Finding a pest infestation in your home or office can be annoying, especially if it’s the type that you can’t rid of easily. In an attempt to deal with the problem quickly and cheaply, you may consider opting for a DIY pesticide solution.
Using DIY pesticides can be dangerous, and our experts recommend rather opting for the pest control Melbourne professionals provide. This post takes a closer look at the key reasons why you shouldn’t use DIY pesticides around your home or workspace.
Table of Contents
DIY Pest Control is Riskier than People Know
There are many DIY pest control products available in your local hardware store and online. This often makes homeowners believe they can take care of the problem without the assistance of skilled professionals. Our experts have listed the top reasons why this is never a good idea.
1. Labels can be Misleading
A little-known fact is that DIY pesticide labels are often deceptive. This means that the ingredients listed on the container may not be an accurate representation of what’s inside. You may end up spraying a solution that you think is harmless to you and your pets but isn’t.
Toxic pest control solutions can cause severe respiratory issues, and skin rashes, and can even burn your skin. Spraying toxic chemical-based solutions will also harm the pollinators such as bees and butterflies which will affect the overall ecosystem on your property.
When you opt for a professional pest controller, they will use a solution that’s tailored to the type of pest you’re dealing with. They will also use environmentally friendly solutions that are not only regulated but also safe to use around people and pets.
2. Incorrect Disposal Measures Aren’t Always Safe
Using DIY pest control comes with the added risk of the empty containers not being disposed of correctly. Throwing them in the regular garbage bin can run the risk of them getting in contact with other people or animals. Pouring any leftover poison on the grass or down the drain can also be toxic to the environment and the main water system.
3. Toxins Can End Up in Water Run-Off
People using DIY pesticides don’t always use the specified amount and may end up spraying the poison everywhere in an attempt to prevent pests from moving to another part of the property.
Spraying toxins where they’re not needed can result in them ending up in the water run-off in the area. This happens when rainwater or water from your hose washes traces of poison toward stormwater drains or anywhere near the main drainage systems. It’s essential to point out that many pesticides are toxic, even when diluted and can be dangerous.
Professional pest controllers also use regulated solutions that are not harmful to the environment. They also won’t spray solutions all over your property where it can cause harm. Rather, they will direct spraying to areas that show existing or possible signs of pest infestation.
4. Pesticides Require PPE
Online tutorials and how-to guides make pesticide mixing and applications seem quick and easy. In the process, individuals often neglect the correct application procedures. This often includes ditching masks, gloves, and other essential PPE.
Some pesticides, even the ready-mixed solutions you find on the shelves in your grocery store can burn unprotected skin or cause severe blistering or skin allergies. Pesticides are also known for causing or aggravating existing respiratory issues.
Professionals will always warn you of the dangers and precautions when they’re applying pesticides in your environment. They will also wear the necessary PPE and mix solutions away from children and pets.
5. DIYers Often Spray Toxins at Incorrect Times
For pest control to be effective, it needs to be sprayed or applied at specific times. This is because solutions need to be applied when insects are back in their nests. Other times, toxins should be applied in the areas where you’ve seen the insects. This will not only kill the insects but will create a poison trail that is designed to kill insects returning to the area.
Pest control isn’t a one size that fits approach, and some solutions are better for certain types of pest infestations than others. Spraying your DIY pesticide all over the place may not have the desired effect. Your pest controller will adopt the right solution for the specific pest.
For more severe pest infestations your pest controller may request that you and your family leave the home for a few days. They will then increase the dose to ensure your home is completely pest-free by the time you return. As a novice, you may not know which poisons are too toxic to use.
Final Thoughts
If you’re having a pest problem in your home or workspace, you should follow our expert guidelines and never use DIY products. Many of these products are toxic and can even be fatal to people and pets. Stay safe by enlisting the help of your trusted pest control team as they will use the most effective solution that’s not only safe but also long-term.
