PESTS

Browse By Tag

  • Gardening (82)
  • How To (69)
  • Lawn (68)
  • Choose (62)
  • Maintain (30)
  • Maintenance (29)
  • Healthy Home (26)
  • Landscaping (20)
  • Cleaning (19)
  • Safety (11)
  • Kitchen (11)
  • DIY (9)
  • Deck Patio & Porch (8)
  • Repair (8)
  • Sustainability (7)
Tag icon article
Birds in Your Dryer Vent? Here's How to Remove Them Safely and Humanely
What You Need to Know Signs of birds in a dryer vent include chirping sounds, debris hanging from the vent, birds fl...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Pest Control Cost in South Carolina?
Highlights The cost of pest control in South Carolina ranges between $130 and $157, while the average cost is $144. ...
Tag icon article
15 Natural Pest-Control Strategies for Your Yard and Garden
Sharing the planet with insects is a fact of life, especially when pleasant weather arrives. By late spring, all kind...
Tag icon article
Why Every Plant Parent Needs This Popular Plug-In Fly Trap
If you’re wondering what fly traps have to do with houseplants, consider yourself lucky. Since collecting a borderlin...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Clover Mites—and Why You Should Never Squish Them
Clover mites don’t bite, carry diseases, or destroy food stores like some other pests do, but these tiny red critters...
Tag icon article
11 Ways That Sugar Can Help Your Home—and Your Health
Sugar is more than just a sweetener; it’s a versatile household product in your kitchen. Beyond sugar’s typical role ...
Tag icon article
20 Seriously Surprising Uses for Ziploc Bags
It’s been nearly 60 years since the invention of the Ziploc plastic storage bag, and our freezers, fridges, and even ...
Tag icon article
The Best Spider Repellents to Keep Creepy Critters at Bay
In this article, we’re primarily focused on products that repel spiders rather than exterminate them. The aim here is...
Tag icon article
How to Keep Birds Off of Your Porch (Without Harming Them)
Birds sleeping on porches carry symbolic meanings of peace, protection, and good fortune—harmony with nature and tran...
Tag icon article
Drain Flies vs. Fruit Flies: Which Tiny Winged Pest Is Invading Your Home?
If the song “Shoo Fly, Don't Bother Me” is ringing in your ears, you may be dealing with a bothersome fly infestation...
Tag icon article
Rat vs. Mouse: How to Tell Which Rodent Pest You’re Dealing With
Mickey Mouse and Remy in Ratatouille might be adorable characters on the screen, but there is nothing entertaining ab...
Tag icon article
Generac Generators and Frigidaire Cooktops: 30 Recalls You Need to Know for Fall 2023
Staying on top of product recalls is essential for consumers to ensure that our families stay safe. The Consumer Prod...
Tag icon article
The Armadillo Is Breaching States It Has Never Been Seen in Before
The nine-banded armadillo is expanding its territory into parts of the country it has never been seen in before, taki...
Tag icon article
This U.S. City Tops Orkin's List of the 'Rattiest Cities' for the 9th Year in a Row
Pest control company Orkin has released its yearly list of the most rat-infested cities in the United States, and Chi...
Tag icon article
Do LED Lights Attract Bugs? What All Homeowners Should Know
Q: The incandescent bulb in my porch light burned out and I want to replace it with a more efficient LED, but I’m con...
Tag icon article
How Much Does a Rat Exterminator Cost?
Highlights The average rat exterminator cost is $377, with a range of $176 to $580 possible for some infestations. ...
Tag icon article
15 Handy Uses for Dryer Sheets Around the House
Few household products are as underrated as the dryer sheet: They're cheap, portable, and much more versatile around ...
Tag icon article
7 Invasive Species That Are Migrating With Climate Change
From noxious weeds to invading insects, species are considered invasive when they are introduced to an area and they ...
Tag icon article
Why Are There No Spiders in Cobwebs? The Mystery Behind the Messy Corner Creepers
File this one under T for “Today I Learned…. ” Despite emitting from the same arachnid derrière, spider webs and cobw...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Animal in Attic Removal Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to remove a wild animal from an attic ranges from $200 to $1,500. Some of the factors t...
Tag icon article
13 Fall Bugs That Are Invading Your Home—and What to Do About Them
Insects typically aren’t out to get you. Most bugs are simply looking for shelter from the cold, a source of food and...
Tag icon article
Solved! Why Are There Suddenly So Many Cockroaches in My House?
Q: I always try to keep my home clean to avoid pest problems, but yesterday I noticed a large group of roaches sudden...
Tag icon article
The Best Pest Control Companies in Tampa, Florida, of 2023
While pests are a problem for homeowners in cities throughout the country, they’re an even larger threat in Tampa, Fl...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Bat Removal Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to remove bats from a home is between $227 and $690, with a national average cost of $45...
Tag icon article
Aptive Is a Small Pest Control Company Generating Some Big Buzz
Choosing the right pest control company comes with its challenges: Finding a local provider that offers comprehensive...
Tag icon article
Solved! Why Are There Ants in My Bathroom, and How Do I Get Rid of Them?
Q: As I was getting out of the shower, I noticed a few small black ants crawling near the drain. Upon closer inspecti...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of No-See-Ums for Good in Just 8 Steps
When the weather gets warmer, no-see-ums can be found outdoors—and sometimes indoors, too. Despite being almost micro...
Tag icon article
Bug Battle? My Experience Testing the DynaTrap Insect Trap
When it comes to battling mosquitoes and other flying insects, finding an effective and reliable solution can be a da...
Tag icon article
This Spicy Condiment Can Keep Yellow Jacket Wasps Away
Spending time outside enjoying the warm weather is one of the many perks of summertime. Sadly, yellow jacket wasps ca...
Tag icon article
Here’s Why You Should Never Mow Over Patches of Dead Grass
If you’re mowing your yard and come upon a patch of dead grass, stop! It’s quite possible that a rabbit's nest is hid...
Tag icon article
The Best Pest Control Companies in Houston, Texas of 2023
The Houston, Texas area has its fair share of pests to deal with. Roaches, ants, scorpions, spiders, mosquitoes, and ...
Tag icon article
Don't Kill These 17 Beneficial Insects in Your Garden
While some insects, like aphids and grasshoppers, can wreak havoc on your yard, others can be a big help in the garde...
Tag icon article
Take Back Your Yard From Biting Insects With This Popular Bug Zapper
If the citronella candles and essential oils aren’t doing enough to drive away mosquitoes from your nocturnal backyar...
Tag icon article
15 DIY Solutions for a Pest-Free Home
Cohabitating with unwelcome critters is no one's idea of fun. Armed with a few basic tools and a bit of knowledge, ho...
Tag icon article
The Best Pest Control Companies in Arlington, Virginia of 2023
As in many parts of the country, ants, roaches, mice, termites, and other pests are a reality when it comes to living...
Tag icon article
No-See-Um Bites vs. Bed Bug Bites: 6 Ways to ID the Bug Behind the Sting
Most people have, at some point, discovered mysterious bites that leave red, itchy welts on their skin. The most comm...
Tag icon article
How to Keep Squirrels Out of Garden Beds and Potted Plants
There are more than 65 types of squirrels in the United States. They’re cute and playful, but, as fun as it may be to...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Lice
Did you recently get the dreaded call from your child’s school about an outbreak of head lice? Getting rid of lice ca...
Tag icon article
13 Time-Tested Tricks for a Bug-Free Backyard
Common garden pests like mosquitoes and ticks aren’t simply an itchy nuisance. According to the Centers for Disease C...
Tag icon article
New Report Reveals Mosquito Infestations Are the Worst in These 50 U.S. Cities
Orkin, one of the best pest control companies, has released its yearly assessment of the top mosquito cities in the U...
Tag icon article
How To Tell The Difference Between Grub Damage and Fungus Damage to a Lawn
Grub damage versus fungus problems can look similar, but there are a few ways to determine if the unsightly dead patc...
Tag icon article
The Best Pest Control Companies in Alexandria, Virginia of 2023
Alexandria residents are no strangers to creepy-crawlies. People living in this northern Virginia city will commonly ...
Tag icon article
Solved! Is Hiring for Pest Control Really Worth The Cost?
Q: I currently have a big ant problem in my home and am not sure how to handle it. Plenty of DIY products are availab...
Tag icon article
How Much Does a Mosquito Misting System Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to install a mosquito misting system is between $2,026 and $3,488, while the natio...
Tag icon article
9 Insects That May Be Those Little Black Bugs in The Kitchen—And How To Get Rid of Them
Q: Lately, I’ve noticed little black bugs in my kitchen, and they won’t go away. How do I get rid of them? Do I need ...
