Spring is a wonderful time of year - the flowers are blooming, the weather is warming up, and the sun shines for a few extra minutes each day. But for many of us, spring also brings with it a dreaded allergy season.

While pollen, flowers, and grass often get the blame for spring allergies, there may be another culprit lurking in your home: pests. That's right—certain bugs and critters can trigger allergic reactions, making it more important than ever to take preventative action to keep them out of your home.

Let's dive into some common household pests that can cause allergies and how you can prevent them from invading your living space.

Common Allergen Bugs

Dust Mites: These microscopic pests thrive in warm, humid environments and feed on dead skin cells shed by humans and pets. Dust mite feces contain proteins that can trigger allergic reactions such as sneezing, itching, and respiratory issues.
Cockroaches: Cockroach allergens come from their saliva, feces, and shed skins. Exposure to these allergens can worsen asthma symptoms and cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Rodents: Mice and rats can carry allergens in their urine, saliva, and dander. These allergens can become airborne and trigger allergic reactions, especially in enclosed spaces like attics and basements.

Prevention Tips

Now that you know which pests to watch out for, here are some tips to keep them from infiltrating your home:

Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean and vacuum your home to remove dust, pet dander, and other allergens. Pay special attention to areas where pests may hide, such as behind appliances and under furniture.
Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, and openings that pests could use to enter. Seal any openings with caulk or weather stripping to keep pests out.
Reduce Humidity: Use dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity levels below 50%, as this can help discourage dust mites and mold growth.
Store Food Properly: Keep food stored in airtight containers and clean up spills promptly to avoid attracting pests like cockroaches and rodents.
Trim Greenery: Keep shrubs, trees, and other vegetation trimmed away from your home's exterior to prevent pests from using them as pathways to enter.
Dispose of Garbage Properly: Keep outdoor trash cans tightly sealed and dispose of garbage regularly to deter pests like flies and rodents.

If you have intense allergies, you may also want to consider hiring a professional pest control service to inspect your home for signs of infestation and do preventative treatments throughout the spring and summer seasons.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to pest control, so don't wait until you have a full-blown infestation to take action. Minimize the sneezing, itchy nose, and watery eyes this spring by adopting the tips above and contacting Pestmaster.

Our expert technicians will evaluate your property and personal needs to create a customized pest solution for you and your family.