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	<title>DecoratingPhilly.com &#187; Pest Control</title>
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		<title>How to Prevent Bed Bugs in Hotels &#8211; 14 Steps You Can Take</title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/how-to-prevent-bed-bugs-in-hotels-14-steps-you-can-take/</link>
		<comments>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/how-to-prevent-bed-bugs-in-hotels-14-steps-you-can-take/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jun 2011 17:54:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bed bug control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bed bug hotels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bed bugs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bed bugs in hotels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[how do you get bed bugs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[prevent bed]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=1001</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Bed bugs in hotels have become a serious concern to travelers. If you have never had them, you can ensure you never get them in the future either. If you are diligent and pay attention to your surroundings, you can prevent them forever, even if you stay in a hotel. How to avoid bed bugs [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>Bed bugs in hotels have become a serious concern to travelers. If you have never had them, you can ensure you never get them in the future either. If you are diligent and pay attention to your surroundings, you can prevent them forever, even if you stay in a hotel.</P><br />
<P><U><STRONG>How to avoid bed bugs in hotels:</STRONG></U></P><br />
<P>Since bed bugs can easily attach themselves to your purse or clothing, I would avoid visiting any home or hotel that you know has them.</P><br />
<P>When you must travel, what can you do about bugs in hotels? You can&#8217;t be certain whether or not a hotel has them. You would have to use the same precautions as you would at home, and do the same kind of visual inspection. Sadly, bed bugs in hotels have become very common.</P><br />
<P>It would be prudent if, first of all, you would search online, by name, the hotels in the area where you will be staying. Search for reviews of hotels from former patrons. It&#8217;s not probable that a hotel would itself reveal it had a bed bug problem, therefore you should look for independent reviews.</P><br />
<P>Just because a hotel is not listed as having a bug problem, it doesn&#8217;t necessarily mean it is bug free. Travelers may bring them into a hotel within their clothing or luggage at any time.</P><br />
<P>How can you prevent getting bugs in hotels if you must stay in one? The way you can check for hotel bed bugs is to do a visual check of the bed linens and mattress. Seek out smears of blood or dried specks of dark brown or black. Those are the critter&#8217;s droppings.</P><br />
<P>Take action immediately if you see those common and obvious signs of infestation. You shouldn&#8217;t have to stay in a hotel with bugs, nor do you want to.</P><br />
<P>Check the headboard as well as the mattress. If close to the bed, dressers and night stands should also be checked. These insects like to hide in dark places, so drawers are a likely place to find them.</P><br />
<P>Report the problem to the front desk. Speak with a manager. He may not even be aware of the problem. It won&#8217;t necessarily help you to change rooms because they can easily spread from room to room. For your peace of mind, just leave and find another hotel without bed bugs.</P><br />
<P>A good idea in advance of traveling is to get information on several hotels in the area. Thus, if you find your hotel has bugs, perhaps the next one will be bug free. It&#8217;s best to plan ahead so that you have a choice between staying in a hotel with bed bugs and staying in one that does not. Have a list of hotels as a backup so you don&#8217;t feel pressured.</P><br />
<P>Take the following precautions even if you don&#8217;t see obvious signs of these insects in your hotel room. Avoiding them is far preferable than trying to get rid of them.</P><br />
<P>I would bring along a bug killer spray when traveling. I advocate only the use of non-toxic pest control products. Small travel size sprays are available for use in hotels and motels for getting rid of them.</P><br />
<P>Do not put your suitcases on the floor. Put them up on a dresser or bureau. If the hotel has supplied a luggage rack, be sure to use it. Neither should you put your purse or discarded clothing on the floor because bed bugs can climb onto them undetected. Your purse should be hung in the closet or off a shower rod if possible.</P><br />
<P>After undressing for the day, place the clothing you won&#8217;t be wearing again in plastic bags if possible. Use plastic bags that you can seal tightly. I have found that Hefty makes some extra large zip bags in which travelers may seal clothing for protection from bed bugs. This is so great! Like extra giant baggies, they are eleven gallon bags that zip shut, effectively sealing out bugs and giving you complete protection from them.</P><br />
<P>By using the Hefty bag you have contained any bugs you may not have known were in the hotel. When you return home it will be easy to put your clothes in the washer and then dry them on hot, just in case.</P><br />