Tag icon article
4 Types of Water Bugs That Appear in Pools And What to Do About Them
Q: Every time I go outside to take a swim, I see tons of water bugs in my pool. What are they, and what attracts them...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Wasp Removal Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to remove wasps from a home falls between $100 and $1,300, with a national average of $3...
Tag icon article
12 of the Most Common Garden Pests—Including 8 of the Most Destructive Bugs
Beautiful buds, glossy leaves, and healthy robust vegetable plants are the pride of any gardener. But what do you do ...
Tag icon article
8 Insects That May Be The Small Black Flying Bugs in Your House (That Aren't Fruit Flies)
Q: I keep seeing small black flying bugs in my house but they’re not fruit flies. What type of bug could they be, and...
Tag icon article
What’s the Difference? Identifying Termite vs. Carpenter Ant Damage
When it comes to termite vs. carpenter ant damage, it may be difficult for many people to discern one from the other....
Tag icon article
Solved! What Does Termite Damage Look Like?
Q: Lately, my doors and windows are hard to open, and I’ve noticed small piles of wood around the house. What does te...
Tag icon article
How Much Does a Pest Inspection Cost?
Highlights A pest inspection typically costs between $0 and $400, with a national average cost of $133. The total c...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Yard Mole Removal Cost?
Highlights Yard mole removal typically costs between $100 and $550, with the national average cost at $400. A numbe...
Tag icon article
Solved! Does Diatomaceous Earth Actually Kill Bed Bugs?
Q: I recently made the unfortunate discovery that we have bed bugs. I keep seeing something called diatomaceous earth...
Tag icon article
10 Types of Ants Every Homeowner Should Know
Discovering ants inside the pantry or on a countertop can be frustrating and even leave homeowners feeling a bit sque...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes Naturally: Our 15 Best Tips
There are more than 200 types of mosquitoes living in the United States ready to ruin summer concerts, pool time, bar...
Tag icon article
Solved! Does Mulch Attract Termites?
Q: I want to use wood mulch in the flower beds in front of my home to suppress weeds, but I’ve heard that it might lu...
Tag icon article
Sunday Lawn's Popular Custom Lawn Plan is 30% Off for Memorial Day
Memorial Day is just around the corner, which means that it's prime time for spring and summer garden prep. And not t...
Tag icon article
17 Deer-Resistant Plants, Flowers, and Shrubs
It takes a lot of time, effort, and money into making your backyard beautiful, so it’s understandably devastating whe...
Tag icon article
These String Lights Claim to Prevent Bug Bites: See What Happened When I Tested Them
Nothing disrupts a relaxing evening outside like mosquitoes. Just like clockwork, when the sun goes down, the bugs co...
Tag icon article
The Best Mosquito Repellents for Patios of 2023
Enjoying the deck or patio shouldn’t include swatting mosquitoes away. Not only are they pesky, but they can transmit...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Pest Control Cost?
Highlights The average cost of pest control typically ranges between $200 and $600. The main factors that affect pe...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Does It Mean When You See Termite Droppings but No Termites?
Q: Recently I’ve noticed termite droppings but no termitesinside my house. Does this still mean I could have an infes...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Are the Long, Skinny Black Bugs in My House?
Q: I keep noticing these long, skinny black bugs around the house. I’m used to seeing the occasional spider, but I ha...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Skunk Removal Cost?
Highlights Skunk removal typically costs between $300 and $600, with homeowners across the country paying an average...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Squirrel Removal Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for squirrel removal is between $125 and $1,500, with the national average cost at...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes—and Keep Them From Coming Back
No matter where you live, it’s likely you’ll encounter mosquitoes when the temperatures rise. Mosquitoes tend to floc...
Tag icon article
10 Types of Beetles Every Homeowner Should Know
Do you have beetles invading your home or garden? If so, it's time to learn more about these bugs that look like cock...
Tag icon article
How to Remove a Tick Safely
Discovering a tick in one’s hair or stuck to another place on the body is distressing. Unfortunately, there are sever...
Tag icon article
The Best Pest Control Companies in Michigan of 2023
Similar to homes in other parts of the country, those in Michigan face threats from a host of unwanted guests, includ...
Tag icon article
How Much Does an Ant Exterminator Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for an ant exterminator is$80 to $500, with homeowners around the country paying a...
Tag icon article
The Best DIY Pest Control Subscription Services of 2023
While a professional pest control service may be the most effective way of keeping creepy crawlies out of one’s house...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Bee Removal Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to remove bees is between $0 and $2,000, with a national average cost of $450. The main...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Groundhog Removal Cost?
Highlights Groundhog removal typically costs between $150 and $200, and the national average groundhog removal cost ...
Tag icon article
Termite Damage vs. Wood Rot: How To Know What's Eating Your Home
Wood makes up the structural support of many homes, so it’s important that the wood stays strong and healthy. But thi...
Tag icon article
15 Plants to Grow for a Pest-Proof Yard
The great outdoors is sometimes decidedly less than great—when insects swarm, for example, or when your carefully ten...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Mosquito Control Cost?
Highlights The average price range for residential mosquito control treatments is between $350 and $500 per season. ...
Tag icon article
Orkin vs. Terminix: Which Pest Control Company Should You Choose in 2023?
When a sudden need for an exterminator arises, the very last thing most homeowners want to do is spend time researchi...
Tag icon article
20 Landscaping Mistakes That Make Home Buyers Walk the Other Way
If you’re selling your home or planning to sell it soon, you know how important it is to make sure that it looks tidy...
Tag icon article
7 Bat House Plans for DIY Mosquito Control
Bat populations are in decline, which is one reason homeowners should consider adding a bat house to their property. ...
Tag icon article
It's Pest Season: Save $50 on Terminix's Plans Before Pests Strike
The worst most annoying, destructive, and persistent pests like rodents, cockroaches, mosquitos, and termites are no ...
Tag icon article
The Best Pest Control Companies in Arizona of 2023
Nobody wants a pest infestation, but even the cleanest homes can have them—over 15,000 species of insects have been i...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Wildlife Removal Cost?
Highlights The typical price range for removing wildlife from a home is $191 to $576, with homeowners across the cou...
Tag icon article
9 Types of Ticks to Watch Out for This Year—and Which Ones Can Cause You the Most Harm
Finding a tick stuck on us or our pet is alarming since the tick could be carrying the pathogens that cause illnesses...
Tag icon article
How Much Does a Flea Exterminator Cost?
Highlights The typical price range to hire a flea exterminator is $75 to $400, with customers paying a national aver...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Brown Recluse Spiders
The brown recluse spider has a bad reputation for a reason: It has a venomous bite that can cause symptoms such as fe...
Tag icon article
The Best Pest Control Companies in Florida of 2023
One of the most frequent reasons given for moving to Florida is the beautiful weather. However, warm, humid climates ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Ground Bees in Your Yard in 5 Steps
As their name suggests, ground bees are insects that nest in the ground, as opposed to more social bees that nest in ...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Termite Damage Repair Cost?
Highlights Termite damage repair typically costs between $600 and $3,000, with homeowners paying an average of $1,80...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Yellow Jackets For Good
During the warmer months, many homeowners enjoy spending time outdoors. Although relaxing on a shaded deck with a goo...
Tag icon article
Got One of These 20 Pests Invading Your Home? This Company's Pros May Be Your Best Bet
Hiring the right company the first time is essential when it comes to pest control: Infestations can worsen quickly (...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Are Those Tiny Black Bugs in the Bathroom?
Q: For a while, I have been finding tiny black bugs in my bathroom sink. They don’t look like houseflies, gnats, or a...
Tag icon article
The Best Pest Control Software for Businesses of 2023
No one likes pests in their homes—that’s why pest control services exist. Homeowners rely on the best pest control co...
Tag icon article
7 Ways Rats Are Destroying Your Home, and What to Do About It
Many homeowners enjoy seeing the occasional wildlife on their property – until said wildlife infiltrates their home a...
Tag icon article
The Best Bug Sprays of 2023
Bug sprays are a convenient way to keep biting insects at bay. A quick application can last for hours, and make it a ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Sugar Ants: 5 Steps to Banish These Sugar-Loving Pests From Your Home
Humans aren’t the only ones who enjoy the sweet taste of sugar. Many people head into their kitchens only to be greet...
Tag icon article
Solved! 5 Early Signs of Bed Bugs to Never Ignore
Q: After coming back from a recent vacation, I’ve noticed some bites on my arms and legs. I’m worried that I could ha...
