Few pests are as universally loathed as fleas. These tiny, acrobatic insects can turn a comfortable home into an itchy nightmare for both pets and humans. In Redlands, CA, where the warm climate can allow fleas to thrive year-round, understanding effective prevention and professional treatment is essential. As a leading pest control company in Redlands, Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control, Inc., is here to share our expert insights on keeping your home and pets flea-free.

Understanding the Flea Threat

Fleas are not just an itchy annoyance; they pose real problems. They are external parasites that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. While they are most commonly associated with pets, they will readily bite humans, especially when pet hosts are unavailable or the infestation is severe. Beyond the relentless itching, scratching, and potential skin infections, fleas can transmit diseases. Though less common, flea-borne diseases like Bartonellosis (cat scratch disease) and Murine Typhus can affect humans. For pets, fleas can cause severe allergic reactions (flea allergy dermatitis), leading to hair loss and intense skin irritation. Heavy infestations can even cause anemia, particularly in young or debilitated animals.

How Fleas Invade Your Redlands Home

Fleas are master hitchhikers. The most common ways they enter your home include riding in on pets. This is the primary culprit, as even well-groomed pets can pick up fleas from infested yards, dog parks, or even brief encounters with other animals. Wildlife, such as raccoons, opossums, squirrels, and even stray cats, can carry fleas into your yard, from where they can jump onto your pets or directly into your home. Less commonly, humans can inadvertently carry fleas indoors on clothing or shoes. Additionally, infested second-hand furniture or carpeting can introduce fleas directly into your living space.

Once inside, fleas don’t just stay on your pet. Adult fleas lay eggs, which fall off the host into carpets, pet bedding, cracks in flooring, and upholstery. These eggs hatch into larvae, which feed on flea feces (dried blood) and organic debris before pupating. The pupa stage is incredibly resilient, capable of remaining dormant for months, waiting for vibrations, warmth, or carbon dioxide (indicating a host) to emerge as hungry adults. This complex life cycle makes fleas so challenging to eradicate.

Expert Flea Prevention for Redlands Homes

Preventing fleas is always easier than treating an established infestation. Our top recommendations for homeowners include establishing consistent pet treatment by working with your veterinarian to establish a year-round, vet-approved flea preventative for all pets. This is your first and most critical line of defense. Regular cleaning is also vital, which involves vacuuming carpets, rugs, and upholstery frequently, especially areas where pets spend time. Immediately dispose of vacuum bags outside your home. Additionally, wash pet bedding weekly in hot water. Yard maintenance also plays a role. Keep your lawn mowed short and trim back overgrown vegetation, as this reduces shady, humid areas where fleas thrive. It’s also wise to avoid attracting wildlife to your yard. While not their primary entry, sealing cracks in the foundation and gaps around doors and windows can help deter fleas and other pests.

When to Call a Professional for Flea Treatment in Redlands

If you’re already seeing fleas jumping, noticing bites on yourself or your pets, or finding flea “dirt” (flea feces) in pet fur, you likely have an active infestation. Flea pupae are resistant to most insecticides, and new adults will continue to emerge long after initial treatments. This is where professional expertise becomes invaluable.

At Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control, Inc., our expert technicians serving Redlands and the whole Inland Empire understand the complete flea life cycle. We use integrated pest management strategies that combine targeted insecticide applications with advice on environmental controls. Our professional treatments penetrate deep into carpets and cracks to eliminate adults, larvae, and eggs. We focus on breaking the flea life cycle, ensuring comprehensive eradication and preventing future outbreaks.

Don’t let fleas dictate your comfort. For effective and lasting flea prevention and treatment in Redlands, CA, trust the experts at Craig & Sons. Contact us today at 909-335-1486 for a consultation and reclaim your home from these persistent pests.

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Temecula’s warm climate provides an ideal environment for various pests, and cockroaches are a common concern for homeowners and businesses alike. These resilient insects can quickly infest properties, spreading bacteria and triggering allergies. Understanding the different types of cockroaches found in Temecula, how they enter, and what keeps them thriving is crucial for effective control and prevention.