<P>You may wish to be even more cautious about avoiding bed bugs in hotels, so when you remove and bag up your clothing, take it to a laundry mat the following day for a wash and dry. A laundry service is sometimes available at hotels. This procedure assures you that should you have unknowingly gotten bugs on your clothes from the hotel or motel, you will have contained and killed them.</P><br />
<P>You should always check your luggage prior to leaving. If I wanted to be super cautious, I&#8217;d use a non-toxic bug spray on my suitcase, inside and out. Please use only safe, natural bug sprays, thus avoiding contamination of your personal items with toxic pesticides. There are various types of bed bug travel sprays that are convenient and easy to use, as well as non-toxic.</P><br />
<P>I would rest easier using a product that states it is safe around pets and kids, such as Green Rest Easy Travel Spray. It comes in a twin pack of two ounces, perfect for carrying in your suitcase. Scented like cinnamon, it does not have a nasty chemical odor that toxic bug sprays do. At the end of this article you can find a link where you can purchase this spray.</P><br />
<P>Place your hanging clothing in dry cleaning bags in the closets if the hotel supplies them. Your clothing should be kept far away from the bed as possible, and off the carpets. Plan ahead and bring your own dry cleaning bags, thus protecting your clothing from hotel bed bugs.</P><br />
<P>Personally, I would undress in the bathroom and hang my clothing in the shower if possible, thus avoiding contact with the floor altogether. If you travel frequently, it would be a good idea to bring hangers along. If need be, then you can hang your clothes off the shower rack. As an extra precaution, bring your own clear plastic bags as well, and hang your clothes inside them.</P><br />
<P>If, to your horror, you return home from a trip where you stayed in a hotel and find that you have bed bugs in your suitcase, what will you do? You can throw your clothes in a dryer because heat will kill them. But, how do you eliminate bugs from your luggage?</P><br />
<P>Amazingly, something is available for this exact problem. It is the Pack Tite Portable Bed Bug Killing Heater Unit, designed expressly for this purpose.</P><br />
<P>From eggs to adult bugs, the PackTite Bed Bug Heater Killer will kill them all at any stage of development. There are no chemicals used, and you may set the timer for a heating time of up to six whole hours! I&#8217;m certain that&#8217;s enough to steam kill any bugs in your luggage.</P><br />
<P>Though this device may not be needed for the casual traveler, for someone who travels often, this may be necessary to avoid those hotel bed bugs.</P><br />
<P><U><STRONG>To summarize, following is a list of fourteen steps to prevent getting bed bugs in hotels:</STRONG></U></P><br />
<P>1. Check out the hotel online prior to leaving on your vacation to see if there have been complaints filed against it for bed bugs.</P><br />
<P>2. In the event that you need to change hotels, make a list of names, phone numbers, and directions to other hotels in the area.</P><br />
<P>3. Be sure to pack a non-toxic bug spray, and several large Hefty sealable bags.</P><br />
<P>4. Prior to putting your clothing in your suitcase, pack them inside the Hefty bags. Even if bugs manage to enter your suitcase, this ensures you won&#8217;t get them on your clothes.</P><br />
<P>5. Just in case you need them, pack extra hangers so you can hang your clothes in the shower.</P><br />
<P>6. If you suspect an infestation you may need to do an emergency wash, so be sure to pack some quarters and laundry detergent.</P><br />
<P>7. Only bring things you absolutely need into the hotel room.</P><br />
<P>8. When you arrive at your hotel or motel, do a visual inspection of your room before you even bring your bags inside. Be sure to check every place that hotel bed bugs can hide.</P><br />
<P>9. Using only non-toxic spray, keep bugs at bay by spraying your suitcase on the outside.</P><br />
<P>10. Bag up your purse if possible, and keep it and your luggage off the floor.</P><br />
<P>11. Do not put discarded clothing on the floor. If you won&#8217;t be wearing it again bag it up immediately, using a resealable Hefty bag.</P><br />
<P>12. Before you leave in the morning, wash yourself well with hot water.</P><br />
<P>13. Before returning your suitcase to your car, spray the outside again with the non-toxic spray.</P><br />
<P>14. When you arrive home, dump contents of all Hefty bags into a very hot wash, and dry on high heat. Before bringing your suitcase into the house, spray it again.</P><br />
<P>Now you know you took all possible precautions to prevent getting hotel bed bugs.</P><br />
<P>Check out my natural pest control website, and you&#8217;ll find all the products mentioned in this article and a link directly to a place to purchase them.</P><P>Donna believes in living a natural lifestyle with minimal use of chemicals. Whole, organic foods and natural remedies are part of her daily life to maintain good health. Donna only uses natural pest control methods and home-made, non-toxic cleaning products in her home to assure optimal health for her family and pets.</P><br />
<P>Check out her other articles on the dangers of pesticides.</P><br />
