30 Common Household Pests and Tips for Control Them

Unwanted pests in the home are more than just an annoyance—they can cause damage, spread disease, and make life uncomfortable. Whether you're spotting ants in your kitchen or hearing scratching sounds in your attic, identifying the culprit is the first step toward solving the problem. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the most common pests that invade homes, explain how to recognize them, highlight any potential threats they may pose, and provide practical, detailed prevention and control strategies tailored to each pest’s behavior and biology.

Ants

Ants are social insects that live in colonies and are commonly seen marching in trails in kitchens, bathrooms, or along baseboards. They vary in size and color depending on the species—ranging from tiny odorous house ants to large carpenter ants. While most ants are primarily a nuisance, carpenter ants can excavate wood, potentially weakening structural elements.

Control Tip: Seal all cracks and entry points with caulk, eliminate food crumbs and spills, and place sugar-based bait traps or gel bait near ant trails. For carpenter ants, locate and remove damp wood, and consider professional treatment to access hidden nests inside walls.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small, flat, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood at night. They hide in mattress seams, bed frames, furniture joints, and even behind wallpaper. While not known to transmit disease, their bites can cause severe itching, allergic reactions, and psychological stress due to disrupted sleep.

Control Tip: Regularly inspect beds and upholstered furniture. Wash infested items in hot water and dry on high heat. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and encase mattresses in bed bug-proof covers. For severe infestations, heat treatment or licensed exterminators are highly recommended.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are resilient pests that thrive in warm, humid environments. They are most active at night and often hide behind appliances, under sinks, or in wall voids. Species like the German cockroach reproduce rapidly and can spread allergens, bacteria, and pathogens by contaminating food and surfaces.

Control Tip: Deep clean kitchen areas, eliminate moisture, and use roach baits with insect growth regulators. Seal cracks and remove cardboard, which they use for shelter. Professional pest control may be required for extensive infestations.

Houseflies

Houseflies and other indoor flies are not just annoying—they are serious vectors of disease. They can transmit more than 100 pathogens, including salmonella and E. coli, by picking up contaminants from garbage or feces and depositing them on food and surfaces.

Control Tip: Keep trash covered and remove it frequently. Clean drains and pet waste, install window screens, and use UV light traps or sticky fly paper in high-risk areas.

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Fruit flies

Fruit flies are small, fast-reproducing insects that gather around fermenting fruit, vinegar, and sugary liquids. Just one overripe banana can attract dozens in a day. Their tiny size allows them to slip through screens and infest even the cleanest kitchens.

Control Tip: Store produce in the refrigerator, clean drains, and use vinegar and dish soap traps. Check for hidden sources like spilled wine or soda behind furniture.

Drain flies

Drain flies, also called moth flies, are fuzzy, slow-moving insects that breed in organic matter lining drains. They are often mistaken for fruit flies but have a moth-like appearance and fuzzy wings.

Control Tip: Pour boiling water or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down drains, scrub the biofilm inside pipes with a long brush, and use enzyme cleaners to dissolve organic buildup.

Mosquitoes 

Mosquitoes are blood-feeding pests responsible for transmitting dangerous diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika, and dengue fever. They breed in stagnant water—often unnoticed sources like birdbaths, clogged gutters, or plant saucers can be breeding grounds.

Control Tip: Dump standing water weekly, treat ponds with larvicides like mosquito dunks, and install screens on windows and doors. For added protection, use repellents containing DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

Wasps

Wasps are flying insects with slender waists, smooth bodies, and powerful stingers. Unlike bees, wasps can sting multiple times and become highly aggressive, particularly near their nests.

Control Tip: Identify and eliminate food sources like sugary drinks and protein scraps outdoors. Use decoy nests to deter new colonies and spray insecticide at night when wasps are inactive. Always seek professional help for large or hidden nests.

Yellow Jackets

A type of wasp, yellow jackets are aggressive defenders of their underground or wall-void nests. They are highly attracted to sweet foods and meats during late summer and early fall.

