Coming back to a pest-infested home is every Singaporean’s worst nightmare – which is why it’s important for homeowners to be aware of both preemptive measures and targeted solutions to evict unwanted guests and address pest issues before they escalate.
From warding off cockroaches and lizards to getting rid of ants and mosquitoes, here are 7 effective ways to keep pests out of your HDB home.
Cockroaches & lizards
Physical barriers against cockroaches & lizards
Sealing cracks using caulk, door sweep.
Image credit: @clearcutchoice, Family Handyman
Creating a robust defence against pests in your home starts with enacting physical barriers. Start by inspecting your home for any gaps or cracks in walls, floors, and pipes – if detected, seal these potential pest entryways with caulk or weatherstripping so that no sneaky invaders can slip in undetected.
Another way to fortify your home is by installing door sweeps on exterior doors, which serve as an additional deterrent against roaches looking to scuttle into your home through the cracks beneath your doors.
The equivalent barrier against lizards would be to install screen windows – a nifty solution that keeps lizards out while allowing fresh air in, so you don’t have to worry about compromising ventilation for a pest-free home.
Ultrasonic & natural repellents
Ultrasonic pest repellent device, bay leaves that repel cockroaches.
Image credit: Flipkart, Cockroach Control Toronto
Aside from physical barriers, investing in ultrasonic pest-repellent devices is another method of keeping cockroaches and lizards away – though their effectiveness varies.
Alternatively, homeowners may prefer to employ natural repellents such as bay leaves, which have a smell that roaches are particularly adverse to. Other natural methods involve using DIY cleaning solutions and essential oils, with the latter serving a dual purpose by not only warding off unwanted guests but also making your home smell nice.
Pest killers & traps
Image credit: The Home Depot, Shopee
For homes that have already been infiltrated by invaders, resorting to pest killers and traps may be an inevitability.
Homeowners can consider applying boric acid to hidden areas with potential roach nests – although caution should be exercised to keep the chemical substance out of reach from children and pets – or using diatomaceous earth as a natural, food-grade, and non-toxic, cockroach killer alternative.
To get rid of lizards, set up homemade or store-bought lizard traps with a sticky or glue-based surface, which effectively catches and immobilises any unwanted reptilian visitors.
Ants
Vinegar solution to deter ants
Image credit: M.R. Pest Control
Beyond cockroaches and lizards, ants are another prevalent household pest that often appears in swarms. A natural remedy lies in a vinegar solution – a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar, which can be sprayed along ant trails and entry points.
Additionally, addressing plumbing leaks, a common entry point for ants is another effective method of discouraging these tiny invaders.
Plant chemical ant bait
Image credit: @combatsingapore, Rentokil LinkedIn
To manage severe ant infestations, strategically planting chemical ant baits such as Combat Ant-Killing Bait or Golden Hammer Ant Gel at entry points can draw out larger groups of ants, facilitating the removal of the entire colony in one go.
If all else fails and other methods prove ineffective, consider seeking professional barrier and residual insecticide treatment from companies such as Rentokil.
Mosquitoes
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Finally, in response to the widespread occurrence of dengue – and the overall discomfort caused by deathly itchy mosquito bites – it’s imperative to target and eliminate the root cause of mosquito propagation: stagnant water.
Physical barriers against mosquitoes
Installing mosquito nets.
Image credit: @puipui_home
Implementing effective physical barriers is paramount in deterring mosquitoes from entering your living space. Installing mosquito nets or applying anti-mosquito film – which blocks harmful UV rays in addition to warding off insects – on windows and balcony doors prevents both mosquitoes and other pesky insects from invading your premises.
Electric mosquito-repellent devices
Image credit: @legosg2010, Selena Tay
Alternatively, consider using plug-in or battery-operated mosquito repellent devices such as Baygon Liquid Electric – an upgrade from short-lasting mosquito patches that provide an additional defence against bloodsucking insects.
Effective ways to keep pests out of your HDB
With clever physical barriers and deterrents ranging from natural remedies to harsher chemical solutions, these 7 tips offer diverse methods for fending off cockroaches, lizards, ants, and mosquitoes – ultimately keeping your HDB home a secure, pest-free zone.
For more HDB tips and tricks:
- 9 design tricks to make your HDB look bigger than it actually is
- 9 hacks that helped these homeowners pay <$60 for utilities over 8 months
- 12 smart reno design choices that will make cleaning your home 200% easier
- How to kid-proof your HDB without ruining the aesthetic
Cover image adapted from: @clearcutchoice, Shopee, The Home Depot
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