Tag icon article
Palmetto Bug vs. Cockroach: What’s the Difference?
If you’re curious about palmetto bug vs. cockroach differences, you’re not alone. In addition to how to kill palmetto...
Tag icon article
10 Tiny Bugs in Your House—And How to Get Rid of Them
Like all creatures, bugs have their rightful place on this earth, but most of us don't want that place to be in our h...
Tag icon article
Solved! Why Are Trees Painted White?
Q: Driving home from work the other day, I noticed several trees on my street painted white. Why paint tree trunks wh...
Tag icon article
A Bob Vila Pest-rospective of the Year's Worst Bugs
As has been the trend over the past few years, 2022 was anything but normal. Beyond family drama, illness, and politi...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Mole Crickets
If you live in the Southeastern United States, you might be dealing with a mole cricket problem. These pests (which a...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Fumigation Cost?
Highlights The national average cost to fumigate a house is $4,750, though the exact price can fall within a typical...
Tag icon article
10 Telltale Signs of Mice to Never Ignore
Q: Recently I’ve been finding small black pellets in the basement, and I hear scratching noises when I go down there....
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs in a Mattress in 5 Steps
On the list of household pests that homeowners dread the most, bed bugs rank fairly high. The reason? Bed bugs infilt...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Are Those Bugs That Look Like Termites in My House?
Q: I’ve seen some small bugs near the baseboards of my home, along with some small holes in the wood. I’m worried tha...
Tag icon article
The Best Cockroach Exterminators of 2023
One of the most frustrating experiences is when pests like roaches invade the home. Home is supposed to be a safe spa...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Roof Rats and Prevent Them From Coming Back
It might start with scuttling sounds coming from the attic or bite marks in cereal boxes, but if you have roof rats, ...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Does Bat Poop Look Like?
Q: I was bringing boxes down from the attic, and I noticed a pile of droppings on the floor. I think they look like m...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Cabbage Worms
Cabbage worms can pose a real threat to cruciferous vegetables in the garden. These velvety green caterpillars nibble...
Tag icon article
The Best Mouse Exterminators of 2023
Whether hunting for a food source or seeking shelter from the elements, mice often find their way into cottages, hous...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Grasshoppers Naturally
Whether you just spotted a grasshopper inside the house or have noticed a recent uptick in grasshopper damage in your...
Tag icon article
Need a Mice Exterminator? Know These Cost Considerations Before Hiring
Highlights The typical range for mice extermination costs is $176 to $579, with a national average of $377. The mos...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Attracts Mice, and How Do I Keep Mice Out of My House?
Q: I’ve seen signs of mouse activity around my home, but I’m not sure what attracts mice. How do I know what food att...
Tag icon article
How to Choose a Termite Company: 5 Considerations Before Hiring
Finding signs of termites in a home can understandably send homeowners spiraling. They may wonder how long they’ve ha...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Maggots Naturally
The presence of maggots is a dreaded sight for homeowners unlucky enough to have attracted them. These slimy white wo...
Tag icon article
The Best Termite Control Companies of March 2024
 A termite infestation is every homeowner’s nightmare. These small but mighty insects feed on wood and other dead pla...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Mice for Good in 16 Steps
A mouse infestation can be enough to make anyone skittish. Those pesky critters can carry a plethora of dangerous dis...
Tag icon article
12 Snake-Repellent Plants That Can Help Pest-Proof Your Garden
For anyone who's ever spotted a snake or snake nests in their yard, the feeling can be a bit unnerving. Though snakes...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Woodworms to Protect Your Outdoor Furniture
Woodworms are one of those common household pests that many have heard of, but most people know little about. In fact...
Tag icon article
The Worst Invasive Insects in Every State—and How to Deal With Them
There are many insects that can dine on your garden, lay waste to the structural integrity of your home, or even pose...
Tag icon article
Cricket vs. Grasshopper: Which Noisy Pest Is Invading Your Home or Garden?
Crickets and grasshoppers are commonly confused with one another. While the two insects are both members of the Ortho...
Tag icon article
11 Decoy Plants Guaranteed to Trick Garden Pests
Decoy plants are plants used to keep pests away from prized vegetables by luring hungry insects to their own leaves a...
Tag icon article
Thousands of Satisfied Customers Can’t Lie: The Most Persistent Pests Are No Match for Terminix
It would be difficult to find a person who welcomes pests into their home with open arms: When left unchecked, pests ...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Hornet Nest Removal Cost?
Typical Range: $100 to $1,300 National Average: $375Discovering a hornet nest can be unnerving. Some signs of a ne...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Does a Dead Mouse Smell Like, and Does It Mean an Infestation?
Q: Recently, there has been a strange smell coming from one area in our home. It’s rancid, almost like rotten cabbage...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Bees (Without Harming Them)
Many homeowners deal with various types of bees swarming their homes at one point or another. Whether they’re ground ...
Tag icon article
The Best Raccoon Baits
Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores, eating almost anything they get their paws on. However, like many animals, they...
Tag icon article
The Best Mosquito Control Services of 2023
When all a homeowner wants to do is relax in their backyard, but mosquitoes won’t stop buzzing or biting and a citron...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Asian Beetles
Have you started noticing orange ladybugs congregating around windows in your home or swarming in the attic? These ar...
Tag icon article
How to Tackle Bird Nest Removal in 6 Steps
Can you move a bird’s nest? Well, the answer is not as simple as you may think. The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service h...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Cucumber Beetles
If your vining vegetables are crawling with striped or spotted beetles, chances are that they aren’t ladybugs but the...
Tag icon article
The Best Vole Repellents
Voles—also known as meadow mice—are small rodents that tunnel underground and can wreak havoc in yards and gardens if...
Tag icon article
The Best Dog Repellents
Dogs bring endless joy to our lives, but they can also be menaces. Whether it’s because they’re marking furniture, tr...
Tag icon article
The Best Cat Repellents to Deter Your Feline Frenemies
Whether you’re trying to prevent your pets from scratching that new couch or keep neighborhood cats out of your flowe...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Starlings Effectively and Humanely
The starling bird is an invasive, sometimes aggressive species. These birds can wreak havoc on your yard, drive away ...
Tag icon article
Gopher vs. Groundhog: Which Burrowing Critter Is Invading Your Lawn and Garden?
You might be wondering what animal is digging holes in your yard, or perhaps you even caught a glimpse of the animal ...
Tag icon article
New Study Indicates That These Are Mosquitoes’ Favorite Colors
Mosquitoes are an undeniable nuisance, and mosquito bites also can be dangerous by spreading diseases like malaria, y...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Do Termite Droppings Look Like, and Are They a Sign of an Infestation?
Q: I’m concerned my house has termites. How can I tell if what I found are termite droppings? Is it possible there ar...
Tag icon article
The Best Moth Repellents
While moths aren’t a dangerous creepy-crawly to find in a home, they can be destructive, so it’s worth preventing or ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Lizards Quickly and Humanely
Lizards might not come to mind when homeowners are thinking of common household pests, but they’re certainly creature...
Tag icon article
Help! What Are the Small, Tiny Brown Bugs in My House, and What Can I Do About Them?
What You Need to Know In addition to seeing bugs themselves, other signs of a tiny brown bug infestation include ins...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Are the Tiny Black Bugs in My House Near the Window?
Q: We have been opening the windows in our home a lot more, and that’s how I recently noticed tiny black bugs in my h...
Tag icon article
The Best Bed Bug Exterminators of 2023
Bed bugs are an unpleasant home pest that can contaminate mattresses, sheets, couches, and chairs and cause itchy and...
Tag icon article
10 Smart Solutions for Keeping Animals Out of the Garden Without Harming Them
If your garden is your pride and joy, it can be exceedingly frustrating when animals nibble on your plants or dig aro...
Tag icon article
3 Surefire Ways to Attract Dragonflies to Your Yard for Natural Mosquito Control
Dragonflies and damselflies are known for their colorful appearances—but they aren't just pretty to look at. They're ...
Tag icon article
Plants That Repel Mosquitoes: 18 Picks for a Bug-Free Backyard
Mosquitoes are a total buzzkill when it comes to outdoor activities. While numerous sprays, bracelets, candles, bug z...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Does Coyote Poop Look Like?
Q: I’ve heard some howling at night, and my neighbor has spotted a few coyotes at the end of our street. I’ve noticed...
Tag icon article
11 Pests That Pose a Threat to Your Pets
Opening your home and your heart to a special pet—be your buddy of the feline or canine persuasion, or an animal more...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for May
May is a month worth celebrating. As the days become warmer and sunnier, seasonal to-dos both inside and outside the ...
