Pests are unwelcome guests that often find their way into our homes, causing damage, and posing health risks to humans and pets. Whether it’s insects, rodents, or other creatures, pest infestations can be a frustrating and expensive problem to deal with.

Here are ten common pests that are found in homes, along with some tips for beginners on how to control them:

Ants: Ants are one of the most common pests found in homes. They are attracted to sweet or greasy substances and can quickly infest a kitchen or pantry. To control ants, clean up spills and crumbs immediately, seal food containers tightly, and use ant bait or spray around entry points.

Cockroaches: Cockroaches are nocturnal insects that can carry diseases and trigger allergies. They thrive in warm and humid environments and can be found in kitchens and bathrooms. To control cockroaches, eliminate sources of food and water, seal cracks and crevices, and use cockroach baits or sprays.

Spiders: While most spiders are harmless, their presence can be unsettling. They often make webs in corners and other hidden areas of the home. To control spiders, keep your home clean and clutter-free, seal up cracks and crevices, and use spider repellents or traps.

Bed bugs: Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood. They can be found in mattresses, furniture, and clothing. To control bed bugs, wash infested bedding and clothing in hot water, vacuum regularly, and use insecticide sprays or powders.

Fleas: Fleas are tiny insects that feed on the blood of humans and pets. They can infest carpets, furniture, and bedding. To control fleas, vacuum carpets, and upholstery regularly, wash pet bedding frequently and use flea sprays or foggers.

Mice: Mice are small rodents that can carry diseases and cause damage to property. They can squeeze through tiny cracks and gaps in walls and floors. To control mice, seal up entry points, eliminate sources of food and water, and use mouse traps or poison.

Rats: Rats are larger rodents that can carry diseases and cause extensive damage to property. They can enter homes through sewer lines and other openings. To control rats, seal up entry points, eliminate sources of food and water, and use rat traps or poison.

Silverfish: Silverfish are small, silver-colored insects that are attracted to starchy or sugary substances. They can infest books, paper, and other organic materials. To control silverfish, reduce humidity levels, seal up cracks and crevices, and use insecticide sprays or traps.

Termites: Termites are wood-eating insects that can cause significant damage to the structure of a home. They are often found in damp and dark areas. To control termites, eliminate sources of moisture, repair any leaks or water damage, and use termite baits or sprays.

Wasps: Wasps are aggressive stinging insects that can build nests in and around homes. They can be attracted to sweet substances and can pose a danger to people with allergies. To control wasps, seal up cracks and crevices, remove sources of food and water, and use wasp repellents or traps.

In addition to these ten pests, there are many others that can find their way into homes. Some of the best ways to prevent pest infestations are to keep your home clean and free of clutter, eliminate sources of food and water, and seal up cracks and crevices. However, if you do find yourself dealing with a pest problem, there are several effective ways to control them.