Pests of all sizes—from tiny ants to large snakes—are always searching for a way into your home. Even the smallest crack or hole can become an entry point. That’s why sealing gaps and securing your space is essential to keeping these intruders out. Stay proactive and protect your home!
Common Pests and How to Deal with Them
1. Rats & Mice
If you hear tiny footsteps at night or notice chewed wires, insulation, or food packaging, you likely have a rodent problem. Droppings are another clear sign, and where there’s one, there are usually more.
What to Do:
Seal Entry Points – Close any cracks or holes in your home’s exterior.
Remove Climbing Access – Vines and ivy on walls can help rodents enter, so consider removing them.
Keep It Clean – Properly dispose of trash and food waste, as they attract rodents.
2. Snakes
Snakes sometimes crawl up sewer pipes in search of food, occasionally making their way into toilets. This is more common in warm climates, usually involving small, harmless snakes. However, larger snakes have been found in toilets in regions like South America and Australia.
3. Spiders
Spiders don’t swim through pipes, but they can enter bathrooms through small openings. While most stay outside the toilet, venomous species like black widows, brown recluses, and hobo spiders may weave webs inside, especially in outdoor toilets. Always check before using an outhouse!
4. Lizards
In the southwestern U.S., lizards sometimes enter toilet pipes seeking water and food. Dirty plumbing can attract insects like crickets and flies, drawing lizards inside. Fortunately, only small ones can fit through the pipes.
5. Opossums
Opossums often climb into homes through the roof. If trapped, they may scratch walls and make loud hissing noises. Their droppings also have a strong odor.
How to Prevent Them:
- Inspect your home regularly.
- Seal any gaps.
- Cover vents with mesh.
- If an opossum gets inside, call a professional for safe removal.
6. Frogs
Frogs can sneak into homes through vent pipes or plumbing. In 2020, the UK experienced mass toilet invasions linked to frogspawn developing in sewage systems.
7. Bats
Bats are nocturnal and usually quiet unless there’s a large infestation. They often hide in attics or walls, leaving at dusk. Bright lights can deter them, but professional removal may be needed if they’ve already settled inside.
Preventing Pests in Your Bathroom
To keep snakes and other pests out of your toilet:
✅ Install a one-way flap to block entry.
✅ Keep drains clean with disinfectants, vinegar, or baking soda.
✅ Use pest deterrents like a mix of sugar, vinegar, water, and dish soap.
✅ Occasionally pour boiling water into the toilet.
✅ Hire professionals for deep cleaning if necessary.
How to Keep Other Bugs Away
- Ants – Sprinkle cinnamon powder where ants enter. Adding essential oils enhances effectiveness and leaves a pleasant scent.
- Cockroaches – Mix chopped onion with baking soda and place in corners. Replace daily for the best results.
- Drain Flies – Clean sinks with a mix of baking soda, salt, and vinegar, then flush with warm water.
- Dust Mites – Soak fabrics in eucalyptus oil and detergent, or spray non-washable items with the mixture. Tea tree oil works, too.
- Weevils – Place bay leaves or cloves in food storage to repel them.
- Ticks – Make a spray using rose geranium, lavender, citronella, and rubbing alcohol. Use before going outside.
By staying vigilant and taking these preventative steps, you can keep unwanted pests from invading your home and bathroom.