<P sizcache="2" sizset="87">For where you can find all the products listed in this article, please visit Donna&#8217;s natural pest control website, where you can find out how to <A href="http://repelpestsnaturally.com/all-about-bed-bugs/bed-bugs-in-hotels/" target=_new jQuery1307123567046="13">repel bed bugs in hotels</A>.</P></p>
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		<title>Termite and Pest Control</title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/termite-and-pest-control/</link>
		<comments>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/termite-and-pest-control/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 May 2011 21:11:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pest Control Raleigh]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Termite Treatment Raleigh]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=995</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Did you know that termites statistically affect every two out of three homes? That is a huge percentage for such a manageable problem. Termite and pest control services can help lower statistics and keep your home safe from damage. Termites are capable of destroying a home&#8217;s foundation. They live in swarming colonies that feed on [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>Did you know that termites statistically affect every two out of three homes? That is a huge percentage for such a manageable problem. Termite and pest control services can help lower statistics and keep your home safe from damage.</P><br />
<P>Termites are capable of destroying a home&#8217;s foundation. They live in swarming colonies that feed on and recycle things like wood and plastic. Although they play an important role in the eco system, they are definitely not wanted in or around your property. If they are left alone they can completely deteriorate the foundation of a building. In a case when you do have a building that is infested, you can control the problem by having the building sprayed with termiticides.</P><br />
<P>What do I mean by &#8220;pests?&#8221; Spiders, ants, and roaches are all examples of pests that may be in your building. One of the smartest ways to get rid of and avoid problems with pests is to have your house treated. There is a spectacular yearly treatment that can be done to prevent the invitation of pests. The treatment just takes a few hours and can be completed without having to evacuate the home. It proves to be an efficient solution because it attacks where the bugs are living and breeding. Bug companies often recommend the yearly service because they are confident in the results &#8211; going so far as to offer free re-treatments should any problems occur.</P><br />
<P>What causes problems with insects in the first place? A huge cause of insect invasion is actually the result of an even bigger problem &#8211; moisture. Many insects live in moist areas, not to mention moisture can cause mold problems. Mold and termites paired together is literally a building&#8217;s worst enemy. They have the power to completely deteriorate foundations and structures and make them an unsafe place to live. Another preventative technique that can be done to any home or business is moisture control. The same people that spray your home for termites can protect your home from moisture. Some buildings may need to install vapor barriers or vents that are temperature controlled.</P><br />
<P>Although newer buildings are often built with physical termite barriers, any building is susceptible for termites and pests. In order to avoid putting your foundation in jeopardy, consider getting your house treated once a year. Taking preventative steps to protecting your home is the only way to guarantee you are safe from bug problems.</P><P sizcache="2" sizset="65"><A href="http://www.aiotp.com/termitecontrol.html" target=_new jQuery1306185017109="13">Termite Treatment Raleigh</A></P><br />
<P sizcache="2" sizset="66"><A href="http://www.aiotp.com" target=_new jQuery1306185017109="14">Pest Control Raleigh</A>.</P></p>
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		<title>Mosquito Zappers &#8211; An Effective Way to Reduce the Mosquito Population</title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/mosquito-zappers-an-effective-way-to-reduce-the-mosquito-population/</link>
		<comments>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/mosquito-zappers-an-effective-way-to-reduce-the-mosquito-population/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:27:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[controlling mosquito]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mosquito control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mosquito zapper]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mosquito zappers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=959</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Mosquitoes swarming around can be very annoying especially at night when you already feel like relaxing. When you are desperate enough to find the best solution for those flying insects, you could realize how difficult it is to choose the most effective way. Sometimes, all we need is magic to make every mosquito around us [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>Mosquitoes swarming around can be very annoying especially at night when you already feel like relaxing. When you are desperate enough to find the best solution for those flying insects, you could realize how difficult it is to choose the most effective way. Sometimes, all we need is magic to make every mosquito around us disappear in an instant. But worry not because if you wish to resort to the quickest way of repelling insects, a mosquito zapper can be your solution to those pesky flies.</P><br />
