Do I Really Need Professional Pest Control or Can I DIY?
When pests invade your home, the first question many homeowners ask is: “Can I handle this myself?” While DIY pest control can work for minor issues, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons—especially if you have pets, children, or are concerned about harsh chemicals.
DIY Pest Control with Essential Oils
More people are turning to natural remedies, like essential oils, as a first line of defense. Here's how different scents can target specific pests:
Peppermint Oil – Great for repelling spiders, mice, and ants. A few drops mixed with water in a spray bottle can be used around entry points and baseboards.
Lavender Oil – Effective against moths, fleas, and mosquitoes. Bonus: it smells great and calms both humans and pets.
Lemongrass & Citronella – Known to deter mosquitoes and flies.
Tea Tree Oil – Has antifungal and antibacterial properties and works against lice, bed bugs, and roaches.
Eucalyptus Oil – Another mosquito repellent and also helpful for repelling wasps.
Why Essential Oils Are a Safer Choice
If you have dogs, cats, or children, essential oil-based treatments are non-toxic alternatives to traditional pesticides. However, some oils (like tea tree and eucalyptus) should still be used with caution around pets—so always dilute with water and keep them out of reach. Just to point out, peppermint is and can be toxic to most pets. So do your research and beware!
Prevention Starts at Home
Before sprays or traps, your first line of defense is keeping pests out in the first place:
Seal cracks, holes, and gaps around doors, windows, baseboards, and plumbing. Even tiny openings can be front doors for ants, roaches, and spiders.
Declutter your home. Piles of paper, boxes, or laundry make perfect hiding and breeding spots for pests.
Sweep up dead bugs. Dead flies and roaches attract even more pests looking to feed.
Stay on top of dishes and crumbs. Leftover food and dirty dishes are an open invitation to ants, roaches, and mice.
These small daily habits can stop an infestation before it starts.
The Limitations of DIY Methods
While essential oils and natural sprays can help, they often fall short for:
Large infestations (especially termites, roaches, or bed bugs)
Hard-to-reach nesting areas
Long-term prevention
You might solve the surface problem, but not eliminate the root cause.
When to Call in the Pros
If pests keep coming back, it's a sign that a professional approach is needed. That doesn't mean sacrificing safety—especially with RH Miller Pest Services.
Why RH Miller Pest Services is a Safer, Smarter Choice
We specialize in eco-friendly pest solutions that are:
Family-safe – No harmful fumes or harsh chemicals
Pet-friendly – Designed with your furry friends in mind
Effective – Targeted treatments for long-term protection
Whether you're concerned about health, safety, or just tired of trying to DIY, we’re here to help.