When pests appear, many people turn to social media, home remedies, or “old housewife” tricks before calling a professional. But do these methods really work, or are they ineffective? Or worse, do they delay expert help while allowing the problem to get worse? Let’s bust some common pest control myths.
Q: Will peppermint oil get rid of rats or mice?
A: Peppermint oil may act as a short-term repellent in very high concentrations, but it will not remove an infestation. Rodents quickly become accustomed to smells, especially when food and nesting areas are present.
Q: Do onions or garlic scare rats and mice away?
A: No. There is no scientific evidence that onions or garlic effectively repel rodents. While strong smells may cause brief curiosity or avoidance, rats and mice quickly adapt – particularly if food, warmth, or shelter is available. These methods do not stop breeding, nesting, or re-entry and are not a reliable form of control.
Q: Do ultrasonic devices work against rats, mice, foxes, pigeons, or bed bugs?
A: Independent studies have found no consistent evidence that ultrasonic devices provide long-term pest control. Some animals may initially react, but most quickly adapt or are unaffected altogether.
Q: Can foxes be deterred using sound devices, lights, or strong smells?
A: These methods may temporarily alter fox behaviour, but foxes are intelligent and adaptable. Without removing attractants such as food sources or shelter, deterrents rarely provide lasting results.
Q: Do conkers repel spiders when placed in room corners?
A: No. There is no scientific evidence that conkers repel spiders. This is a long-standing myth, and spiders are not affected by them.
Q: Will essential oils kill bed bugs?
A: Some essential oils can kill bed bugs on direct contact in laboratory settings, but they are not effective for controlling infestations. Bed bugs hide deep in cracks and fabrics, where oils cannot reliably reach.
Q: Do fake owls or hawks work to scare away pigeons?
A: Fake owls or hawks may briefly deter feral pigeons for a few days, particularly in new or quiet areas. However, pigeons are highly intelligent and quickly learn that these decoys pose no real threat. Once birds become accustomed to them, they will return to roosting as normal, making these methods ineffective long-term.
Q: Does citronella get rid of insects like bed bugs or fleas?
A: Citronella can act as a mild repellent for some flying insects, such as mosquitoes, but there is no evidence that it effectively controls bed bugs or fleas. These pests live in hidden areas close to hosts and are not repelled or eliminated by citronella-based products.
Q: Should I throw away my bed or furniture if I have bed bugs?
A: In most cases, no. While removing furniture may slightly reduce numbers, it is often unnecessary and costly if the right bed bug treatment is carried out. Bed bugs hide in many locations, including skirting boards, plug sockets, curtain folds, bed frames, and behind picture frames. Professional treatment can successfully treat beds and furniture as part of a full infestation control plan.
Q: Will replacing carpets solve a carpet moth or carpet beetle problem?
A: No. Throwing away carpets and fitting new ones does not resolve the underlying issue. Carpet moth and carpet beetle larvae often remain hidden in cracks, floor edges, furniture, or underfloor areas and will infest the new carpet. Proper identification and treatment are essential before spending money on the replacement of flooring.
Q: Does urinating in the garden keep foxes away?
A: Human urine may temporarily deter foxes by creating a strong scent, but it does not provide a reliable or lasting solution. Foxes are adaptable and may return once they become accustomed to the smell or if attractants remain. Professional advice and control measures are the most effective way to manage fox activity.
Q: Can cleanliness alone prevent pests?
A: Good hygiene reduces attraction but does not guarantee pest prevention. Many pests, including rodents and insects, are driven by shelter and warmth as much as food.
Q: Are “natural” or DIY methods safer and just as effective as professional treatments?
A: Not necessarily. Some DIY methods are ineffective, while others can be misused and pose health or safety risks. Professional pest control uses regulated products and proven methods tailored to the specific pest.
Q: Why do some home remedies seem to work at first?
A: Temporary changes in pest behaviour can create the impression of success. However, this does not address breeding cycles, nesting sites, or entry points, so the problem often returns.
Q: Can poor advice make pest problems worse?
A: Yes. Delaying proper treatment can allow infestations to spread, increase damage, and make eventual control more complex and costly.
Summary
Many pest control myths persist because they offer simple, low-cost solutions. While some may cause brief disturbance, there is no strong evidence that home remedies or ultrasonic devices provide effective long-term pest control. Accurate identification, proper treatment, and preventative measures are essential – and this is where professional pest control remains the most reliable approach.