Tag icon article
The Best Stink Bug Repellents
Ugh! The aptly named stink bugs (any of several insects in the pentatomidae family) won’t do damage to a home, but wh...
Tag icon article
8 Planting Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Garden Before it Even Gets Going
Many gardening errors can be blamed on impatience, as we often endeavor to make our plants bear fruit (or flowers) as...
Tag icon article
Rattlesnakes Around Your Home? Here's How to Get Rid of Them—And Keep Them Out
Snakes give many people the creeps, but spotting a garter or corn snake in the backyard probably isn’t cause for conc...
Tag icon article
Not-So-Subtle Signs Raccoons Live In Your Attic—And What to Do About Them
Q: Something is moving around in my attic, and I think it may be a raccoon. How can I identify my unwelcome guest, an...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in Kitchen Cabinets
Finding cockroaches in the kitchen can be a nightmare—especially when they’ve made it into your cabinets and pantry. ...
Tag icon article
What Animal Is Digging Holes in My Yard? 9 Types of Bothersome Burrowers
Q: I keep finding mysterious holes all over my lawn. How do I determine what type of animal is digging holes in my ya...
Tag icon article
10 Ways Gardening May Be Making You Sick—and How to Protect Yourself
A Michigan State University article notes that “moderate-intensity level activity” such as gardening practiced for 2½...
Tag icon article
How to Make a DIY Fly Trap
When warm weather rolls around, so does an annoying houseguest: flies. Houseflies are a nuisance at best and a vehicl...
Tag icon article
The 4 Best Wildlife Removal Services of 2024
Wild animals regularly make their way into residential attics, basements, or yards. This raises the concern of damage...
Tag icon article
The Best Home Services of 2024
Investing in high-quality home services is an important way for customers to take care of their properties. There are...
Tag icon article
The Best Skunk Repellents of 2023
Although skunks may be a less common nuisance to homeowners than other pests, when they do come calling, they bring w...
Tag icon article
Try Scents to Send Pests Packing From Your Garden
As a gardener, you know how frustrating it is to put hours into your plot only to see it ravaged by pests. Every gard...
Tag icon article
Can Smart Home Technology Save Your Yard From Mosquitoes?
Nothing puts a damper on an outdoor meal or gathering like a swarm of mosquitoes—and they’re more than just a nuisanc...
Tag icon slideshow
30 Things in Your House That Are Attracting Bugs and Rodents
Behind every pest problem, there's a cause. Learn some of the factors that may be responsible for your infestation, and how to keep pests from parading into your ...
Tag icon article
The Best Pest Control Companies of March 2024
Pest control is a significant issue for many homeowners. According to census data, millions of homeowners have claime...
Tag icon article
12 Rabbit-Resistant Plants for Your Home Landscape
If your garden has shown excessive rabbit damage in recent years, it might be because the critters are growing in num...
Tag icon article
How to Keep Bees Away From Hummingbird Feeders Without Harming Them
There’s an abundance of information available about how to attract hummingbirds to your yard and feeders, but informa...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Pigeons Safely, Humanely, and Permanently
While pigeons are well known for living in cities, they’ll find their habitats anywhere. And whether you have an outd...
Tag icon article
The Best Squirrel Traps
People and squirrels usually live in peace, with squirrels minding their business in the trees while we go about the ...
Tag icon article
Why Do My Neighbors Have a Tented House?
Q: Driving home from work the other day, I noticed a huge tent completely covering a house in our neighborhood. What’...
Tag icon article
How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?
Highlights The typical range for termite inspection costs is $0 to $400, with a national average of $133. The most ...
Tag icon article
The Best Wasp Traps of 2023
While wasps can be a helpful insect to have in the yard—eliminating grubs and other pests that can feast on your land...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Attracts Bed Bugs?
Q: I’m about to move into a new apartment, and I’m concerned about bed bugs. I heard that they can hitch a ride on mo...
Tag icon article
Solved! I Have Bites—But No Signs of Bugs in My Home. What's Happening?
Q: I have itchy, red bites but no signs of bugs in my home. Honestly, I’m not sure if they’re a rash or bites. How ca...
Tag icon article
The Best Steamers for Bed Bugs of 2023
Dealing with bed bugs can be incredibly stressful, but with some patience and a good plan, you can be rid of these bl...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Carnivorous Hammerhead Worms (Hint: You Definitely Shouldn’t Cut Them Into Pieces)
Thanks to the half-moon shape of their heads, hammerhead worms are known by many names, including hammerhead flatworm...
Tag icon article
The Best Lizard Repellents
While furry rodent invaders can strike pretty much anywhere, people living in warmer climates face another kind of th...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Are These Bugs That Look Like Cockroaches in My Home?
Q: I’ve recently come across small, brown bugs that look like cockroaches in my home. What do roaches look like? Coul...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Are These Bugs That Look Like Bed Bugs in My Home?
Q: I recently noticed bugs that look like bed bugs in my home, and I’m concerned about an infestation. What do bed bu...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Scale on Plants
Scale on your indoor plants can appear seemingly out of nowhere, but these little insects can come from several sourc...
Tag icon article
10 Types of Moths Every Homeowner Should Know
Moths present something of a mystery. Unlike their lepidopteran kin the butterfly, most moths are nocturnal. We typic...
Tag icon article
Solved! How Do You Get Bed Bugs In Your Home?
Q. I think this rash on my skin might be bed bug bites. I have an exterminator coming, but I’m worried about any bed ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Geese
Canada geese are fascinating birds to watch at a lake or pond. They have a wingspan of up to 6 feet and may weigh as ...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Does Raccoon Poop Look Like?
Q: I recently spotted feces in my yard that doesn’t look like it came from a dog or cat. I suspect that it’s raccoon ...
Tag icon article
How to Identify Snake Holes in the Yard, and What to Do About Them
Q: While working outside, I noticed holes in the grass, and I’m concerned there may be snakes inside them. Do snakes ...
Tag icon article
7 Types of Squirrels Everyone with a Backyard Should Know
A squirrel is a squirrel, right? Think again. More than 65 different types of squirrels live in the United States. Th...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Rats
Oh, rats, the dreaded rodent infestation. These pesky creatures are tenacious when they’ve found a new place to nest....
Tag icon article
Help! What Are These Tiny White Bugs in My House?
Q: I just noticed a bunch of tiny white bugs inside my home. How can I tell what kind of bugs they are, and how can I...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Are These Tiny Red Bugs In My Home?
Q: Help—I found lots of small red bugs in my home! How can I get rid of them and keep my home free of these mysteriou...
Tag icon article
What’s the Difference? Hornet vs. Wasp
From a young age, most children are taught to shy away from contact with hornets or wasps. Certainly, it’s wise advic...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Booklice
Books can be used in several ways in the home, sometimes as decor on a bookshelf or as reference materials in a libra...
Tag icon article
Solved! How to Keep Squirrels Away From Pumpkins
Q: Every year, we decorate our front porch and walkway with carved jack-o’-lanterns. Last year, squirrels invaded and...
Tag icon article
When is Tick Season Starting? Probably Sooner Than You Think
Q: After a friend got infected with Lyme disease from a tick bite a few years ago, I’ve been worried about getting ti...
Tag icon article
If You See One Mouse, How Many Do You Have?
Q: While my family and I were on vacation, our living room security camera caught a mouse scurrying over the couch. N...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Pests That Might Be Living in Your Garage
Are there creepy-crawlies living in your garage’s dark corners? Here's how to identify the pests that are invading your space, and how to get rid of them.
Tag icon article
Don't Ever Ignore These 6 Signs of Carpenter Ants in the House—Here's Why
Q: I’m noticing some damage to the wood in my home but I’m not sure whether it’s caused by carpenter ants, termites, ...
Tag icon article
What Attracts Cockroaches? Ways You're Inviting Cockroaches Into Your Home
Q: I’ve been noticing a few cockroaches throughout my home lately. What attracts cockroaches, and how can I stop my h...
Tag icon article
What Attracts Spiders? How You're Inviting Spiders Into Your Home—And What To Do About It
Q: Help—I found spiders in my home! What attracts spiders so I can prevent them from returning?A: While many spiders ...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Is the Best Way to Prevent Pest Infestation?
Q: Ants, spiders, and bugs, oh my! Every year, I seem to struggle to keep insects out of my house and garage. What is...
Tag icon article
How to Kill Fleas in Carpets and Area Rugs
Fleas are invasive, bloodsucking pests that, in addition to causing itchy sores on pets and people, can carry pathoge...
