Why Insects and Bugs are Attracted to the Basement
The two main aspects that make basements a pest haven are moisture and darkness . Camel crickets, millipedes, sowbugs and pillbugs have high moisture needs, which is why they are attracted to basements.
How do I keep bugs out of my basement?
Turn off the lights in your basement during the day and look for light entering the room through cracks. Then seal those cracks. Sealing cracks and crevices and getting rid of boxes, bags and clutter can reduce opportunities for insects to find a welcoming habitat inside your basement. Sweep or vacuum regularly.
Why does my basement have so many bugs?
Like many other pests and rodents, bugs are drawn to cool, dark and moist places that have a steady food supply . Most basements are perfect for this! The cool, damp atmosphere provides a safe space to hide and a likely endless supply of other bugs to snack on.
What kind of bugs live in basements?
Some common pests found in basements include spiders, ants, termites, roaches, crickets, mice, rodents, and bats . Below are some ways to get rid of these creatures and more in your home, with prevention being one of the best and most important steps to keep in mind.
Do dryer sheets keep spiders away?
Readers have confirmed that dryer sheets will repel both spiders and flies . Keep a few extra sheets in clothes hampers and around the laundry area, and you can kiss all those spiders goodbye.
Does a dehumidifier help get rid of bugs?
Before you break out the insecticide, there is one good way to combat fall bugs in your basement or crawlspace – a good dehumidifier. ... Dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air , and dry conditions can drive insects out to seek better accommodations. Most insects don't drink water or anything for that matter.
How do you Spider proof a basement?
- Spray Peppermint Oil. ...
- Grab the Vinegar. ...
- Get Strategic with Citrus. ...
- Use Eucalyptus. ...
- Don't Stack Any Wood. ...
- Keep the Basement Clean. ...
- Place Spider Traps. ...
- Seal Any Openings.
Why do I have pill bugs in my basement?
Yards with excessive moisture and debris often harbor pill bugs. Heavy rainfall during spring and early summer can also drive them inside. Residents frequently find the pests in damp basements or first-floor bathrooms.
Can you bug bomb just the basement?
While it may seem reasonable to stay in a different room of your house while using a bug bomb, we don't recommend taking this action . If the insecticides from the bomb seep into the room you're in, you could experience asthma, conjunctivitis, contact dermatitis, and other serious health conditions.
How do I get rid of sow bugs in my house?
Use of a dehumidifier in combination with good, tight doors and seals and removal of harbourage areas around the home, such as rocks, debris, wood ties, long grasses to reduce the amount of potential habitat and moisture conditions. Sow bugs feed on moss, and other decaying organic matter.
How do I get rid of pill bugs in my basement?
Close up all holes, cracks and crevices: One easy way to keep these little bugs out of your basement is to stop them from entering in the first place. When you move into your new rental home, do a quick perimeter lap of the basement . Look for any cracks, holes or other openings that a pillbug might travel through.
How do I get rid of brown bugs in my house?
The best way to solve a flying brown bug problem would be to dry out the soil, remove (or repot) your plants, use hydrogen peroxide to kill the larvae and use traps to catch adult fruit flies and fungus gnats.
Is Vicks VapoRub an insect repellent?
Many people claim that Vicks Vapor Rub can repel mosquitoes effectively. Vicks Vapor Rub contains a natural insect repellant , cedar leaf oil. ... Not only does it keep mosquitoes away, but it also helps relieve the itchiness that usually comes around as the result of mosquito bites.
Do coffee grounds keep spiders away?
According to the EPA, coffee grounds are a safe and effective way to keep pests away . ... Coffee grounds have a strong smell but it's even stronger when they are burned. This smell will bother the pests and keep them away.
How can you keep spiders out of your home?
You can make a simple but effective spider repellant with vinegar and water . Simply fill a bottle with equal parts water and white vinegar. Spray any cracks or crevices in the floors, walls, and windows of your home to keep spiders away.
How do I get rid of bugs in my basement naturally?
- Set up sticky traps. ...
- Learn about the bugs in your basement so you can feel more at home with them.
- Encapsulate your crawlspace. ...
- Install a dehumidifier. ...
- Use a bug fogger. ...
- Get rid of clutter. ...
- Use a peppermint oil spray.