Common Cockroach Species in Temecula

Several cockroach species can infest properties in Temecula, but some are more prevalent than others:

• German Cockroach (Blattella germanica): This is the most common indoor cockroach. They are small (about ½ to ⅝ inch long), light brown with two dark parallel bands on their pronotum (the shield-like segment behind the head). They prefer warm, humid environments like kitchens and bathrooms and reproduce rapidly.
• American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana): Also known as the “palmetto bug” or “water bug,” these are one of the largest cockroach species (up to 2 inches long). They are reddish-brown and prefer damp areas like sewers, drains, and basements. They can also fly short distances.
• Oriental Cockroach (Blatta orientalis): These cockroaches are shiny black or dark reddish-brown and about 1 inch long. They prefer cool, damp places like basements, crawl spaces, and under sinks. They are often found outdoors in leaf litter and under debris.
• Turkestan Cockroach (Blatta lateralis): Increasingly common in Southern California, these cockroaches are similar in size to the Oriental cockroach, with reddish-brown or orange-brown coloring. They are often found outdoors but can infest homes, particularly in areas with leaf litter and mulch.

How Cockroaches Enter Homes and Businesses

Cockroaches are opportunistic and can enter properties through various means:

• Cracks and Crevices: Even small openings in walls, foundations, windows, and doors provide easy access for cockroaches.
• Pipes and Drains: Cockroaches can travel through sewer lines and enter buildings through drains and pipes, especially in older structures.
• Brought in with Items: Infested items like grocery bags, cardboard boxes, furniture, and appliances can introduce cockroaches into a property.
• Neighboring Properties: In multi-unit dwellings or closely spaced homes, cockroaches can easily migrate from one unit to another.

Factors that Attract and Sustain Cockroach Infestations

Once inside, cockroaches thrive in environments that provide them with food, water, and shelter:

• Food Sources: Cockroaches are omnivorous and will eat almost anything, including crumbs, spilled food, pet food, garbage, and even book bindings and glue.
• Water Sources: Leaky pipes, dripping faucets, standing water, and even condensation provide essential moisture for cockroaches.
• Harborage Areas: Cockroaches prefer dark, secluded spaces like cracks and crevices in walls, behind appliances, under sinks, and in cluttered areas.
• Warmth and Humidity: Temecula’s warm climate, combined with indoor humidity, creates ideal conditions for cockroach reproduction and survival.

Preventing Cockroach Infestations in Temecula

Taking proactive steps is essential to prevent cockroach problems:

• Seal Entry Points: Caulk cracks and crevices in walls, foundations, and around pipes. Install weather stripping around windows and doors.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean kitchens and bathrooms, wiping down counters, sweeping floors, and promptly cleaning up spills. Store food in airtight containers and take out the trash regularly.
• Manage Moisture: Fix leaky pipes and faucets. Ensure proper drainage around the property. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas.
• Proper Food Storage: Store pet food and other potential food sources in sealed containers.
• Landscaping Practices: Keep vegetation trimmed away from the building and remove debris that could provide harborage for cockroaches.
• Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect potential harborage areas for signs of cockroach activity, such as droppings, egg casings, and shed skins. Craig & Sons technicians routinely look for signs of cockroach activity during our recurring services.

Cockroach Control Methods

If an infestation occurs, several control methods can be employed:

• Baits: Cockroach baits contain an insecticide mixed with a food attractant. They are effective for controlling many cockroach species.
• Insecticides: Liquid sprays, dusts, and aerosols can be used to target cockroach harborage areas. However, proper application is crucial to avoid health risks.
• Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs): These disrupt the development of cockroaches, preventing them from reaching maturity and reproducing.
• Professional Pest Control: For severe infestations or difficult-to-control species, contact our office. Professionals have access to specialized products and techniques for effective cockroach elimination.

Protecting Your Property in Temecula

Cockroaches are persistent pests that can pose significant health and sanitation problems. By understanding their habits, taking preventive measures, and seeking professional pest control from Craig & Sons, Temecula residents and businesses can effectively manage cockroach populations and maintain a pest-free environment. Regular inspections and proactive prevention are key to avoiding future infestations.

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Because the Inland Empire has mild winters compared to other regions, pests are looking to invade your home or business year-round. In fact, many pests actively seek shelter from cooler temperatures, often finding refuge inside your properties. This makes winter pest control just as important as during other seasons. These are the five most common winter pests in Riverside and San Bernardino counties and why recurring pest control is the best option for protecting your property.