Tag icon article
Solved! How to Keep Ants Out of Hummingbird Feeders
Q: My wife and I recently purchased a hummingbird feeder and hung it from a hook on our deck so we could watch the bi...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats: 4 Remedies That Work
Do tiny insects fly up into your face every time you water your houseplants? Then you’ll want to know how to get rid ...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Thrips
Many garden pests are easy to spot, but thrips often evade detection until they’ve completely taken over. This is due...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Plants That Repel Ants
If ants, ants, and even more ants are making you rant, try a new slant with the following eight plants.
Tag icon slideshow
15 Plants That Attract Dragonflies
Beckon these fanciful flyers to your outdoor space for major mosquito control.
Tag icon article
Termites Vs. Ants: 8 Ways to Tell Them Apart
Although they share specific characteristics, termites and ants are two different types of insects. They each present...
Tag icon article
6 Signs of Structural Damage You Should Never Ignore
Owning a home comes with some inevitable responsibilities, including maintaining and repairing problems before they w...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Kissing Bugs
Don’t be fooled by the seemingly harmless name: Kissing bugs, which are a specific type of assassin bug, carry diseas...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Armyworms
An armyworm infestation can wreak havoc on your yard. These caterpillars have a reputation as destructive garden pest...
Tag icon article
House Mouse vs. Deer Mouse: What's the Difference?
House mice or deer mice can quickly infest a home, particularly during fall or winter when they’re looking for a warm...
Tag icon article
Solved! Does Bleach Kill Bed Bugs?
Q: I have a bed bug infestation, and I’d like to take care of it quickly at home. Does bleach kill bed bugs?A: For ho...
Tag icon article
The Best Tick Repellents to Keep You Safe From Bites
Ticks are insects found all over the United States that can be dangerous to your family and pets. That’s because tick...
Tag icon article
The Best Rabbit Repellents of 2023
Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail may be awfully cute, but they also wreak havoc on the garden, nibbling away at vegetabl...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Are Mold Mites?
Q: A neighbor told me they found mold containing mold mites in their home. What are mold mites, and are they dangerou...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Your Plants' Yellow Leaves Mean, and How to Fix Them
Q: I purchased my first houseplant a few months ago, and things were going great. But recently its leaves have starte...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Are Signs of Termites?
Q: I’ve noticed some odd insect activity in and around my home, as well as some soil tunneling near wood features out...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Coyotes
Due to their dwindling habitats, coyotes are venturing into neighborhoods and yards in search of food and water. For ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Whiteflies on Plants
The first sign of a budding whitefly infestation might be a host of tiny white flying insects rising from a plant whe...
Tag icon article
The Best Gnat Traps
Though they don’t typically bite or act as vectors of disease, gnats can be a nuisance when they invade a home or gar...
Tag icon article
What’s the Difference? Carpenter Bee vs. Bumblebee
They’re both somewhat fuzzy, they are both very buzzy, and they are both members of the Apidae family, which includes...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Crane Flies
Crane flies look like large mosquitoes. They can have a 2. 5-inch wingspan, and they are often yellow, brown, red, or...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Armadillos
For homeowners living in the American Southwest, armadillos can be annoying pests with potentially devastating effect...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Hornets Safely and Effectively
Hornets are a vital part of any garden ecosystem, but that doesn’t mean they are welcome buzzing around the patio or ...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Bed Bug Treatment Cost?
Highlights The typical range for bed bug treatment cost is $300 to $5,000, with a national average of $1,750. Bed b...
Tag icon article
How Much Does an Exterminator Cost?
Highlights The typical range for exterminator costs is from $111 to $261, with a national average of $176. The main...
Tag icon article
The Best Garage Door Screens of 2023
For some, a garage is simply a place to store yard equipment, cars, and the family’s fleet of bikes; but for many, it...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Do Termites Look Like?
Q: I’m noticing some insects that look like ants in my home. However, they have different characteristics and I’m won...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Foxes
Foxes are stealthy, opportunistic hunters who can be the bane of farmers and suburban homeowners. Getting rid of foxe...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Bed Bugs
Among all types of insect infestations, bed bugs are among the most feared for homeowners. These tiny insects like to...
Tag icon article
7 Important Things to Know About Your Squirrel Feeder
When it comes to daring hijinks, astounding feats of agility, and sheer persistence, it’s hard to beat your average b...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Attracts Ants to Your Home
Q: It seems like I’m always battling infestations of ants, especially in my kitchen, bathroom, and garden. What attra...
Tag icon article
The Best Tick Sprays for Yards
Tick bites spread dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Once they attach themselv...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Handy Household Uses for Diatomaceous Earth
This naturally-occurring, affordable powder has a plethora of practical, eco-friendly uses.
Tag icon slideshow
8 Stinging Caterpillars All Home Gardeners Should Be Aware Of
Most caterpillars are harmless, but there are a few that require caution. These caterpillars have stings and pokes you’d rather avoid.
Tag icon article
The Surprising Benefit of Opossums All Homeowners Should Know About
The opossum needs a new publicist. This nocturnal animal—America’s only marsupial—is much maligned, but why? Is it th...
Tag icon article
How Much Does Termite Treatment Cost?
Highlights The typical range for termite treatment costs is $229 to $967, with many homeowners paying a national ave...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Frogs
Frogs are exciting and beneficial creatures to have in your yard—in moderation. The loud croaking that might draw a l...
Tag icon article
What’s the Difference? Possum vs. Opossum
People easily confuse possums and opossums. These small marsupials have names so similar that they’re often used inte...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Termites
Termite infestations can be a real problem for homeowners, with some causing significant, lasting damage. These pests...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Scorpions
An encounter with a scorpion can be frightening. By and large, scorpions have no interest in humans and only attack w...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Pill Bugs
Pill bugs, or roly-poly bugs, are found in gardens across the country. They get their “roly-poly” moniker from the ba...
Tag icon article
Solved! Why Are There So Many Spiders in My House?
Q: I keep finding spiders all over my house, and I’m not sure how they’re getting in. Why are there so many spiders i...
Tag icon article
The Best Natural Bug Spray to Stay Bite-Free
Bug sprays that use DEET might be the most effective means of preventing mosquitoes and other pests from biting, but ...
Tag icon article
The Best Mosquito Yard Sprays and Foggers
While you may want your yard to be a tranquil place for kids or pets to play while you prepare meals on the grill or ...
Tag icon article
The Best Rat Repellents to Keep Your Home Rodent-Free
Piles of small rat droppings, scratching noises in the walls, tiny footprints on a dusty shelf, and holes chewed thro...
Tag icon article
The Dos and Don'ts of Using Expanding Foam Insulation Around the House
Insulating expanding foam sealant makes quick work of reducing sound transfer, stabilizing a wobbly showerhead, or ev...
Tag icon article
The 2024 Cicada Co-Emergence: What You Need to Know
Headlines abound about the 2024 periodical cicada emergence. It is true that the 13-year Brood XIX, the largest named...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Chiggers in Your Yard
Getting rid of chiggers is easier when you know more about the creepy-crawly buggers and how they behave, as there ar...
Tag icon article
How to Make a Carpenter Bee Trap
Bees are wonderful insects that help create healthy, abundant gardens. What’s not so wonderful is when carpenter bees...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Possums or Opossums in Your Home or Yard
Possums and opossums, while both marsupials, are different animals. While opossums (with an “o”) are native to North ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Groundhogs Effectively and Humanely
When people think of groundhogs, they may picture Punxsutawney Phil or think of the fascinating history of Groundhog ...
Tag icon article
Tick vs. Bed Bug: How to Tell the Difference Between These Notorious Pests
In the case of ticks and bed bugs, there is one thing they share in common—causing disgust. Just the thought of eithe...
Tag icon article
The Best Fly Repellents to Enjoy Your Outdoor Space Without Pests
There are few moments more enjoyable than sipping a cup of coffee outside in the morning sun or relaxing under the st...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Earwigs
It’s almost impossible to imagine what Earth looked like 208 million years ago. For one thing, humans weren’t even a ...
Tag icon article
The Best Slug Killers
Slugs are great for cleaning up dead garden debris and providing nitrogen-rich fertilizer that can help a garden thri...
Tag icon article
The Best Carpenter Bee Traps of 2023
Carpenter bees are relatively peaceful insects that aid in vegetation pollination and rarely attack humans. This is m...
Tag icon article
The Best Mole Traps for Effective Pest Control
Your yard and garden should be a refuge from the hectic day-to-day grind—a place where you can sit back and relax, gr...