Control Tip: Set up commercial yellow jacket traps away from living areas. Close trash bins securely and cover food outdoors. Never attempt DIY removal of large nests—contact a licensed exterminator.

Gnats

Gnats are tiny black or gray flying insects that thrive in moist environments. Common indoor gnats include fungus gnats, which breed in overwatered houseplants and compost.

Control Tip: Allow houseplant soil to dry completely between waterings. Use yellow sticky traps to capture adults and consider beneficial nematodes or hydrogen peroxide soil soaks to kill larvae.

No-See-Ums

No-See-Ums are tiny biting midges, often less than 1/16 inch long, and their bites can be disproportionately painful. They're especially active near bodies of water and can pass through standard window screens.

Control Tip: Install 16-mesh or finer window screens. Wear long clothing outdoors and apply insect repellents. Use outdoor fans to keep them away from patios, as they're weak fliers.

Termites

Termites are known as "silent destroyers" due to their ability to chew through wood, flooring, and even wallpaper without immediate detection. They live in underground colonies and build mud tubes to access above-ground food sources. Common signs of infestation include hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings, and blistering paint.

Control Tip: Remove wood-to-soil contact, fix leaking pipes, and keep firewood stored away from the home. Use baiting systems or have a pest professional apply termiticide barriers around the home’s foundation.

Silverfish

Silverfish are small, wingless insects with metallic scales and a tapered, fish-like shape. They are nocturnal and thrive in damp, dark environments like bathrooms and basements. Silverfish feed on carbohydrates, including paper, glue, and textiles.

Control Tip: Use dehumidifiers to lower moisture levels, seal cracks, and apply diatomaceous earth or boric acid in affected areas. Store books and clothing in airtight containers.

Moths

Indoor moths fall into two categories: clothes moths, which feed on wool, silk, and other natural fibers, and pantry moths, which infest grains and packaged foods. Infestations are often discovered by the presence of larvae or webbing in cabinets or clothing.

Control Tip: Regularly clean closets and pantries. Freeze infested items to kill larvae, and use pheromone traps to monitor and capture adults. Seal all food in airtight containers.

Beetles

Beetles such as carpet beetles and flour beetles can infest both food and fabrics. Carpet beetle larvae feed on natural fibers and can cause allergic reactions. Flour beetles are commonly found in pantries, infesting grains, cereals, and spices.

Control Tip: Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture frequently. Remove infested food and wipe down shelves with vinegar. Consider pest-proof storage containers.

Spiders

Spiders are often misunderstood household guests. While most are harmless and even help control other insect populations, some like the black widow or brown recluse pose health risks. Webs in corners or basements are signs of their presence.

Control Tip: Declutter storage areas, regularly remove cobwebs, and seal cracks and windows. Use glue traps to monitor for activity, and consult professionals if dangerous species are suspected.

Centipedes

House centipedes have long, flattened bodies with multiple pairs of legs and move quickly across floors and walls. They are nocturnal hunters that feed on other household pests like roaches, spiders, and termites.

Control Tip: Reduce household moisture and clutter. Seal baseboards and wall gaps, and eliminate other insect infestations to remove their food source.

Earwigs

Earwigs are reddish-brown insects recognizable by their curved pincers on the rear. They are scavengers and feed on dead plant material and small insects. Though intimidating in appearance, their pinch is harmless.

Control Tip: Keep mulch, leaves, and organic debris away from the foundation. Use rolled-up newspaper traps at night and apply barrier treatments around the home.

Crickets

Crickets can become indoor nuisances, especially at night due to their loud chirping. Field crickets are dark brown or black, while camel crickets have a humpbacked appearance. They may chew on fabric, paper, and even plants indoors.

Control Tip: Seal foundation cracks and gaps in windows and doors. Reduce outside lighting at night to avoid attracting them. Indoors, use sticky traps and remove clutter where they may hide.