Top 5 Winter Pests in Southern California

1. Rodents (Rats and Mice): As temperatures drop, rodents seek warm, sheltered places to nest. They can enter homes through small cracks and crevices, bringing with them health risks and causing damage to insulation, wiring, and stored food.
2. Cockroaches: Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid environments. During winter, they seek refuge indoors, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, where they can find food and water.
3. Ants: While ant activity may slow down in winter, colonies don’t disappear. They often nest within walls and other protected areas, remaining active and foraging for food when conditions are favorable.
4. Spiders: Many spider species seek shelter indoors during the winter months. While most are harmless, some, like the black widow, can pose a health risk with their venomous bites.
5. Stored Product Pests: These pests, such as pantry moths and beetles, infest stored food items like grains, flour, and pet food. They can remain active throughout the winter, causing contamination and spoilage.

Why Recurring Pest Control is Essential

While one-time treatments can address immediate pest problems, recurring pest control offers several key advantages, especially during winter: preventative protection, targeted treatments, early detection, consistent monitoring, reduced pesticide use, and peace of mind. Recurring services establish a protective barrier around your property, preventing pests from entering in the first place. This is especially important during winter when pests are actively seeking shelter. Pest control professionals tailor treatments to specific pest pressures and seasonal changes. During winter, they focus on preventing rodent entry, addressing cockroach harborage areas, and targeting overwintering ant colonies. Regular inspections by trained professionals can detect early signs of pest activity before infestations become severe. This can save you time, money, and stress. Recurring services include ongoing monitoring to track pest activity and adjust treatment strategies as needed. This ensures continuous protection throughout the year. By focusing on prevention and early detection, recurring pest control minimizes the need for extensive pesticide applications. This is better for your family, pets, and the environment. Knowing that your property is protected by a professional pest control service provides peace of mind, especially during the winter months when pests are actively seeking shelter.

Protecting Your Property This Winter

Winter pest control is not just about eliminating existing pests; it’s about preventing future infestations. By investing in recurring pest control services, you can create a pest-free environment and protect your property from the damage and health risks associated with winter pests. A proactive approach is always more effective and less costly than dealing with a full-blown infestation. Don’t wait until you see signs of pests; contact a qualified pest control professional to schedule a preventative inspection and treatment. This will ensure your home or business remains pest-free throughout the winter and beyond.

Schedule your comprehensive inspection and first treatment by calling the Craig & Sons office at 909-335-1486 or emailing us at info@craigandsons.com.

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Pest activity is just about at its peak in and Inland Empire summer. The warm weather provides ideal breeding conditions for many insects and rodents, making effective summer pest control essential for protecting your home and property. Here are the five most frequently encountered summer pests in Riverside and San Bernardino counties and explains the advantages of a recurring pest control strategy for maintaining a pest-free property.

Top 5 Summer Pests in Southern California

1. Ants: Ants are highly active during the summer, foraging for food and water. They are attracted to sugary substances, crumbs, and pet food left outdoors. Common species in Southern California include Argentine ants, odorous house ants, and pavement ants.

2. Cockroaches: Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid conditions. Summer heat accelerates their reproductive cycle, leading to rapid population growth. They seek shelter in dark, damp areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

3. Spiders: While spiders are present year-round, their populations tend to increase during the summer as insect prey becomes more abundant. Most spiders are harmless, but some, like black widows, can pose a health risk.

4. Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, and summer rain or irrigation can create numerous breeding sites. They are not only a nuisance but also vectors for diseases like West Nile virus.

5. Fleas and Ticks: These external parasites thrive in warm weather and are often brought into homes by pets. They can cause discomfort for both pets and humans, and ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Why Recurring Pest Control is Essential for Summer

While a single pest control treatment can address an immediate infestation, recurring pest control provides consistent, long-term protection, which is especially crucial during the summer months. Here’s why:

• Continuous Prevention: Recurring services create a protective barrier around your property, preventing pests from entering in the first place. This proactive approach is far more effective than reacting to an existing infestation.

• Targeted Seasonal Treatments: Pest control professionals tailor their treatments to the specific pests prevalent during each season. In summer, they focus on controlling ants, cockroaches, mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks, using targeted methods and products.

• Early Detection and Monitoring: Regular inspections by trained technicians can identify early signs of pest activity before infestations become widespread. This allows for prompt intervention and prevents minor problems from escalating into major issues.

• Elimination of Breeding Sites: Professionals can identify and eliminate potential breeding sites for pests like mosquitoes and cockroaches, reducing their populations around your property.

