Yelp Reveals This Summer’s Top Pest Problems Across the US

Summer is in full swing, which means plenty of insects, bugs, and rodents are out to ruin your fun in the sun. Yelp just released data uncovering the top pest problems in the United States, and there’s a lot to deal with.

Read on to learn about the top ten pest problems this summer and how to deal with these uninvited guests.

1. Cockroach

Cockroach searches are up 323% this year, making it the number one problem for exterminators. Notably, Washington, DC ranks number one for cockroach control services.

Use cockroach traps and place them around high-traffic areas of your home, such as kitchen cabinets and under the oven. You can use baking soda where you see them.

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2. Spider

Calls for help about spiders have increased 236% nationwide this year, which means it’s time to start planning for an evacuation. One of the most effective ways to rid your home of spiders is to remove their food and water sources.

Make sure to clean dirty dishes and don’t leave crumbs or leftovers for pests to eat. Spiders especially like to live in corners or under furniture, so be sure to clean those hard-to-reach spaces.

3. Wasps

No one wants wasps to ruin their summer vacation, and unfortunately, wasps are invading the country, with searches up 147% from last year. Searches for wasp help are ranking highest in Washington, Colorado, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona.

Wasp traps are easy to hang around your yard and will kill the wasps as they enter. You can also make your own repellent.

4. Termites

One of the last things you want in your yard or home is termites. These small but powerful pests are experts at destroying dead wood, which can cause havoc.

Termite searches are up 121% this year, with the highest searches in Hawaii, Florida, California, Arizona, and Delaware. To get rid of termites, treat the soil outside with an insecticide. Boric acid can also work well.

5. Ants

Ants always seem to show up when you least expect it, and whether it’s at a summer party or a picnic with your partner, let’s agree that no one wants them in their home. Ants are the fifth most searched for pests.

What is the best way to get rid of them? Remove all food sources from your kitchen and dispose of trash properly.

6. Fleas

Searches for flea control services have increased by 85% this year, which means they’re just as annoying as they’ve ever been.

To keep them out of your home, vacuum regularly, especially in areas where your pets have been. Also, be sure to wash your pet’s bedding if you have any.

7. Ticks

Ticks feed on human and animal blood, so it’s important to get rid of them right away. Although they’re #7 on this list, searches for them have increased by 79% this year, so it’s still something to keep in mind when enjoying summer activities.

If you spot them, vacuum and clean carpets and furniture from top to bottom. Wash bedding and other linens in hot water as well.

8. Bed bugs

Bed bugs (up 72% this year) are something you never want to see in your home. If you need to kill them quickly, expose them to high heat or vacuum them up.

Dispose of them immediately outside and away from your home.

9. Mouse

While mice are fun to see in cartoons, it’s not fun to see them pop up in the kitchen when you’re preparing to entertain guests.

According to Yelp, searches for how to get rid of mice are still up 57% this year. Luckily, we find that mouse traps are effective and fast.

10. Mosquitoes

Surprisingly, mosquitoes are at the bottom of the list but are still up 53% this summer. Luckily, keeping these pests at bay is pretty easy with some simple maintenance.

Remove any standing water in your yard and don’t forget to use mosquito repellent.