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The best way to deal with a rodent problem is to avoid it in the first place. One way to do that is to make your home smell uninviting to them. Here are some household products that can repel rodents. When using oils, try soaking a cotton ball in the stuff and leaving it in places rodents frequent:

• Peppermint oil

• Eucalyptus oil

• Cinnamon

• Vinegar

• Cedarwood 

• Cloves

• Garlic

• Chili oil/powder

• Cayenne pepper

Heat is the most effective instant killer of bed bugs. Exposing them to temperatures above 131 degrees Fahrenheit for over an hour can eliminate them. Methods like steam cleaners and using a dryer on high heat are effective for this. Other options that can kill bed bugs on contact include EPA-approved pesticides, bleach, disinfectant sprays with alcohol, diatomaceous earth, and hydrogen peroxide. While freezing can work, it is not an instant solution, as it can take several days at 0 degrees Fahrenheit to be effective. Keep in mind that many DIY treatments won't reach bed bugs hidden in cracks or behind walls. For severe infestations or the most effective results, it is best to hire a professional exterminator for a professional heat or chemical treatment.

Yes, crawl spaces can attract bugs, especially since moisture tends to build up in the space, and moisture attracts pests. A good way to prevent pest infestation in your crawl space is to install a vapor barrier—called crawl space encapsulation—on the interior to seal the space, along with a French drain or some other kind of foundation drainage system outside to keep runoff out of your crawl space. You can also seal foundation cracks and repair damages to cut off access to pests.

There are DIY methods and store-bought pesticides available for the public to use. However, these pesticides also come with a risk, and you need to follow the directions correctly and take precautionary measures to prevent exposure to these chemicals. These methods may be an option for small pest problems, but you should call in a pest control specialist for persistent pests and infestations.