• Reduced Pesticide Use: Recurring pest control emphasizes preventative measures and targeted treatments, minimizing the need for broad-spectrum pesticide applications. This is better for your family, pets, and the environment.

• Protection for Outdoor Activities: Summer is a time for outdoor activities, and recurring pest control helps ensure that your yard and outdoor spaces are free from pests like mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks, allowing you to enjoy your time outdoors without worry.

• Peace of Mind: Knowing that your property is consistently protected by a professional pest control service provides peace of mind throughout the summer months, allowing you to relax and enjoy the season without the stress of pest problems.

Protecting Your Property This Summer

Summer pest control is a crucial investment for protecting your home and health. By opting for our recurring pest control services, you can create a pest-free environment and prevent the damage and health risks associated with summer pests. At Craig & Sons, we offer three tiers of service that will meet your prevention and budget needs. A proactive approach is always more effective and less costly than dealing with a full-blown infestation. Call and speak to a courteous member of our team today at 909-335-1486.

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Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They can be found anywhere in Redlands or Yucaipa. While not known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause itchy welts and significant psychological distress. These resilient pests are increasingly prevalent, and understanding their habits and the challenges of eradication is crucial for protecting your home and health. This post warns of the dangers of bed bugs and explains why professional intervention is typically necessary for effective elimination.

Identifying Bed Bugs

Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed (¼ inch), reddish-brown in color, and have a flat, oval shape. After feeding, their bodies swell and become more elongated and reddish. Young bed bugs (nymphs) are smaller and lighter in color.

Signs of Infestation

• Bites: Small, red, itchy welts on exposed skin, often appearing in clusters or a line. However, not everyone reacts to bed bug bites, making identification challenging.
• Live Bed Bugs: Spotting live bed bugs is a definitive sign of infestation. Look for them in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, headboards, and other cracks and crevices near sleeping areas.
• Fecal Spots: Small, dark spots (resembling ink stains) on bedding, mattresses, or walls are bed bug excrement.
• Shed Skins: As bed bugs grow, they shed their exoskeletons. These shed skins are light brown and can be found in infested areas.
• Musty Odor: A heavy infestation may produce a distinct, musty odor.

Health Concerns

While bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause several health issues:

• Itching and Skin Irritation: Bed bug bites cause intense itching, which can lead to scratching and secondary skin infections.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals experience more severe allergic reactions to bed bug bites, including blistering, hives, or swelling.
• Sleep Disturbances: The constant itching and anxiety associated with bed bugs can significantly disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue, stress, and decreased quality of life.
• Psychological Stress: Dealing with a bed bug infestation can be emotionally taxing, causing anxiety, shame, and even social isolation.

Why Professional Treatment is Essential

Unlike many other household pests, bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eradicate without professional help. Craig & Sons technicians are routinely trained and educated on the most effective methods. Several factors contribute to this:

• Hidden Harborage: Bed bugs are excellent hiders, concealing themselves in tiny cracks and crevices, making them difficult to reach with DIY methods.
• Resistant Populations: Some bed bug populations have developed resistance to common over-the-counter insecticides, rendering DIY treatments ineffective.
• Egg Survival: Bed bug eggs are extremely resilient and can survive even harsh conditions. Professional treatments are designed to target both adults and eggs.
• Thoroughness of Professional Treatments: Pest control professionals use specialized equipment and techniques, such as heat treatments, steam treatments, and targeted insecticide applications, to ensure thorough eradication.

The Southern California Climate and Travel

The warm climate in Southern California can contribute to bed bug survival and reproduction. Warmer temperatures can accelerate their life cycle, leading to faster population growth.

Travel is a significant factor in the spread of bed bugs. They can easily hitchhike in luggage, clothing, and other personal belongings. When traveling, it’s essential to:

• Inspect Hotel Rooms: Before unpacking, carefully inspect the bed, headboard, and surrounding areas for signs of bed bugs.
• Keep Luggage Off the Floor: Use luggage racks to keep your belongings off the floor, reducing the risk of bed bugs crawling into your luggage.
• Inspect Luggage Upon Returning Home: After traveling, inspect your luggage thoroughly before bringing it inside your home. Wash all clothing in hot water and dry it on high heat.

