Basements are one of the most taken-for-granted parts of the house. Most homeowners often ignore these until there is a problem, such as a water leak or bug infestation. Unfortunately, basements can quickly become cluttered and dirty if not taken care of, and this is often an inviting environment for bugs and other pests.
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Most Common Bugs Found in the Basements?
While you never want to find any bug in your home, some are more harmful than others. Here are some of the most common bugs that you might find in your basement and how to identify them:
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are one of the most commonly found pests in homes. They are attracted to dark, warm, and humid environments, which is often what basements provide. As a result, cockroaches can quickly enter your home through cracks and crevices in the foundation or walls. If you see cockroaches in your basement, it is essential to eliminate them as they can quickly multiply and become a severe problem.
Silverfish
Silverfish are small, wingless insects often found in moist and dark areas. These gray or silver insects are often attracted to basements because of the damp environment. Silverfish feast on organic materials, such as paper and fabric. If you see silverfish in your basement, remove any food sources they might be attracted to, such as stored boxes of cereal or other dry goods.
Spiders
Spiders are often found in basements because they are attracted to the insects that live there. While most spiders are not harmful to humans, some, such as the black widow spider, can be dangerous. If you see a spider in your basement, it is best to catch it and release it outdoors.
Mice
Mice and rats are another common pest that you often find in basements. They are attracted to the same things that cockroaches are – dark, warm, and humid environments. Mice can enter your home through small holes in the foundation or walls. Aside from an unpleasant smell, mouse droppings can pose a severe health risk. If you see mice in your basement, be sure to eliminate that right away.
Millipedes
Millipedes are commonly referred to as “thousand leggers.” They resemble earthworms but with many legs. They are brownish and approximately 3/4 to 1 inch long. Millipedes usually enter homes looking for shelter as it becomes too hot, dry, or wet due to heavy rain. The basement is a damp area, and this is where they often hide. Unlike other arthropods that live relatively short, millipede has a lifespan of 2 to 5 years.
Why Are Bugs Drawn to Basements?
There are a few reasons why bugs are often attracted to basements. As we mentioned earlier, basements provide a dark, warm, and humid environment – which is the perfect habitat for many pests. In addition, basements often contain food sources that bugs are attracted to, such as stored boxes of cereal or other dry goods. Basements are often cluttered, which provides hiding spots for bugs and makes it more challenging to spot them. Damp basements are also an inviting environment for mold and mildew, which can attract bugs.
How to Prevent Bugs from Invading Your Basement?
Now that we’ve discussed some of the most common bugs found in basements, let’s discuss how to prevent them from invading your home.
The first step is to keep your basement clean and clutter-free. Be sure to vacuum, dust regularly, and store food in sealed containers. In addition, you should repair any cracks or crevices in the foundation or walls, as this will help to prevent bugs from entering your home.
Another critical step is to control the humidity in your basement. You can do this by using a dehumidifier, which will help to keep the air dry and discourage bugs from moving in.
Finally, it would be best if you regularly inspect your basement for signs of bugs. If you see any, be sure to contact a pest control professional right away. By taking these steps, you can help to prevent bugs from becoming a problem in your home.
How to Get Rid of Bugs in Your Basement
If you’ve already got bugs in your basement, don’t panic. There are a few things you can do to get rid of them. The first step is to contact a pest control professional, who will be able to identify the type of bug and determine the best course of treatment.
Use vinegar water: Vinegar is a great natural remedy for getting rid of bugs. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spritz any areas that seem infested. The vinegar will kill the bugs on contact.
Deep Clean: Another way to get rid of bugs is too deep clean your basement. This will remove any food sources that the bugs are attracted to and any hiding spots they may have. Be sure to vacuum and dust thoroughly, and wash any linens or clothing that may be infested.
Set up Bait: If you’re dealing with mice or rats, setting up bait stations can be an effective way to get rid of the problem. Bait stations contain food with poison, which will kill the mice or rats that eat it. Be sure to place the bait stations in areas where you’ve seen the pests, and check them regularly to make sure they’re working.
Conclusion:
Since basements’ locations are usually at the lowest level of a house, they are more susceptible to infestation by bugs and pests. However, you can take a few steps to prevent this from happening. Keep your basement clean and clutter-free, repair cracks or crevices, and control the humidity levels. If you find yourself with a bug, calling professional help is the best step to take, as they will help you identify the problem and get rid of it quickly.