Tag icon article
9 Ways to Rid Your Garden of Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles might be harmless to humans but that doesn’t mean you want them around. This invasive insect feeds o...
Tag icon article
What to Do If a Bird Flies into Your House
Cracking the windows is an effective way to air out your house when the weather is nice—but an open window can also b...
Tag icon article
Vole vs. Mole: How to Tell Which Pest is Tunneling Through Your Yard and Garden
Here’s a riddle: What’s nearly blind, eats insects, and can be found in both your backyard and the local arcade? If y...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Crickets
The chirping of crickets may be a pleasant sound of summer, but these insects can become a real nuisance, especially ...
Tag icon article
The Best Carpenter Ant Killers of 2023
Although many ant varieties can cause problems in a home, few are as potentially damaging as the carpenter ant. This ...
Tag icon article
The Best Scorpion Killers of 2023
Across the country, many people contend with common pests such as mice, roaches, and ants, but those who live in hot ...
Tag icon article
Spotted Lanternfly Eggs Are Hatching Soon—Here’s What You Should Do
First detected in the United States in 2014, the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has made its way from Pennsy...
Tag icon article
The Best Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders Tested in 2023
Bird feeders provide entertainment for bird-watchers and other nature enthusiasts, but unwanted guests such as squirr...
Tag icon article
What Are Assassin Bugs, and Do I Want Them in My Garden?
The insect realm is rife with creepy-crawlies, be they smelly stink bugs, sneaky weevils, or simply slimy cockroaches...
Tag icon article
The Best Flea Trap to Keep Your Home Pest Free
It's heartbreaking to watch your pets itch and scratch all day when they are infested with fleas. What’s even worse i...
Tag icon article
The Best Insect Fogger to Keep Pests Away
No matter how many locks there are on your doors and windows, there’s still a chance tiny invaders are sneaking into ...
Tag icon article
The Best Expanding Foams of 2023
Expanding foam is a flexible product with a wide range of applications, including waterproofing, fireproofing, and in...
Tag icon article
The Best Indoor Bug Zappers
No one likes sharing their home with bugs, so when flies, moths, and other winged pests make their way inside, you wa...
Tag icon article
The 5 Best Flea Foggers To Rid Your Home of Fleas
A flea fogger is a flea treatment that uses many active ingredients to create a lethal pesticide for the control of f...
Tag icon article
The Best Fire Ant Killers of 2023
Like other creepy crawlies, fire ants can wreak havoc on a yard and home. But unlike merely annoying insects, fire an...
Tag icon article
The Best Bed Bug Traps
Itchy and painful welts on your skin; brown stains on the sheets; a musty smell in the bedroom—these warning signs co...
Tag icon article
The One Drawback of PEX Pipe Even Plumbers Didn't See Coming
For both new construction and remodeling projects, installing a cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) water-supply system i...
Tag icon article
The Best Bird Deterrents
At the park, on a walking trail, and even in your yard, birdwatching is a fascinating hobby. However, you may not wan...
Tag icon article
The Best Fly Swatters for DIY Pest Control
A version of the fly swatter may be as ancient as the fly itself. Since the beginning of time, humans have been insti...
Tag icon article
The Best Fruit Fly Traps for DIY Pest Control
Fruit flies are small, irritating insects that are attracted to fruits, as indicated by their name, but also vegetabl...
Tag icon slideshow
Pests That Might Be Lurking in Your Christmas Tree—and How to Get Rid of Them
You may not be the only one admiring your beautiful tree. Unwanted visitors may have scoped it out and settled in, and it’s time to tell them to bug off!
Tag icon article
The Best Citronella Candles
Citronella candles add elegance to your patio or yard and protect you from insects. This plant extract masks the huma...
Tag icon article
The Best Insecticides of 2023
Indoor insects can pose problems throughout the year. There could be insects living in the walls and behind and under...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Pest-Control Myths You Shouldn’t Believe
It’s time to disprove once and for all some of the most commonly held misconceptions about dealing with bugs, rodents, and other unwanted critters.
Tag icon article
The Best Flea Sprays
Whether you’re finding fleas on your pet, in your yard, or all of the above, you may need a quality flea treatment th...
Tag icon article
The Best Deer Repellents
Foraging deer can cause major damage to home gardens. These adorable woodland critters can ravage your yard by munchi...
Tag icon article
The Best Mosquito Traps Tested in 2023
Taking control of the mosquito population on your property isn't just about comfort—it's also about health. These rel...
Tag icon article
The 9 Best Ultrasonic Pest Repellers for Indoors and Out
If you have young children and pets, dealing with an insect or rodent infestation can be a hassle and even dangerous....
Tag icon slideshow
8 Pantry Pests That May Be Invading Your Food Stash
Pantry pests can be a real pain. Here’s how to identify eight of the most common insects that lurk in your pantry or cupboards.
Tag icon article
The Best Wasp Sprays for Pest Control
If you’re noticing more wasps too close for comfort in your outdoor living spaces, or even invading your home, it mig...
Tag icon article
The Best Rat Traps for Pest Control
If you see tiny droppings in the cupboard and hear scratching noises in the walls, you may have a rodent problem. Mic...
Tag icon article
The Best Mouse Poisons of 2023
A mouse’s ability to fit through a hole the diameter of a pen (approximately 6 millimeters) allows it to get into nea...
Tag icon article
The Best Rat Poisons of 2023
For homeowners, DIYers, and renters concerned about rat infestations or prevention, the best rat poison can take care...
Tag icon article
The Best Mosquito Repellents
To help prevent mosquito bites and repel these irritating insects you need an effective repellent. The best mosquito ...
Tag icon article
The Best Insect Repellents to Keep the Bugs Away
From swatting mosquitoes around the campfire to batting away blackflies on the lake, insects can really put a damper ...
Tag icon article
The 6 Best Magnetic Screen Doors Tested for Keeping Bugs Out
Warm weather means lots of comings and goings to and from the yard, deck, and patio. But when bugs barge in with you,...
Tag icon article
The Best Mole Repellents of 2023
Moles can be a difficult pest to get rid of once they establish themselves in your yard. Mole repellents come in many...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Gnats, Indoors and Out
Whether they’re hovering by the hundreds around your fruit bowl, clouding your vegetable garden, or swarming your fac...
Tag icon article
The Best Termite Treatments of 2023
Termites are elusive pests that can quickly form colonies in a home before showing significant signs of infestation. ...
Tag icon slideshow
Pests, Be Gone! 11 Natural Ways to Make Your Home Critter-Free
No need to use chemicals—instead, use these herbal, fruity, or soap-laden solutions for problems with pests like ants, mice, and mosquitos.
Tag icon article
The Best Bed Bug Sprays
Bed bugs (cimex lectularius) are tiny insects that feed on human blood, hiding in blankets, sheets, mattresses, and m...
Tag icon article
The Best Snake Repellents of 2023
Some people handle sudden and unexpected encounters with serpents surprisingly well, while others—not so much. Most h...
Tag icon article
The Best Fly Traps of 2023
Controlling flies may seem like an impossible battle. They reproduce quickly, and they’re extremely challenging to el...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Things People Believe About Mosquitoes That Aren’t True
Mosquitoes have a special ability to ruin a great time. Gardening, backyard barbecues, fireworks at the park, and fishing at the lake are loads of fun, as long as...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Things the Exterminator Won’t Tell You for Free
Try these pest control tips before calling an exterminator.
Tag icon article
The Best Spider Killers for Stubborn Pests
North America is home to 3,000 species of spiders. The vast majority of these arachnids are not dangerous; they’re mo...
Tag icon slideshow
Beware of These 14 Pests That Only Come Out at Night
While you’re sleeping, these nocturnal insects and critters are busy scavenging your property, pillaging your garden, and may even be making their way indoors.
Tag icon slideshow
15 Little Signs Your House Has a Big Problem
Small home annoyances are sometimes indicators of a bigger structural problem. Learn to recognize the signs of these maintenance issues that need to get addressed...
Tag icon article
The 10 Best Roach Killers and Baits to Safely Handle a Pest Problem
Cockroaches find their way into houses, apartments, sheds, and even vehicles where they can quickly become a full-blo...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Signs You Have a Pest Problem in the Garden
Decode the clues that sneaky garden gremlins leave behind and banish the little buggers with these pro tips.
Tag icon article
The Best Ant Killers
The earth is home to some 20 quadrillion ants, according to a recent study, so folks shouldn’t be surprised if an ant...
