodents (Mice & Rats)

Rodents can chew through wires, damage insulation, and contaminate food, posing serious health risks.

How to Prevent Rodents:

• Store food in secure containers.

• Seal cracks and holes in walls, doors, and foundations.

• Set traps or contact Accurate Pest Management for professional rodent control.

Termites

Termites cause extensive structural damage by feeding on wood, often going unnoticed until the destruction is severe.

How to Prevent Termites:

• Keep firewood and debris away from your home.

• Ensure proper drainage and fix any moisture issues.

• Schedule regular termite inspections.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are difficult to detect and can quickly spread through homes, causing itchy bites and allergic reactions.

How to Prevent Bed Bugs:

• Inspect second-hand furniture and hotel rooms before bringing items home.

• Wash bedding at high temperatures and use mattress protectors.

• Vacuum frequently, especially around beds and furniture.

Spiders

Most spiders are harmless, but venomous species like the black widow and brown recluse can be dangerous.

How to Prevent Spiders:

• Reduce clutter where spiders may hide.

• Seal gaps around windows and doors.

• Keep outdoor lights off to avoid attracting insects that spiders feed on.

Flies

Flies spread bacteria and can contaminate food, increasing the risk of illnesses like food poisoning.

How to Prevent Flies:

• Keep garbage bins sealed and dispose of waste regularly.

• Use window screens and keep doors closed when possible.

• Eliminate standing water where flies might breed.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes aren’t just annoying—they can spread dangerous diseases like West Nile virus and Zika virus.

How to Prevent Mosquitoes:

• Remove any standing water around your home.

• Use insect repellent and install mosquito screens.

• Maintain landscaping by trimming bushes and grass to eliminate hiding spots.

Silverfish

Silverfish feed on paper, glue, fabric, and even wallpaper, causing damage to books, clothing, and important documents.

How to Prevent Silverfish:

• Reduce humidity in your home with dehumidifiers.

• Store books and clothing in airtight containers.

• Seal cracks where silverfish may enter or hide.

Fleas

Fleas infest homes and pets, leading to itchy bites and potential health risks for both animals and humans.

How to Prevent Fleas:

• Treat pets with vet-approved flea preventatives.

• Vacuum carpets, pet bedding, and furniture frequently.

• Wash pet bedding and plush toys in hot water regularly.

Protect Your Home with Professional Pest Control

While DIY methods can help prevent pest infestations, some problems require professional intervention. Accurate Pest Management provides expert pest control services in Bergen, Essex, Morris, Passaic, and Sussex counties to keep your home pest-free year-round.

Don’t let pests take over your home—Contact Accurate Pest Management today for a free inspection and customized pest control solutions!

FAQ

What are the most common household pests?

Some of the most common household pests include ants, cockroaches, rodents, termites, bed bugs, spiders, flies, mosquitoes, silverfish, and fleas.

How can I prevent pests from entering my home?

Are household pests dangerous?

What should I do if I see signs of a pest infestation?

How often should I schedule a pest control inspection?