<P>This battery-operated electric fly swatter can get rid of those mosquitoes in an instant. This type of mosquito control device is used to reduce the mosquito population especially in enclosed areas like living rooms, backyard patios and other indoor sites. This is also ideal for outdoor use as it is easy to use and very convenient. Although it produces unpleasant sound, this device can be very effective in electrocuting insects and other house flies. You might wonder how this type of device could actually kill those irritating pests. Well, this might just help.</P><br />
<P>Mosquito zappers attract mosquitoes through its ultraviolet light. Once drawn, it hits the electrified grid that is charged to a high voltage. This simple tool then zaps the mosquito with its electricity, vaporizing it instantly with its loud crack. Mosquito zappers, if fully charged, can even kill other small insects like spiders. This mosquito killer is also safe to use as it does not emit toxins unlike mosquito magnets.</P><br />
<P>This hand-held device is also easy to use. During the daytime, just turn on the power switch then press the hitting button until the indicator light powers up. Wield the device back and forth to make those flies touch the grid. For charging, all you have to do is plug the device into a wall socket until fully charged. Avoid overcharging as this may cause the batteries to explode. Since the mosquito zapper is charged with electricity, it is therefore advised to keep such device away from children.</P><br />
<P>Mosquito zappers were designed to look like a tennis racquet in order to provide a wider area where insects can make contact with the electrified grid. Also, this method of killing mosquitoes is very economical as it does not require high maintenance of the device and no replacement of parts, except for the batteries, since this killer device could last for a long time. Other types of mosquito zappers may work with batteries while others need to be plugged into wall sockets for them to be charged. This portable device is easy to clean and can work well for both indoor and outdoor. Although ranging from roughly $11 to $20, mosquito zappers are one of the most affordable electric mosquito control devices in the market. It does not only offer convenience but also affordability for consumers.</P><br />
<P>Since varieties of these insect killers were made available in the market, one should have all the options in choosing the best mosquito zapper. With its affordability and ease of use, everyone can now look for the most appropriate device that can cater our individual needs when it comes to mosquito problems.</P><P sizcache="2" sizset="67"><A href="http://www.mosquitocontrolguide.com/" target=_new jQuery1299867987343="13">Mosquito Zappers</A> is just one of the many effective mosquito control that you can utilize to stop the spread of mosquito related diseases. For a more detailed list of effective mosquito control guide, visit <A href="http://www.mosquitocontrolguide.com/" target=_new jQuery1299867987343="14">http://www.mosquitocontrolguide.com/</A>.</P></p>
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		<title>How to Deal With Perimeter Invaders</title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/how-to-deal-with-perimeter-invaders/</link>
		<comments>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/how-to-deal-with-perimeter-invaders/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 31 Oct 2010 17:23:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[aluminum gutters]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[aluminum rain gutters]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rain gutters]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=814</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Arthropods and other insects are known as occasional or perimeter invaders, since they usually enter a structure in large numbers, usually to look for resources. Occasional invaders can be a nuisance since most of them bite, damage plants or indoor furnishings such as fabric or wood, and some even secrete foul odors. These insects may [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>Arthropods and other insects are known as occasional or perimeter invaders, since they usually enter a structure in large numbers, usually to look for resources. Occasional invaders can be a nuisance since most of them bite, damage plants or indoor furnishings such as fabric or wood, and some even secrete foul odors. These insects may die in due time, but their carcasses can attract other pests. On rare occasions, there are people with very sensitive constitutions which develop allergic reactions to insects. If you want to spare yourself the trouble and unnecessary stress, proceed with insect control.</P><br />
<P>Occasional invaders such as arthropods or mites are usually found outdoors, however some may invade you indoors. One of the best methods of pest control in such cases is ensuring that the environment they have invaded will be as inhospitable for them as possible. Here are some steps to help be rid of these occasional invaders:</P><br />