Bed bugs are a serious pest problem that requires professional intervention for effective eradication. DIY methods are often ineffective and can even worsen the infestation. If you suspect a bed bug problem, call us immediately at 909-335-1486. Early detection and professional treatment are key to preventing a full-blown infestation and protecting your health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help—it’s the most effective way to eliminate these persistent pests.

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Keeping unwanted pests out of your home is a constant battle for many homeowners. While reactive measures like exterminators are necessary in some cases, a proactive approach to pest prevention is far more effective and less disruptive. This post explores practical pest prevention tips grounded in the science of pest control, explaining how different treatment methods work.

Understanding Pest Behavior: The Foundation of Prevention

Effective pest control isn’t just about killing existing pests; it’s about understanding their biology and behavior. Craig & Sons technicians are experts at both. Pests, like all living organisms, have basic needs: food, water, and shelter. By eliminating these resources, we can make our homes less attractive to invaders.

• Food Sources: Crumbs, open food containers, pet food left out, and even improperly stored garbage provide ample sustenance for pests like ants, roaches, and rodents.
• Water Sources: Leaky pipes, standing water in gutters or around the foundation, and even pet water bowls can attract pests like mosquitoes, roaches, and rodents.
• Shelter: Cracks and crevices in walls, gaps around windows and doors, cluttered storage areas, and overgrown vegetation provide ideal hiding and nesting places.

Practical Prevention Strategies:

Based on this understanding, here are key prevention strategies:

1. Seal Entry Points: This is the first line of defense. Inspect your home’s exterior for any cracks, gaps, or holes. Use caulk to seal cracks in foundations, walls, and around pipes. Install weather stripping around windows and doors. Replace damaged screens. This prevents pests from physically entering your home.
2. Maintain Cleanliness: Regular cleaning is crucial. Wipe down counters and tables after meals, sweep or vacuum floors frequently, and promptly clean up spills. Store food in airtight containers and take out the trash regularly. This removes potential food sources, making your home less appealing.
3. Manage Moisture: Fix leaky pipes and faucets immediately. Ensure proper drainage around your home’s foundation. Clean gutters regularly to prevent water buildup. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements or crawl spaces. This eliminates essential water sources for pests.
4. Landscaping Practices: Trim shrubs and trees away from your home’s foundation. Keep your lawn mowed and remove debris like fallen leaves and branches. Store firewood away from the house. This reduces potential harborage areas for pests.
5. Proper Storage: Store items in sealed plastic containers rather than cardboard boxes, especially in garages and attics. This protects belongings and prevents pests from using them as nesting sites.

The Science Behind Pest Control Methods:

When prevention isn’t enough, understanding how different treatment methods work is essential. At Craig & Sons, we employ an Integrated Pest Management strategy that combines many of the tactics described here:

• Insecticides: These chemicals target the nervous system of insects, disrupting their ability to function. Different insecticides have varying modes of action. Some work on contact, while others are ingested. Understanding the target pest is critical for choosing the right insecticide.
• Baits: These contain a food attractant mixed with a pesticide. Pests are drawn to the bait, consume it, and are subsequently eliminated. Baits are effective for controlling ants, roaches, and rodents.
• Traps: These physically capture pests. Snap traps are commonly used for rodents, while sticky traps can capture insects. Traps are useful for monitoring pest activity and eliminating small infestations.
• Boric Acid: This naturally occurring compound is toxic to insects when ingested. It’s often used in bait stations or as a dust in cracks and crevices.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): This comprehensive approach to pest control combines multiple strategies, including prevention, monitoring, and targeted treatments. IPM emphasizes minimizing pesticide use and prioritizing long-term solutions.

Working with Pest Control Professionals:

For severe infestations or difficult-to-control pests like termites, professional pest control services are often necessary. Our technicians have access to specialized equipment, training, and more potent treatments. They can also conduct thorough inspections to identify the source of the problem and develop a tailored treatment plan.

By understanding the basic needs and behaviors of pests and implementing proactive prevention strategies, Inland Empire homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of infestations. Combining these efforts with knowledge of different treatment methods empowers our experts to make informed decisions about pest control and maintain your healthy, pest-free home or business.

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Should you schedule a pest inspection before you list your home for sale? Even though a full pest inspection isn’t always a requirement for sellers (legal sales requirements vary by state), take a look at what you need to know about contracting this service before you begin the listing process.

