DIY Pest Prevention Tips for Homeowners in Wilmington, NC

Skyler Rader
Dec 27, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Jan 5

Understanding Common Household Pests

Before diving into prevention tips, it’s important to understand the common pests that might invade your home. These include:

Ants: Often seen marching in lines, ants can invade kitchens and undermine structural integrity.
Cockroaches: Known for their resilience, cockroaches can thrive in even the cleanest homes.
Rodents: Mice and rats may carry diseases and cause significant property damage.
Termites: These silent destroyers can compromise the structural integrity of your home.

Effective DIY Tips for Pest Prevention

1. Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and holes in walls, windows, and doors. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal these entry points where pests can sneak in.

2. Maintain Cleanliness

Keeping your living spaces clean is one of the most effective ways to deter pests. Regularly vacuum, wipe surfaces, and ensure food is stored in airtight containers. Don’t forget to clean behind appliances and furniture!

3. Proper Waste Management

Garbage can be a magnet for pests. Use tightly sealed bins and dispose of trash regularly. Clean spills and crumbs promptly to eliminate enticing food sources.

4. Landscape Maintenance

Trim shrubs, trees, and other vegetation away from the foundation of your home. Overgrown plants can serve as highways for pests to access your property.

5. Moisture Control

Pests like cockroaches thrive in damp conditions. Fix leaks, use dehumidifiers in humid areas, and ensure gutters are clear to prevent water accumulation.

6. Essential Oils and Natural Repellents

Utilize natural deterrents like peppermint oil, which is known to repel various insects. Spraying a mixture of water and essential oils around entry points can be a lovely, aromatic way to keep pests away.

7. Use Traps Wisely

Set traps for rodents or insects in high-traffic areas. Be sure to check them regularly and dispose of any catches appropriately.

When to Call the Professionals

While DIY methods can significantly reduce the risk of pest infestations, some issues may require professional intervention. Here’s why hiring experts like Better Pest Control is crucial:

Expert Knowledge: Pest control professionals possess the training and experience to identify pest types, assess the extent of the infestation, and implement the most effective solutions.
Targeted Treatments: Professionals use advanced techniques and products that are often not available to the general public, ensuring a more thorough approach to pest elimination.
Long-Term Prevention: Experts can provide tailored advice and long-term strategies to prevent future infestations, going beyond what most homeowners can achieve on their own.
Safety First: Professionals are trained to handle potentially hazardous chemicals and equipment, ensuring a safer environment for you and your family.

The Importance of Eco-Friendly Pest Control

At Better Pest Control, we prioritize eco-friendly pest management solutions. We believe that protecting your home should not come at the expense of your health or the environment. Our methods are designed to be effective while minimizing any negative impact on the ecosystem.

By choosing eco-friendly options, you can feel good about maintaining a safe space for your family and pets. We understand that you want to keep your home pest-free without compromising on safety.

Conclusion

A pest-free home is essential for your comfort and health. By following these DIY tips and employing proper pest prevention strategies, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of an infestation. However, for the best results and peace of mind, don’t hesitate to contact us at Better Pest Control. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing effective pest management solutions tailored to your needs.