<P>Exclusion &#8211; This is the first step of indoor pest control. The use of various materials such as cloth, caulk, or sealing agent to patch-up or cover cracks or gaps in certain areas of one&#8217;s home will prevent any possible entry point for the pests. Common entry points are usually around doors, windows, vents, cracks in the foundation walls, or in the utility lines, etc.</P><br />
<P>Habitat modification &#8211; This is the second step in quelling the infestation. Placing two to four foot thick barriers or inorganic material such as gravel, silt, or rock around the area will prevent invaders from impregnating the premises. It is important to use inorganic materials, since organic matter can be used as homes or probable habitats for these pests. Soil, bark, mulch, grass among others should not be used as barriers, since not only do they provide a good habitat for pests to multiply in, but they also supply them with much needed food and moisture. Cutting off any source of moisture is one good way to drive the occasional invaders away. Be sure to check if there are any leaks in your water lines or faucets which might be used as a source of moisture by the invading pests.</P><br />
<P>Mechanical Control &#8211; The third step for insect control, which should be applied when the invading number has grown to a significant amount. With the use of a vacuum cleaner, one can locate the invaders&#8217; hiding areas and suck them right out! Be sure to seal and dispose of the bags immediately after use. Do not reuse the vacuum bags. A good way to ensure that no pests survive or escape is to incinerate the bags containing the captured pests.</P><br />
<P>Chemical control &#8211; When every other method fails, chemical control procedures are your last line of defense. The common use of total-release aerosols called &#8216;foggers&#8217; or &#8216;bombs&#8217; might not be the best choice, since it might be unable to penetrate some hard-to-reach hiding spots. Pesticides are your best option if you are to ferret out these invaders. These pesticides are often applied onto nooks and crannies to enable penetration to wherever the pests may hide. However, this method is not effective for window frame, wall, or ceiling infestations. Perimeter treatments involve using wettable powder, microencapsulates, and concentrated suspension-type pesticides, which adhere more effectively and act quickly. However, since the use and handling of pesticides contain a hazard for poisoning or contamination, it is best to leave the job to pest service experts to ensure the greater safety of you and your family.</P><P sizcache="2" sizset="71">Learn more about Termites and how we can eliminate them. Contact us for more details about <A href="http://chetspest.com/Termites.html" target=_new jQuery1288545735369="14">Florida Pest Control</A></P></p>
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		<title>Pest Control &#8211; Knowing What To Ask To Get Rid Of The Creepy Crawlies</title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/pest-control-knowing-what-to-ask-to-get-rid-of-the-creepy-crawlies/</link>
		<comments>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/pest-control-knowing-what-to-ask-to-get-rid-of-the-creepy-crawlies/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Oct 2010 20:20:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pest control quincy ma]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=791</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Pest control companies that can be relied upon are not hard to locate. Just know what to ask for before hiring them. Is your home under siege from creepy cockroaches? These are some of the most unsightly and difficult pests to deal with, and also some of the most disease spreading. Unless you take pleasure [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>Pest control companies that can be relied upon are not hard to locate. Just know what to ask for before hiring them.</P><br />
<P>Is your home under siege from creepy cockroaches? These are some of the most unsightly and difficult pests to deal with, and also some of the most disease spreading. Unless you take pleasure in constantly stomping on as many as you see, your infestation will not go away. You need to employ the services of a topnotch pest control company to be rid of the problem completely. The following paragraphs contain recommendations on what to look for in the best insect removal business before hiring.</P><br />
<P>Just about every company in this field offer free estimates for potential customers. Be sure to voice any concerns you may have before signing any contracts or paying for anything. You would hate to pay for treatments without knowing any side effects they might have later on.</P><br />
<P>Most every company employs the use of chemicals that are only harmful towards the pests they are dealt towards. Nonetheless, any exterminator should be comfortable with answering any questions regarding the pesticides they use. Make sure it is a substance that will not cause any damage to your home&#8217;s surfaces, will not leave any odors, and will not be a problem for your pets, if you have any.</P><br />