Learn about the Local Laws

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Have you ever heard of the idea of using pheromone lures in insect traps? You may assume that these traps will help you control pest infestations. However, because of how they work, these traps are typically only useful for one or two specific aspects of pest control, such as alerting you to a problem.

Here’s what you need to know about pheromone traps and how you can use them in the fight against pests.

Pheromone Traps Use Lures and Sticky Paper

First, you need to know the basics of how a pheromone trap works. Typically, these traps will include the pheromones needed to lure the insect in. The pheromones may be embedded in a lure that comes sealed in plastic so the pheromones won’t dissipate before you purchase it. Once you assemble the trap, the lure emits pheromones into the air.

These traps typically use sticky paper so that when the insect lands or crawls near the lure, it’s trapped and can’t leave.

Pheromone Traps Attract Specific Pests

The insect kingdom has a mind-boggling amount of diversity. Even the small moths that could infest your pantry aren’t necessarily all of the same type. Grain Moths and Indian Meal Moths are two potential culprits if you find a moth problem in your pantry.

However, because they’re different species, these two types of moths may not be attracted to the same pheromones. In addition, if you buy a trap designed for clothing moths, neither the Indian Meal Moth nor the Gran Moth will be attracted. So you can only use pheromone traps against very specific types of pests. Check the label to see which types of pests it attracts.

Pheromone Traps May Only Attract One Sex or Stage of Insect

Typically, pheromone lures are created using the pheromone profile of the female insect. Because the male insects will be biologically drawn to these pheromones, the trap may be relatively effective against males; yet it may catch no females at all. Check the product to see if it’s designed to catch both males and females or only males.

In addition, the pheromones are only likely to be effective against insects at a certain stage in their life cycle. Typically, this means that fully-grown moths, for example, could be attracted, while larvae and eggs will be unaffected.

Pheromone Traps Can Monitor for Unknown Infestations

If pantry moths do infest your house, they’ll do it quietly, and the infestation may be quite unobtrusive at first. But if you have pheromone traps in place that target the insect in question, the traps can act as an early warning. This function can let you know about the problem sooner so you can deal with the insects before they’re deeply entrenched.

Pheromone Traps Can Cut Down on Population Growth

Pheromone traps can provide one additional service in controlling an infestation. The more male moths land on the trap, the fewer will be able to pass on their genes. If you have a lot of moths already, taking some of the males out of circulation like this may help reduce the speed of the population explosion.

Keep in mind, though, that you can’t expect the trap to necessarily catch the males before they breed, so the trap won’t finish off an infestation by itself. The trap only serves as one portion of a larger extermination effort.

As you can see, pheromone traps can be an ingenious tool to use against insect pests, yet they can have limited application against a full-blown infestation. When an infestation occurs, your pheromone traps may alert you to the fact and may even slow population explosions in some cases, but you’ll still need to call an exterminator.

If you do find yourself with a pest problem, whether it’s moths in the pantry, roaches in the garage, termites in the basement, or mice in the attic, get in touch with Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control, Inc. today.

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If you have pests in your home, exterminating them may seem more important than figuring out how they got in. But to prevent future problems, you need to know where the pests come from and how they may have arrived in your house.

Sometimes, protecting against the most obvious means of pest infiltration isn’t enough because pests can find sneakier ways to get in. Knowing about these sneaky infiltration methods can help you prepare and keep pests out. Here are some of the top surprising, sneaky, or otherwise unexpected ways pests could infiltrate your home.

1. Through Screens

You may have heard the common advice to cover your attic vents with wire mesh to keep out pests. However, some insects may be able to slip right through if they are smaller than the gaps in the mesh.

For instance, 20-mesh screening is recommended for keeping out drywood termites. Screens with larger holes may not keep them out. Talk to your pest control expert about what size of wire mesh you need to use based on what types of insect pests are common in your area.

2. As Eggs

Did you know that food products can sometimes have pest eggs in them? For instance, pantry moths typically get into your home when you buy pantry staples that contain tiny moth eggs. The larvae then hatch out of these eggs and proceed to eat your grains, flours, cereals, and other pantry items.

However, your food isn’t the only thing these moths can eat; items such as pet food and bird seed may be fair game for them as well.

3. In Furniture or Flowers

Carpet beetles eat pollen during their adult phase. In fact, they may even act as a beneficial pollinator. However, they also lay eggs. If the beetle was on a plant that you brought indoors before it laid the eggs, these eggs will hatch inside your home. That’s bad news, because the larvae eat wool and other natural fibers.

