Integrated pest management (IPM) is widely recognized as the most effective and least toxic method for managing pest control issues. Using IPM indoors also helps reduce asthma triggers by minimizing or eliminating the need for pesticides while removing pest-produced allergens. 

IPM provides a way of thinking about pests as a cultural and structural issue, not an individual pest issue. If you have pests in your home, there are reasons they’re getting in and staying. If you can address the underlying issues that allow pests to enter and cause them to stay in your home, you’ll be able to deploy informed solutions that are proven to work and reduce pests of all kinds in your home.  

Below are steps you can take to get rid of pests like mice, ants, and roaches. These tried-and-true techniques will work on most indoor pests and will help reduce your need for pesticide sprays and foggers. These steps are suggestions, so please make sure to speak with an expert to ensure these are the best choices for you. 

If you are a renter, you may need to place a work order with the landlord or building manager to complete the work. Follow up with them and keep a record of each of your requests, including the date and a copy of the paperwork you filled out. This will be useful should you have to seek additional help.  

To learn more about integrated pest management strategies and opportunities at ElevateNP.org/Pest-Management/ or contact Ruth Kerzee at 773-269-4065.

1. Look Around and Play Detective

Conduct a thorough inspection of your home to determine where pests are coming in, where they might be hiding, and where they find food and water in your home. Pests often enter buildings through cracks and small spaces and can hide there as well. Did you know that an adult mice can enter through a hole the size of a dime?  

Make sure to check behind the fridge, the oven, and under the kitchen sink – these are often popular hiding spots. And remember, the sooner you notice pests, the easier they are to get rid of.

2. Repair

Based on what you discovered when looking around your home, start sealing cracks, crevices, and holes to help keep pests out of your home. Start by repairing areas where pests are the biggest problem, usually the kitchen and bathroom, and pay special attention to places where pipes and wires come into your home. 

As a temporary fix, you can use duct tape to seal cracks and crevices. However, repairs made with caulk, plaster, or cement are much better in the long term. Before sealing holes or crevices, insert steel or copper wool into the holes to prevent pests from coming into your home. Weatherstrip around outside doors and repair any torn window screens. Put drain screens over sink and tub drains. 

3. Reduce Clutter

Clutter can be items that you store and may not need like old newspapers, cardboard boxes, old shoes. Clutter gives pests a hiding place and nesting material. It also makes cleaning more challenging, leading to an increased food supply for pests. We recommend getting rid of clutter to avoid pest problems.  

For more specific de-cluttering tips, check our fact sheet.  

4. Store Items Properly

Throw out items you don’t need and organize your belongings. Try to store things several inches off the floor, so that you can see and clean around them. Try to minimize carboard storage as pests love to hide in it. 

5. Clean Thoroughly

A vacuum, bucket, mop, and scouring pad are the tools to help you get rid of pests. Use them on a regular basis to remove any food sources like crumbs, and any droppings or markings that pests may leave behind. Clean under the refrigerator, oven, and kitchen sink first and often. 

We also encourage you to vacuum under furniture and in corners where roaches could hide. In many cases, deceased roaches disintegrate into dust, which can trigger asthma.  

6. Deny Pests Water

Use buckets to collect water from leaky pipes or faucets and empty them regularly.  Hang up damp towels, rags, and mops to dry. Run bathroom fans to increase the evaporation of water after a shower or bath. Mop up any pooled water. Seek permanent repairs for leaks or flooding. 

7. Deny Pests Food

Keep food in sealed containers to prevent pests from accessing it. Use sturdy containers with a lid when possible. Reseal open bags of breakfast cereal, chips, crackers, cookies, and other foods with a clothespin or chip clip. Clean up crumbs and spills promptly. Wash dirty dishes immediately or at least leave them to soak in soapy water until you can wash them. Keep a lid on the garbage and empty it regularly. Don’t leave pet food out overnight. 

8. Be Persistent and Consistent

Good pest control takes time. If you notice a pest, act immediately and take some time to see what happens. If you’re still seeing the pest, try another strategy. Don’t feel discouraged if you can’t find an overnight solution. If in doubt, call an expert.  

9. Using Pest Baits

Pest Baits are a type of pesticide that pests eat, causing them to perish. They are designed to attract pests and minimize human exposure to pesticides. Examples of baits include “roach motels,” rodent bait stations, and gel baits that can be applied in cracks.  

Baits, like all pesticides, are dangerous and should be used selectively and with caution. Read and follow all product label instructions carefully. Only use baits formulated for the targeted pest and place them out of the reach of small children and pets. Baits are best used when combined with the steps outlined above, and you can find them at most hardware stores.

10. Know What to Expect from Your Pest Control Company

While the above steps provide ways for you to get rid of pests, you may need to contact a pest control company if all the previous efforts fail. If you have a company visit your home, make sure they can provide Integrated Pest Management services, do your research to ensure you’re working with a licenses company with trained technicians. Contact your state’s licensing agency to see if there have been any complaints against the company. In Illinois, contact the Illinois Department of Public Health at 217-782-5830.  

For more information about how to hire an effective IPM service, see our fact sheet.