Tag icon slideshow
Mosquitoes Are the Worst in These Parts of the Country
With the exception of Iceland and Antarctica, almost every place on earth has some sort of mosquito problem. While the pesky insects can be found throughout the U...
Tag icon slideshow
6 Beneficial Garden Critters You Can Buy Online
Your garden inevitably attracts unwelcome visitors like aphids and tomato-loving caterpillars that can destroy your hard work practically overnight. But not all g...
Tag icon slideshow
These 13 Pests Do the Most Damage to the Home
You're probably all too well acquainted with some of the pests that can damage a house, but you might be surprised to learn about others that can wreak havoc, cau...
Tag icon article
6 Things to Know Before Spraying Insecticide
The much-anticipated arrival of spring also brings a plethora of insects. Some, like ladybugs and honeybees, are bene...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Places You Never Knew Pests Were Hiding
A clean house doesn’t necessarily keep bugs away. In fact, infestations can strike even the tidiest homes. Pests are determined and inventive, so when you're hunt...
Tag icon slideshow
These American Cities Have a Pest Problem
From roaches and rats to bedbugs and spiders, creepy-crawly pests—like their human counterparts—seem to enjoy living in large cities.
Tag icon article
The Best Mouse Traps to Keep Your House Rodent-Free
Even animal lovers should take active steps to get rid of mice because they can carry bacteria, which in turn can inf...
Tag icon article
Solved! Should You Really Kill House Centipedes?
Q: Eek! I woke up last night to use the bathroom and when I turned on the light, a bug with many legs scurried under ...
Tag icon article
The Bug Behind Your Patchy, Brown Grass
Q: Until this year, my tall fescue lawn has always been plush and green, but a few weeks ago, some yellow spots devel...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Ways You're Making Your Mosquito Problem Worse
Mosquitoes are an unfortunate reality of summer. As soon as the weather warms up and the humidity rises, any small body of stagnant water can become an instant br...
Tag icon slideshow
20 Tips for Keeping All Critters Out of Your Yard and Garden
An enjoyable afternoon spent working in the garden, a lovely evening relaxing in the yard: the exterior of your home provides plenty of opportunities to recharge ...
Tag icon slideshow
The 10 Most Dangerous Bugs to Watch Out for This Summer
Summer is here at last, along with all the fun and pleasurable outdoor activities that come with it. But as we spend these longer, warmer days outside, gardening,...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Chipmunks
Surely one of the cuter rodents you’ll ever counter, chipmunks are also among the most destructive. These small, stri...
Tag icon slideshow
12 Mistakes That Make Your Kitchen More Attractive to Bugs
If you want a pest-free kitchen, the name of the game is CLEAN. You’ll be more successful in deterring bugs if you keep crumbs and food waste to a minimum. So, to...
Tag icon article
Solved! What to Do When You Find Ticks in the House
Q: Yesterday I spotted a tick on my bathroom floor, and last week I found one on my clothing. Is it possible that I h...
Tag icon slideshow
Keep Ticks at Bay with 9 Smart Landscaping Tips
Strategic landscaping choices can help you get rid of ticks, protecting your family and pets from the danger posed by these insects, even in the seeming safety of...
Tag icon article
Solved! This is How to Get Rid of Ants in the Kitchen Once and for All
Q: I squashed an ant on my kitchen countertop this morning only to spot more circling the sink. Where did all of thes...
Tag icon slideshow
These Are the Most Dangerous Insects in America
Summertime is packed with fun activities: barbecues, beach vacations, afternoon swims, and backyard games. But the warm weather also summons pesky bugs and creepy...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Flies Outside
Landing on the food at your backyard barbecue. Buzzing around your face as you do yard work. Zipping through your fro...
Tag icon article
How To: Attract Owls to Your Yard—And Why You Should!
If mice, voles, or spiders have taken up residence on your lawn or in your garden, consider befriending their enemy: ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of June Bugs
Despite their name, June bugs (Phyllophaga spp. ) are active in adult form in May as well as June. Though the way the...
Tag icon article
Solved! What to Do When You Have Moths in the Closet
Q: I recently took my favorite sweater off of its hanger only to discover small holes in its knitting.  Could this me...
Tag icon article
Solved! What to Do About Mice in the Walls
Q: For the first time in my life, I have mice. I had thought that I dreamed the scratching and skittering sounds I he...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Squash Bugs—and Keep Them out of Your Garden for Good
Squash bugs take root on the undersides of leaves or near the crown of the plant, where they’ll lay clusters of oval-...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Flying Ants
Flying ants may seem more formidable than their tiny ant counterparts. Interestingly, though, flying ants—also known ...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Reasons Bugs Love Your Home
Despite having tiny wings and dozens of legs, insects aren’t entirely different from people. They require sleep, food, and shelter to survive—and like you, they m...
Tag icon article
Solved! What to Do About Woodpecker Damage
Q: Woodpeckers recently swooped in on my property and did a number on my cedar tree, siding, and roof. How do I plug ...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs
Homeowners with seed-bearing boxelder trees on their property may be all too familiar with the insects that lay eggs ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Mealybugs on Indoor and Outdoor Plants
Your beautiful garden and indoor potted greenery are equally vulnerable to mealybugs, tiny yet destructive pests that...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Aphids
Are your garden plants stunted, shriveled, yellowing, or curling at the leaves, despite your best efforts to keep the...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Snakes
They may be perceived as sneaky, slimy, and scary, but most snakes are not dangerous to humans. And, to their credit,...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Ticks In Your Yard
Ticks are a fact of outdoor life throughout the United States. These blood-feeding arachnids (joint-legged invertebra...
Tag icon article
How To: Make and Use Your Own Deer Repellent
Deer are delightful romping through the forest but can wreak havoc in a garden, decimating vegetables, fruit trees, l...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Rabbits
While children love big-eared Bugs Bunny chomping on a carrot, gardeners can identify closely with his cartoon nemesi...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Weirdly Effective Ways to Treat a Bug Bite
When the weather warms up, people spend more time outside. Unfortunately, mosquitoes, flies, and other biting insects have the same idea. These winged pests see y...
Tag icon article
How To Catch a Mouse
No horror movie can match the terror of a mouse skitter across the living room floor at night—because where there’s o...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Spider Mites
Tiny, sap-sucking arachnids known as spider mites can be a problem any time of year, not only in your garden but plag...
Tag icon slideshow
5 Pests That May Be Living in Your Gutters—And What You Can Do About It
Day after day, largely unnoticed, gutters perform a critically important role by channeling storm water and snowmelt a safe distance away from your home. At least...
Tag icon article
A Guide to Protecting Your Greatest Investment from Wood-Destroying Insects
This article has been brought to you by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). One of the biggest threats t...
Tag icon article
Here's Exactly What to Do About Squirrels in the Attic: DIY Methods and When to Call a Pro
What You Need to Know Squirrels commonly enter attics by finding gaps in siding and roofing or chewing holes in the ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Ladybugs
A healthy outdoor ladybug population is a good thing. Gardeners appreciate their voracious appetite for the destructi...
Tag icon article
Solved! What to Do About Wasps
Q: I’ve found not one but multiple wasps hanging out inside my house over the past few days, but no nest. Where could...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Weevils in Your Pantry
No matter how scrupulously you clean your kitchen, you may still open your cabinets one day to find them crawling wit...
Tag icon article
How To: Make Your Own Ant Trap
If you see an ant or two, chances are you’ll see more—many more—especially if there's something tasty lying around ne...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Caterpillars
A love of gardening often goes hand in hand with a hatred toward the pests that pervade the fruits of your labor, bot...
Tag icon article
Genius! Kill Off Fruit Flies with 3 Kitchen Basics
When you get back from the grocery store with bags full of juicy strawberries, peaches, and cherries, your kids won’t...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of a Skunk
Nocturnal and relatively shy, skunks aren’t often seen—but they certainly are smelled! Though the black-and-white cre...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Crows
The bald eagle may be our national symbol, but virtually every American has encountered the crow. These highly intell...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Grubs
They don’t care who you are or where you live. You won’t see them coming, and by the time they make their presence kn...