The list of things a carpet beetle larvae can feed on includes things like feathers and furs as well as just wool. So each time you bring a bouquet of flowers into your home, check each flower for small beetles first.

Of course, carpet beetles may also hitch a ride on other items besides flowers. For instance, if you buy something made of natural fibers that currently has carpet beetle larvae on it, they could develop into adults inside your home and lay eggs on your other belongings.

4. Up From the Ground

Some types of termites can literally come up through the ground to infest your home. They may come up through the foundation itself, or they could tunnel up the sides of your home using mud tubes.

Mud tubes can be a relatively easy-to-spot giveaway, but termites coming up from the ground through your foundation may be much harder to spot, which is why you need professional termite inspections on a regular basis.

5. On Other Pests

You probably know that some pests can hitch a ride on other animals. For instance, fleas can infest your home after hitching a ride on your cat or dog. But sometimes insect pests will actually infest other pests. For instance, birds nesting in your ceilings or attic could support a large population of bird lice that then enter your living space while looking for their next meal.

Other insect pests that could infest larger pests (such as mice) include fleas, ticks, and even rodent mites or bird mites.

As you can see, pests can be very sneaky and you can often end up with an infestation through no fault of your own. You couldn’t have known whether a bag of flour contained moth eggs, for instance. So if you do have (or suspect you have) pests in your home, don’t be embarrassed; just call Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control, Inc., to take care of the problem.

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Pests are one of the forces you’ll want to protect against during storage, whether you store your belongings in an attic or in a professional storage facility. Rodent, bird, or insect pests can do a lot of damage to unprotected items.

The choice of containers you use in a storage situation can make a big difference. Here are some common types of storage containers and how they compare for pest prevention.

Plastic Bins

A plastic bin is typically stiff and solid, making it water-resistant and chew-resistant. Some plastic storage boxes even have a seal around the edge that make them watertight and airtight. This feature doesn’t only protect your items from flooding or leaks, but it can also keep pests from invading.

Another upside of plastic is that an airtight plastic container allows you to use mothballs. That’s because mothballs should only be used in an enclosed, airtight space. If the fumes are too diluted, they don’t affect moths, and if they can escape, they can harm people and pets.

If you have items that you’d like to protect from moths, or even items that have suffered from moth damage already, the potential for mothball use can make plastic containers even more ideal.

Plastic Bags

Plastic bags come in all sizes and shapes. For instance, heavy-duty trash bags are a quick way to temporarily pack clothes. These bags do have the benefit that they can fit oddly shaped items easily and can seal out water and dampness, which could otherwise attract pests such as cockroaches, silverfish, or centipedes.

However, trash bags may also rip easily, allowing insect pests to enter. Some pests may be able to chew through plastic bags, depending on the bags’ strength and thickness. You can obtain more heavy-duty plastic bags such as those used for under-bed storage, but they’ll still be more vulnerable to pest damage than a solid plastic box.

Cardboard Boxes

Cardboard boxes are commonly considered to have environmental benefits when compared to plastic boxes. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re the best choice for long-term storage or for protecting your items from pests.

Cockroaches love cardboard boxes for a number of reasons. They can use the boxes as a home and also a source of food. So even if you’re careful not to store anything that attracts pests, the container itself could do so. This is one reason why cardboard boxes are more appropriate for short-term uses such as moving or shipping rather than storage.

Canvas and Fabric Bags

Canvas and other types of fabric can be susceptible to rodents. But fabric storage bags can still be useful for specific situations. For instance, if you’re just looking to protect something from moths and you have other protections against rodents (such as traps), hanging those garments in a storage bag made of fabric can be the best choice to allow air circulation.

Air circulation can be crucial for some specialty garments, antique clothing, and similar extra valuable items. Check over your cloth garment bags to ensure they zip tightly and don’t have any holes that could admit moths.

These common types of storage containers all have pros and cons when it comes to protecting your items from damage. As you can see, plastic bags and canvas garment bags have their uses in specific situations. But in most other situations and for most types of materials, a simple sturdy plastic tote is likely to serve you well in your quest to store belongings safely.

Call Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control, Inc., today for more information about protecting your belongings from pests or to discuss exterminating pests from your home.

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