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Keep Your Home Pest Free
Exposure to pests, such as mice and cockroaches has been linked to asthma in children. To control pests people often use pesticides which can cause further problems. The best way to control pests in your home is to make your house less inviting.
Action steps to keep pests out:
- Seal cracks and crevices with copper mesh, expanding foam, or caulk
- Eliminate sources of food and water
- Use trash cans with sealable covers to prevent rodent and pest infestation
- Avoid spraying and fogging
- For more information on reducing the need for pesticides – I think I need to use pesticides
Dust mites & Asthma
Dust mites are tiny bugs that feed on human skin flakes. They are found in mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, bedcovers, clothes, stuffed toys and fabric-covered items. Body parts and droppings can trigger asthma in individuals with allergies to dust mites. Exposure to dust mites can cause asthma in children who have not previously exhibited asthma symptoms.
Action steps to reduce dust mites:
- Wash bedding in hot water once a week. Dry completely.
- Vacuum carpets and furniture weekly
- Wash stuffed toys in hot water regularly and keep off beds
- Use dust proof covers on pillows and mattresses
Roaches & Asthma
Cockroaches and their droppings can trigger an asthma attack in some individuals.
Action steps to get rid of roaches:
- Keep counters, sinks, tables and floors clean and free of clutter
- Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink or on the counter
- Clean up food spills right away
- Store food in airtight containers
- Seal cracks or openings around or inside cabinets
- Use safer pesticides like roach traps and gels
- Learn more about controlling Roaches
Resources
National Pesticide Information Center
EPA - Environmentally Sensitive Approach to Managing Pests
Bedbug FAQs
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