Get matched with top pest control specialists in Tabor, IA

Roaches have a strong sense of smell and are repelled by a variety of potent aromas. Scents that can help deter them include citrus (such as lemon and orange), herbs like peppermint, mint, basil, thyme, and oregano, spices like bay leaves, cinnamon, clove, and garlic, as well as lavender, eucalyptus, citronella, tea tree oil, and vinegar.

You can use these scents in several ways to create an unwelcoming environment for roaches:

• Plants: Place mint or lavender plants in your home or garden.

• Powders and Leaves: Sprinkle garlic powder or place crushed bay leaves and citrus peels in high-risk areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entry points.

• Sprays: Create a diluted solution with scents like lemon or vinegar to spray in your home. These can also be used in cleaning products or as room fresheners.

• Essential Oils: While essential oils of these scents can be used, be cautious as they can be toxic to pets if inhaled.

It is important to note that while these smells can help keep roaches away, they typically do not kill them and may not be enough to drive out an existing infestation entirely. For best results, combine these scent-based deterrents with regular cleaning. Be sure to clean up all food spills, crumbs, and dirty dishes promptly, and keep trash cans covered with a tight-fitting lid to remove potential food sources.

Yes, humans carry fleas. Although fleas are primarily associated with dogs and cats, they are attracted to the warmth and carbon dioxide of mammals, including humans. The difference is that most fleas will only choose animals as their hosts. They may bite humans, but they don’t tend to stick around on humans for long. The one exception is the Pulex irritans, also called the human flea, which prefers human blood.

Stink bugs don't harm humans or their homes, but they can do a number on vegetable crops, especially in large numbers. According to the Journal of Integrated Pest Management, the brown marmorated stink bug, recognized as a globally invasive species, has cost millions in crop damage and is a nuisance to homeowners.

Yes. German cockroaches are masters at hiding. If you notice one cockroach, especially in daytime hours, it’s very likely that other roaches aren’t far behind, or that the problem is growing. You don’t even need to see roaches to have warning bells go off: Many homeowners discover roach problems by noticing specks of droppings on the floor or roach smells.