Tag icon article
3 Crazy Easy DIY Mosquito Traps (to Be Itch-Free for Good)
Itchy bites make mosquitoes a nuisance in any setting, but they’re especially aggravating when they violate your back...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Signs That Fixer-Upper Might Be a Money Pit
While a fixer-upper can be a lot cheaper than a home that's move-in ready, some fixer-uppers just aren't worth the headache. If the home you have your eye is plag...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Best Buys for a Bug-Free Home
It seems like annoying bugs are everywhere this time of year. Whether they're destroying plants in your garden, infesting your kitchen, or buzzing around your ear...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Voles Humanely in 7 Steps
If you’ve never actually seen a vole, that’s not surprising. The 7-inch-long rodent also known as a meadow mouse is r...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Fire Ants: 5 Tried-and-True Methods
Millions of people and animals are swarmed and stung every year by fire ants. Their burning (hence the name) bites ar...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Water Bugs Once and for All
When most people refer to a “water bug,” they're actually employing a delicate colloquialism for an insect whose mere...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles and Carpet Beetle Larvae
Carpet beetles enter your home in myriad ways: hitching rides on cut flowers, clothing, or pets, or simply flying in ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Gophers
Even if you’re not an avid cultivator of prized begonias or caretaker of an expensive golf course like Bill Murray’s ...
Tag icon article
3 Fixes for Dust Mites
Though far from pleasant to think about, there’s a good chance your home is ridden with dust mites—microscopic organi...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Bagworms
Notice an inexplicable mass destruction, yellowing, or defoliation in your evergreens? A close and careful look throu...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Centipedes
Centipedes, with no shortage of legs and alarming speed, seem to have been designed to make squeamish homeowners shri...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs
Stop! If you encounter an unfamiliar pest in your home, think twice before swatting it with a magazine. If you do any...
Tag icon slideshow
Time's Up: 9 Things to Repair in Your Home Before It's Too Late
Time never seems to be on our side, and it can especially work against us in the case of certain home repairs. A suspicious water spot on the ceiling, a slight cr...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Silverfish
Don't let the name fool you: Silverfish are nothing like the goldfish you nurtured as pets in your childhood bedroom....
Tag icon article
How to Make Homemade Mosquito Repellent: 6 Easy, Effective Recipes
Mention DEET (chemical name, N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) in a crowded room, and you’re likely to hear a chorus of dif...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Slugs
Even the smallest slugs play a big role in the ecosystem, feeding on decomposing matter and in turn providing protein...
Tag icon article
How to Make a DIY Wasp Trap from a Bottle and the Right Bait
Nothing can ruin a summer barbecue or evening by the pool like the threat of a wasp’s sting. Mind you, wasps aren’t a...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Essential Tips to Avoid Bed Bugs When Traveling
Everyone looks forward to summer vacation, but unwary travelers may get more than they bargain for when checking into a hotel: bed bugs. Though small in size and ...
Tag icon article
Quick Tip: Keeping Ants Out of Your Sandbox
Ants are one of those annoying pests that seem to pop up everywhere they're unwanted during the summer—picnics, kitch...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Drain Flies
Drain flies, also known as moth flies, are a common nuisance in many homes. These pests live and breed inside your pl...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Facts About Cockroaches You Won't Want to Believe
With ancestors tracing back more than 280 million years, cockroaches have been around for an incomprehensibly long time, and they're here to stay. Because no othe...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Flies in the House
As warm weather sweeps in, so does an annual nuisance: houseflies. The small black pests that get in your face, buzz ...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Squirrels
Don't let the bushy tails fool you. They may be cute and and bright-eyed, but if left unchecked, squirrels can do an ...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Fleas in Your Home
Fleas are irritating—not only for pets but also for people. If you have fleas in the house, you can usually expect so...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Spiders
Most people know that spiders benefit our homes and gardens by eating insects such as mosquitoes, flies and ants that...
Tag icon slideshow
7 House Sounds You Never Want to Ignore
Homes make strange noises on a regular basis, from groaning and creaking to popping and scratching. As a homeowner, you should be able to tell whether that noise ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Raccoons in 9 Simple Steps
Sure, raccoons are sort of cute, but know this: If it feels threatened, a raccoon can be dangerous, particularly if i...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Pantry Moths
Like their closet-lurking cousins, pantry moths are destructive pests. Act fast before they eat through (and lay eggs...
Tag icon article
How To: Prevent or Eliminate Closet Moths
Tineola bisselliella, the common clothes moth, wreaks havoc on wardrobes, destroying shirts and socks, pants and swea...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Bats—and Keep Them Away for Good
Bats aren’t much different from any other creature. “They’re looking for three things: food, shelter, and water,” say...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Skunk Smell
The stench of a skunk is strong and unmistakable, even when you’re in a car with the windows closed, driving through ...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Moles Effectively and Humanely
Although you may scratch your head over what animal is digging holes in your yard, there’s no mistaking when that ani...
Tag icon article
Are You Safe from Bedbugs?
Bedbugs haunt homeowners' nightmares like the bogeyman. These nasty little critters that feast on your blood while yo...
Tag icon article
How To: Make Your Own Insect Repellent
There's great satisfaction in making something you could just as easily purchase ready-made. Besides that special fee...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Wasps: Say "Goodbye!" in 5 Easy Steps
Spring and summer are lovely times of the year, but they do usher in a host of seasonal hazards, perhaps none more fe...
Tag icon article
How To: Keep Deer Out of Your Garden
Though deer look innocent, home gardeners know they can be a menace to plants and trees. Gardeners also know that bar...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches
You’re not alone in wanting to get rid of roaches. These creepy-crawly insects are a major problem around the country...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies: 5 DIY Traps
Fruit flies are tiny insects that flock to ripening and rotten fruits and vegetables, both as food sources and places...
Tag icon article
Creaks, Groans, and Squeaks: 11 Spooky House Sounds That Could Spell Trouble for Homeowners
  Homes often make strange noises. They’re built of many different materials—glass, concrete, wood—that expand and co...
Tag icon article
Be Nice to Mice: How to Build a Humane Mousetrap
None of us loves the idea of little Mickeys and Minnies scurrying around our homes. Some people insist they're cute, ...
Tag icon quiz
The Gross, Scary, and Entirely Truthful House Pest Quiz
Are you an amateur exterminator? Test your knowledge of these common house pests to find out!
Tag icon article
How To: Fight Off Termites
Preventing and treating termite infestations is a top priority for many homeowners. Termite control is not a do-it-yo...
Tag icon article
How To: Rodent-Proof Your Home
While Ratatouille might have been a runaway blockbuster film, no one wants rats in the house — or mice or squirrels o...
Tag icon article
Termite Infestation: Top Tips for Prevention and Treatment
The advent of spring is generally welcome, but warmer temperatures also bring out unwanted pests, namely termites. Of...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Bee & Wasp Control
Late summer’s when you see ‘em, but now’s not  actually the best time to mess with a bee or wasp nest. The queen esta...
Tag icon article
How To: Protect Your Home from Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants damage wood by hollowing it out for nesting. Unlike termites, wood damaged by carpenter ants does not ...
Tag icon video
Fixing a Rotted Deck and Columns on the Porch
Carpenters replace a rotted deck, and a rotted porch column is reconstructed with concrete.
Tag icon video
Replacing Sill, Repelling Insects and Rot, and Installing Sliding Doors With Custom Trim Molding
Damaged sill is replaced, the house is protected against insects and rot, and sliding doors with custom trim molding are installed.
Tag icon video
Sustainable Planting for Florida Landscape
Ken Micklow and Trent Culleny talk with Bob about native, storm-resistant gardening. Then Carm DiBella shows Bob an environmentally friendly termite protection s...
Tag icon video
Fighting Carpenter Ants and Repairing the Porch
The restoration of the front porch continues with workers putting the decking down and replacing the old columns. In addition, anti-termite control stations are p...
Tag icon video
Restoring the Front Porch
The front porch is undergoing full restoration, due to excessive water and pest damage to the columns and other structural elements. Demolition begins and repair ...
Tag icon video
Termite Prevention and Pouring the Concrete Floor
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley join exterminator Dean Bailey (of Fowler and Sons) to discuss termite control in and around the garage. Also, concrete contractor Sha...
Tag icon video
Dealing with Termite Damage
Bob reviews termite damage at the Naples project house and looks on as exterminators cover the home with a tent to enclose the space prior to fumigation.
Tag icon video
Termite Damage and Dry Rot
Bob confers with contractor Al Stouse about the termite and dry rot damage on the roof overhangs. Next, Bob helps build and install new roof brackets, or outriggers.
Tag icon video
Deck Framing with Pressure-Treated Lumber
Rick Kleiner (from the Southern Forest Products Association) joins Bob to talk about using pressure-treated deck members. Such lumber resists fungal growth, termi...
Radio banner a
Regulating the Refrigerator Temperature More clips
Get the Adobe Flash Player to listen to this audio file.
Follow banner a
Newsletter icon Flipboard glossy Facebook Twitter Pinterest Youtube Rss icon