Pests are a part of everyday life. When you’re moving into a new place and you’re a proud condo owner for the first time (or just have a problem with pests), we’re happy to bring you all the tips and tricks you need. Now that you own a condo, the upkeep is largely your responsibility.
Fruit Flies
Fruit flies are the worst. They are tiny, annoying, and feel like they’re never going to go away even long after you’ve tossed the banana peel garbage. They are a scourge among insects and carry bacteria on them. Um, no thank you! Get rid of these fruit flies by ditching any food particles or pieces (cleaning the sink, throwing out trash/tossing foods in compost, keeping kitchen and fridge clean) and committing to organizing your life.
Barring that, fill a few cups with an inch of Apple Cider Vinegar, juice, or beer. You can leave open or poke a hole in plastic wrap. Mix a few dish soap drops in and wait. The soap breaks the surface tension, the flies drown, you remove the source of the problem, and you’re good to go.
Ants
Ants are also the worst. They leave chemical trackers so basically, once you get them, look out. Ants kill fleas and bed bugs, but they also eat your food and never leave. Place cinnamon around your perimeter to keep them out. Get rid of all trace food and clean your floors. If that doesn’t work, mix honey and water in cups and remove.
Rats and Rodents
These things really are horrible! You absolutely have to get rid of them at all costs. Spray peppermint essential oil at points of entry. Barring that, put peanut butter on a trap and you’ve got them. Excellent.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are pesky microscopic things that look scary when zoomed up on with a microscope. You’re unlikely to see them with the naked eye, but they’re there. Unless you rigidly clean your house every day, you’ve likely got a bunch of them. Steady vacuuming and changing your bedsheets should keep them in check. The people in your life with allergies will thank you!
Stink Bugs
The easiest way to get rid of stink bugs is to stop them before they start– always keep your screen on when opening your windows for some fresh air and you’ll bar them from ever getting in.
Spiders
Spiders are really not great to have in your home (except for the fact that they kill other bugs). But barring that, everyone is pretty much afraid of spiders. Plus, who wants spider bites? No one, that’s who. Spray your old friend peppermint oil by the doors and keep them out!
Wasps, Hornets, Bees
Never kill bees– the environment needs them! However, wasp and hornet nests can be tough to remove. Attempt to remove them yourself…. or call a professional. They will be able to handle it correctly without the risk.
Pests are no fun! Keep your condo clean this year by keeping the pests out. The more organic and DIY you can go, the better— chemicals affect human health as well. Ditch the toxic store bought stuff and try these tricks out instead.