5 Tips to Keep Ants Out This Summer

Tips to keep ants out this summer in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

Ants are any property owner’s worst nightmare. Not only are they simply a nuisance, they’re infamously difficult to get rid of. Infestations in the summertime spike as ants make their way indoors for food and shelter. To avoid the frustration of an ant problem this summer, there are a few things you can do to limit their access indoors. The experts at Russell’s Pest Control have years of experience controlling these pests and is here to share expert tips to keep ants out this summer.

Types of Ants in the Summer

Did you know there are more than 700 species of ants in the United States alone? For that reason, it is crucial to know which one you’re dealing with in order to properly prevent and control them. An infestation from any of these can be a major pain to deal with, making it important to know what you’re coming up against. The most common ants you will come across include:

How to Keep Summertime Ants Out

If you have had ants before, you know that they can suddenly appear seemingly out of nowhere! To avoid letting ants indoors, there are 5 things you can do to make your property less attractive and accessible to them. Our tips to keep ants out this summer include:

  1. Clean your home regularly. Sweep your floors regularly to get rid of crumbs. Ants are attracted to sugary food sources and a few crumbs will keep them coming back for more.
  2. Store all food items properly. Avoid leaving food out uncovered. Keep food in airtight containers or store them safely in cupboards and fridges.
  3. Seal gaps, cracks, and entry holes. Ants can crawl through the tiniest of cracks. Inspect your property and use caulk to seal any gaps, holes, or potential entry ways.
  4. Avoid excess moisture or water. Areas with standing water or leaks will attract ants quickly. Attend to broken pipes and clean up spills quickly.
  5. Trim back trees and vegetation. Plants close to your home can encourage ants to come in. Make sure tree branches, shrubs, and bushes are trimmed away from the perimeter!

Summertime Ants in Knoxville

Pest problems are common in our area during the summer ants. The last thing you have time to deal with is an ant infestation. If you’ve done everything you can to keep ants out and still are noticing the signs of an infestation, it’s time to call the experts at Russell’s. We are committed to providing you with ant-free living all year round.

Top Myths About Bed Bugs

Common myths about bed bugs in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

We all know that bed bugs are a dreaded pest problem. Not only is the thought of these bugs biting you at night disturbing, they are also difficult to get rid of without a professional pest control company. Because these are such a feared pest, there are a lot of theories and myths surrounding bed bugs. With it being Bed Bug Awareness Week.  it’s important to learn how to separate fact from fiction. In this blog post, we’ll investigate the top myths about bed bugs with help from the bed bug exterminators at Russell’s Pest Control.

Fictitious Bed Bug Facts

At one point or another, you’ve likely heard some pretty wild theories about bed bugs. These pests are definitely psychologically distressing, but they may not be as dangerous as you think. Here’s the top myths about bed bugs, debunked:

  • Bed bugs are attracted to messy or dirty homes.
    • As much as you want to blame a bed bug problem on this, it’s not true. Anyone can get bed bugs. Unsanitary conditions or messes will not make you more likely to get bugs.
  • Bed bugs only feed at night.
    • Bed bugs are active when their hosts are at rest. This usually means overnight, but they are able to adjust their schedule to fit yours!
  • Bed bugs are only found in your bedroom.
    • Bed bugs tend to congregate near areas where people rest. This includes sofas, chairs, cracks in the wall and other furniture items.
  • Bed bugs are too small to see with the naked eye.
    • Adult bed bugs are plenty big to see on your own. They are the size of an apple seed and often grouped together, making it easier to spot an infestation.
  • Bed bugs can jump and fly. 
    • Unlike fleas and ticks, bed bugs do not jump or fly. They have underdeveloped wings, and instead move from one spot to the other by crawling or latching onto a moving item.
  • Bed bugs latch or travel on people.
    • Although bed bugs are known to hitch a ride on your purse or suitcase, they do not attach to people as fleas or ticks do.
  • You can get rid of bed bugs with DIY methods.
    • At-home or DIY treatments for bed bugs are not a long-term solution. An aggressive approach from a pest control company is necessary for complete removal of the infestation.
  • Bed bugs transmit dangerous diseases.
    • A bed bug infestation may cause some anxiety and their bites may be itchy, but these pests do not transmit disease as other pests do.
  • Bed bugs can live a year without feeding.
    • While they definitely can survive months without a meal, they won’t make it through an entire year unless they are under the most optimal conditions.
  • You should get rid of your mattress and clothing if you have bed bugs.
    • No, you definitely should not. In fact, it’s actually dangerous to move your infested items–doing so can spread bed bugs into other areas!

What to Do About Your Bed Bug Problem

Bed bug problems need to be taken care of quickly–and by a professional. As soon as you notice the signs of bed bugs in your property, contact the experts at Russell’s. We have the years of experience needed to provide effective bed bug treatment that will leave you free of bed bugs for good!