Top 10 Common Household Pests and How to Get Rid of Them for Good

No matter how clean your home is, pests always find a way to sneak in. From tiny ants marching through your kitchen to sneaky rodents in the attic, household pests can cause frustration, damage, and even health issues. The good news? With the right strategies, you can keep them away for good.

Here’s a look at the top 10 most common household pests and some practical tips on how to get rid of them effectively.

1. Ants

Ants are one of the most common pests in homes. They’re small, persistent, and often invade kitchens in search of food and water. Once they find a source, they leave behind a scent trail that leads others straight to it.

How to get rid of them:

• Clean up food crumbs and spills immediately.
  
• Store food in airtight containers.
  
• Seal entry points around doors and windows.
  
• Use natural deterrents like vinegar or lemon juice to wipe surfaces.
  

If the infestation grows, consider using bait stations to target the colony directly.

Contact Pasadena Pest Control.

2. Cockroaches

Cockroaches are every homeowner’s nightmare. They’re fast, reproduce quickly, and carry harmful bacteria that can contaminate food and surfaces.

How to get rid of them:

• Keep your kitchen spotless and remove food scraps nightly.
  
• Seal cracks and gaps around pipes, drains, and baseboards.
  
• Use cockroach baits and traps near problem areas.
  
• Call a pest control expert if you see them during the day — it may mean a large infestation.
  

3. Rodents (Mice and Rats)

Mice and rats are destructive pests that chew through wires, insulation, and stored goods. They also pose serious health risks through droppings and urine.

How to get rid of them:

• Store food properly and eliminate clutter.
  
• Seal entry holes larger than a quarter inch.
  
• Set traps along walls and in dark corners.
  
• Use peppermint oil as a natural repellent.
  

If you hear scratching at night, it’s time to act fast — rodents multiply quickly.

4. Termites

Termites are silent destroyers that feed on wood, often going unnoticed until they’ve caused significant structural damage.

How to get rid of them:

• Look for mud tubes and hollow-sounding wood.
  
• Keep moisture away from your foundation.
  
• Schedule annual termite inspections.
  
• Hire professional pest control to treat and protect your home.
  

DIY treatments rarely stop termite infestations completely.

5. Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are not just annoying; they can also carry diseases like dengue and malaria. They thrive in warm, damp environments.

How to get rid of them:

• Eliminate standing water around your home.
  
• Use mosquito repellents or citronella candles.
  
• Install window screens and use insect zappers.
  
• Treat outdoor areas with mosquito control sprays.
  

Regularly checking water sources like pots, drains, and birdbaths makes a big difference.

6. Spiders

While most spiders are harmless, some (like the black widow or brown recluse) can be dangerous. Even the harmless ones can be unsettling to see crawling across your walls.

How to get rid of them:

• Keep corners, basements, and storage areas clean.
  
• Remove webs as soon as you spot them.
  
• Seal cracks and gaps where they might enter.
  
• Use natural repellents like eucalyptus or peppermint oil.
  

7. Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are tiny but troublesome pests that hide in mattresses, furniture, and clothing. They feed on blood and leave itchy bites.

How to get rid of them:

• Wash bedding and clothes in hot water.
  
• Vacuum mattresses and carpets thoroughly.
  
• Seal cracks around beds and walls.
  
• Use bed bug mattress encasements.
  

Severe infestations usually require professional heat treatment.

8. Flies

Houseflies and fruit flies are not only annoying but also capable of spreading bacteria. They breed rapidly, especially in warm, humid conditions.

How to get rid of them:

• Keep your kitchen clean and garbage sealed.
  
• Use fly traps or vinegar-based bait.
  
• Install mesh screens on windows and doors.
  
• Empty trash regularly to prevent breeding sites.
  

9. Fleas

If you have pets, fleas can become a major issue. They bite humans and animals alike, causing itching and allergic reactions.

How to get rid of them:

• Bathe and treat your pets regularly with vet-approved flea treatments.
  
• Vacuum carpets and furniture daily.
  
• Wash pet bedding in hot water.
  
• Use flea sprays or powders to treat affected areas.
  

10. Silverfish

Silverfish are small, silvery insects that feed on paper, glue, and fabrics. They thrive in dark, damp areas like basements and bathrooms.

How to get rid of them:

• Reduce humidity with dehumidifiers.
  
• Store books and papers in dry areas.
  
• Seal cracks and crevices.
  
• Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in affected areas.