Most people are aware that stinging insects such as bees and wasps can cause an allergic reaction. But did you know that common household pests such as cockroaches and dust mites can also cause allergic reactions? The symptoms they trigger range from sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes to severe, life-threatening asthma attacks.

What causes the problem?
All homes contain dust mites and more than 63% of homes have cockroaches. Their saliva, urine, feces and decomposing body parts contribute allergens when they become part of your household dust, and you regularly touch and inhale this debris.

What can you do to protect yourself and your family?
At Amco Ranger Termite & Pest Solutions, we understand how important your living space is to your family’s health, and we can help. Our expert technicians provide comprehensive, professional and environmentally responsible pest control services that remove insect-related asthma and allergy triggers from your home environment. Contact us today for a free inspection.

There are also changes you can make to your home to reduce the numbers of these unwanted guests.

Cockroach Prevention

• Cover all trashcans tightly.
• Store food in airtight containers.
• Do not leave dishes in the sink or on the counter.
• Clean spills and remove food crumbs from counters, stovetop, tables, and floor.
• Avoid leaving pet food out and clean the bowl regularly.
• Fix leaky pipes under sinks and in the basement.
• Seal cracks in the walls and floors where cockroaches can enter your home.
• Use cockroach baits and traps.

Dust Mite Prevention

• Cover mattresses and pillows in zippered, dust-proof covers.
• Wash your bedding weekly in hot water that’s at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Get rid of all types of fabric that mites love and cannot be washed regularly in hot water. Avoid wall-to-wall carpeting, curtains, blinds, upholstered furniture and down-filled covers and pillows. Put roll-type shades on your windows instead of curtains.
• Use a HEPA filter with your central furnace and air conditioning unit. Special HEPA filter vacuum cleaners can help to keep dust from getting back into the air.
• Wash rugs in hot water or dry clean them.
• Keep the humidity in your home less than 50 percent.

Check out our pest control strategies to help you fight your allergies.