Pest myths debunked: Dispelling common misconceptions about pests

From old wives' tales to quick fixes you can find online, myths about pests are almost as widespread as the pests themselves. Unfortunately, these misconceptions can sometimes leave you with more frustration and unwanted guests than what you started with.

Today, we’re separating fact from fiction to help you take control of your home and if it’s time to call in the professionals.

Myth 1: A clean home won’t ever have pests

The Truth: Even the tidiest homes can become a haven for pests.

While clutter and food crumbs can attract pests, weather changes, access to water, or even cracks in your home can bring pests inside.

Termites don’t care how clean your home is – they’re after your timber.

Ants? They’ll follow the smallest scent trail to find food, even if you’ve scrubbed the counters and washed the floors.

What can you do:

• Seal gaps around your doors and windows.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Regularly inspect your home and backyard for signs of pests.

Myth 2: DIY remedies are as good as professional treatments

The Truth: Some home remedies might offer temporary relief but rarely do they address the root of the problem.

Sprinkling coffee grounds around your garden to deter ants or using vinegar to repel roaches might work briefly, but these methods don’t tackle the infestation at its source. Store-bought sprays can even make the problem worse by scattering pests deeper into your home.

What you can do:
Call in the professionals. With the right tools and expertise, we can address infestations at their core, ensuring pests are gone for good.

Myth 3: Pests will die off in the winter

The Truth: Whilst this might be true if you live in the northern arctic, many pests here in Brisbane adapt to colder months by seeking shelter – often inside your home.

Cockroaches, rodents and spiders don’t take a holiday when temperatures drop. Instead, they cosy up in your walls, basements and ceilings. Some pests, like bed bugs, are totally unaffected by seasonal changes.

What you can do:

• Keep your home sealed up and insulated.
  Schedule a professional inspection to catch hidden winter visitors.

Myth 4: Cats and dogs will keep pests away

The Truth: While pets might deter some pests (rats and mice for example), they can also attract others.

Yes, your cat might pounce on the occasional mouse, but pet food bowls and crumbs can lure ants, cockroaches or rodents into your home. Worse – fleas and ticks can hitch a ride on your furry friends, leading to a whole new kind of infestation.

What you can do:

• Keep pet food sealed and stored away when not in use.
• Regularly check your pets for fleas and ticks.
• Give your pets regular flea and tick treatments

Myth 5: You can spot a pest problem easily

The Truth: Many of the infestations we see go unnoticed until the damage is severe.

Termites, for example, chew through wood silently and often stay hidden inside walls. Likewise, bed bugs can hide in mattresses or furniture, and rodents often nest in hard-to-reach areas. The visible signs – like droppings or damage – often appear late in the game.

What you can do:
Schedule regular pest inspections to catch problems early and prevent costly damage.

Myth 6: Over-the-counter solutions are safe and effective

The Truth: Many store-bought pest control products can be hazardous if not applied or used properly.

Overusing chemical sprays or bait traps can harm your health, family and pets. Worse, some pests – like cockroaches, can often develop resistance to common chemicals, meaning they won’t work nearly as well as you’d hoped for them to.

What you can do:
Consider putting your trust in a licensed, pest control company who uses safe, eco-friendly methods tailored to your needs.

Myth 7: Pests are just a nuisance and don’t pose any threat

The Truth: Pests can pose serious risks to your health and property.

Cockroaches spread bacteria. Rodents can chew through electrical wires, creating fire hazards. Termites cause billions of dollars in property damage annually. Ignoring a pest problem isn’t just inconvenient – it can be dangerous.

What you can do:
Act quickly at the first sign of any pests in your home or your backyard. Prompt action will often save you time, money and stress down the track.

With the correct information at your fingertips and the right team on your side, you can keep pests out of your house and enjoy your home to the fullest.