Mites

Mites are microscopic arachnids, including dust mites, clover mites, and bird mites. Dust mites thrive in beds, carpets, and upholstery, causing allergies and asthma. Clover mites are red and often invade homes in large numbers around windows. Bird mites may bite humans if they lose their bird host.

Control Tip: Wash bedding in hot water weekly. Vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter, use dust-mite-proof covers on mattresses, and maintain humidity below 50%. Seal entry points for outdoor mite types.

Cluster Flies

Cluster flies are sluggish and larger than houseflies. They do not breed indoors or spread disease but enter homes during fall to overwinter. You may find them around windows or attics in large groups.

Control Tip: Seal exterior cracks before fall. Use UV fly traps in attics and vacuum up flies without crushing them to avoid odor. Professional-grade residual sprays can deter entry.

The Western conifer seed bug is a reddish-brown insect with a flattened body and distinctive leaf-shaped hind legs. It seeks shelter indoors during fall and may emit a pine-like odor when disturbed.

Control Tip: Install screens and door sweeps, seal wall gaps, and vacuum bugs without crushing them. Insecticides around entry points can reduce infestations.

Ladybugs

Ladybugs are generally beneficial in gardens but can become pests indoors when they gather in large numbers to overwinter. The Asian lady beetle, in particular, can stain walls and emit a foul odor.

Control Tip: Seal exterior gaps and use light traps in attics. Vacuum individual beetles and dispose of them. Avoid squashing to prevent stains and odor.

Stink bugs

Stink bugs are shield-shaped insects known for their odor when squashed. They enter homes in fall to hibernate and gather in windows or behind curtains and baseboards.

Control Tip: Use caulk to seal exterior cracks. Avoid crushing them—vacuum instead and dispose of the bag outdoors. Install fine mesh on attic vents and chimneys.

Wolf Spiders

Wolf spiders are large, hairy, fast-moving hunters that don’t spin webs. They often enter basements, garages, and sheds while searching for prey or shelter.

Control Tip: Keep basements clutter-free, seal baseboards and cracks, and reduce indoor insect populations. Use sticky traps to monitor their activity.

Daddy Long Legs (Cellar Spiders)

Daddy long legs, or cellar spiders, are harmless spiders with long, delicate legs and small bodies. They’re often seen in basements and corners, spinning loose webs.

Control Tip: Dust and vacuum spider webs regularly. Reduce humidity levels in basements and use dehumidifiers or ventilation fans. Seal small crevices and gaps.

House Centipedes

House centipedes have long, slender bodies with 15 pairs of legs and a pair of long antennae. They’re nocturnal hunters that feed on pests like cockroaches, bed bugs, and termites.

Control Tip: Lower indoor humidity levels with dehumidifiers, seal entry points, and reduce clutter. House centipedes are beneficial, but if their presence is unwanted, physical removal and traps are effective.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are among the largest ants and can be red, black, or a combination of both. They excavate wood to build their nests, often in damp or damaged areas, and can cause structural damage over time.

Control Tip: Remove decayed or water-damaged wood, improve drainage around the house, and place bait traps near trails. For large colonies, a professional exterminator may be necessary.

Field Ants

Field ants nest outdoors but may forage into homes. They are usually larger than house ants and often confused with carpenter ants. Their nests appear as mounds in soil, especially near foundations.

Control Tip: Eliminate outdoor mounds using labeled insecticides, maintain a vegetation-free barrier around the foundation, and seal cracks in the home's exterior.

Pantry Pests

Pantry pests include insects like Indian meal moths, flour beetles, and weevils that infest stored grains, flour, nuts, and dried fruit. Signs include webbing, larvae, or adult insects in food packages.

Control Tip: Discard all infested food, clean shelves with soap and water or vinegar, and store dry goods in airtight containers. Use pheromone traps to monitor and prevent reinfestation.

Final Tips for Prevention

Preventing household pests from entering your home is all about consistent, proactive maintenance. Simple measures can go a long way in keeping your home pest-free. Here are some of the most effective strategies:

Seal All Entry Points

The first step to keeping pests out is to prevent them from entering in the first place. Seal cracks and gaps in windows, doors, and the foundation. Even the smallest opening can provide a route for insects and rodents to sneak inside. Use weather stripping and caulk to seal cracks around windows and doors. Pay special attention to areas around plumbing pipes, vents, and ducts. Installing door sweeps on external doors can also block entry for many pests. Make sure screens are intact, and replace any damaged or torn ones, as flies and mosquitoes can easily slip through even the smallest holes.

Maintain a Clean Environment

A clean home is a less attractive environment for pests. Regular vacuuming and dusting reduce food crumbs and prevent pest infestations. Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas like baseboards, under furniture, and in corners. Empty trash bins regularly, and use sealed containers for food waste. Pests such as ants and cockroaches are often attracted to food scraps, so keep countertops, stoves, and sinks clean, especially after meals. Don’t forget to regularly clean under appliances and in cabinets to remove potential food sources.

Control Moisture and Humidity

Many pests, such as cockroaches, mold mites, and silverfish, thrive in damp environments. Fix leaking pipes and check for any standing water in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Using dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and laundry rooms helps to reduce moisture levels that attract pests. Make sure to dry wet towels, clothes, and bath mats promptly to prevent moisture buildup. Proper ventilation is also key—ensure that bathrooms and kitchens are properly ventilated to avoid high humidity levels.

Proper Food Storage

Proper food storage is essential to keep pantry pests like grain beetles, weevils, and moths away. Store dry goods, such as flour, oats, pasta, and grains, in airtight containers made of plastic or glass. This prevents pests from getting into the food and reproducing. Also, make sure to regularly inspect food products for signs of pests, such as webbing, larvae, or small holes in packaging. Refrigerate or freeze dry foods for a few days if you suspect they may be infested. Avoid leaving food out in the open, and always keep food sealed when not in use.

Declutter Regularly

Pests thrive in cluttered environments because they have more hiding places. Declutter your home regularly by organizing closets, attics, and storage areas. Minimize the number of cardboard boxes in your home, as they are often a favorite hiding spot for pests like cockroaches and mice. By keeping items organized and off the floor, you reduce potential nesting areas for pests. For areas like attics, basements, and garages, try using plastic bins for storage instead of cardboard boxes.

Eliminate Outdoor Attractants

Your yard can play a significant role in pest prevention. Overgrown vegetation and standing water can attract pests like mosquitoes, ants, and rodents. Keep shrubs and trees trimmed, especially near windows and doors, and remove any leaves, mulch, or debris that might serve as shelter for pests. Clean gutters to avoid water accumulation and ensure that water does not pool near your home’s foundation. Trash bins should be sealed tightly, and outdoor food sources like pet food should be brought inside. If you have a compost pile, ensure it’s sealed in a container that pests can’t access.

Inspect Regularly for Signs of Infestation

Regularly inspect your home for signs of pest activity. Check areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces, as these are common entry points for pests. Look for droppings, webs, or damaged items that indicate pest activity. Sticky traps can be used in key areas like under sinks or in cupboards to monitor for rodents or insects. If you notice signs of pests, it’s important to act quickly to prevent an infestation from spreading.

Use Natural Deterrents

If you want to avoid chemical pesticides, there are several natural deterrents that can help repel pests. Essential oils such as peppermint, citronella, and eucalyptus are known to repel insects like mosquitoes, ants, and flies. You can create your own natural pest repellent by mixing essential oils with water and spraying it around windows, doorways, and other areas where pests are likely to enter. For rodents, mothballs and bay leaves are natural repellents that can help keep them away from food sources and storage areas.

Know When to Call for Professional Help

If you find that pests have taken over despite your best efforts, it may be time to call a professional pest control service. A pest management expert can help identify the type of infestation and apply targeted treatments. Termites, bed bugs, and large rodent infestations often require professional intervention due to the severity of damage they can cause and the specialized treatments needed to eliminate them. If you’re unsure, having a professional inspection can save you from the cost and stress of dealing with a serious infestation.