<P>If you are concerned about any environmental ramifications, be sure to inquire about a pest control service&#8217;s green options. Many companies offer these for customers who are concerned. Most people take comfort knowing that there are not insecticides seeping into the groundwater in their area. Find out what the best method and most environmentally sound approach can be taken that will not conflict with any green ideals you might have.</P><br />
<P>Find out about the guarantees that the business has. Know if the exterminator will have to make more than one visit and if you will have pay for it. Before agreeing to any work, be sure that your cockroach problem will be resolved from one service charge. Many of these control services have promises to rid your house of pests for good, so make sure they honor this agreement. You do not want to pay for the assistance to a problem more than once.</P><br />
<P>Inquire as to whether the exterminator will stop by while you are at home or not. In regards to this type of question, ask about a company&#8217;s liability agreements. Upon signing a contract for roach treatments, you will want to know if the business will be responsible for any property damages that might occur during the extermination. Why pay to be rid of roaches only to end up paying for home repairs soon afterwards?</P><br />
<P>Free estimates from pest control services are great opportunities to ask about any special offers or discounts that might be available. Be as thorough as you can in describing your roach problem to the exterminators and point out all areas where the insects have been sighted. These agencies generally offer a wide range of techniques, so just find the best options for solutions to your infestation.</P><P sizcache="2" sizset="71"><A href="http://www.combatpest.com/" target=_new jQuery1287605957218="13">Pest control in Quincy MA</A> will get rid of your home&#8217;s tiniest residents. Learn more at <A href="http://www.combatpest.com/" target=_new jQuery1287605957218="14">http://www.combatpest.com/</A></P></p>
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		<title>Not Just in Beds, They Are Everywhere! Top Three Places Where Bedbugs Love to Stay</title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/not-just-in-beds-they-are-everywhere-top-three-places-where-bedbugs-love-to-stay/</link>
		<comments>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/not-just-in-beds-they-are-everywhere-top-three-places-where-bedbugs-love-to-stay/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 22 Aug 2010 21:50:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bed bugs love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bedbugs love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bedbugs ndash]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bugs love]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[three places]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[top three]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[top three places]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=660</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Bedbugs, in general, love staying in dark, moist places that are frequented by warm-blooded animals, especially humans. Aside from the home, bed bugs can also proliferate in places that we normally think as safe. First, bedbugs love to stay in seats in movie houses. Imagine sitting at that comfortable and sleek-looking recliner chair, watching your [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>Bedbugs, in general, love staying in dark, moist places that are frequented by warm-blooded animals, especially humans. Aside from the home, bed bugs can also proliferate in places that we normally think as safe.</P><br />
<P>First, bedbugs love to stay in seats in movie houses. Imagine sitting at that comfortable and sleek-looking recliner chair, watching your favorite movie, and then some random critter bites you. Bed bugs love to stay in movie houses that are not well-kept, especially those with seats that are made of fabric, and also on lounge chairs that have crevices where they can hide.</P><br />
<P>It is important to make sure that the cinemas that you frequently visit are diligently maintained by staff. Cinemas are more prone to bedbugs because of the sheer number of people who use them. Furthermore, since it is constantly dark inside, it is much easier for bedbugs to hide out of anyone&#8217;s sight.</P><br />
<P>Second, bedbugs love to stay in hotels and motels. When one goes out on a long journey, the primary consideration for a hotel or motel stopover is the price. Usually, we would choose the cheapest place so that we can save more money.</P><br />
<P>However, low-cost motels can afford to charge a small amount usually because their janitorial departments are not very active, or because they spend very little with regard to maintenance. Furthermore, this is also a place that people go to a lot, so that those who live in homes that are infested with bedbugs can accidentally bring bedbugs that cling on their clothes.</P><br />
<P>Lastly, bedbugs love to stay in rental cars. Cars are perfect for bedbugs &#8211; there are so many nooks and crannies that they can hide at. This is especially true for rental cars that are not frequently vacuumed and cleaned.</P><br />
<P>Before renting a car, make sure that you are dealing with a reputable car rental agency. This does not only avoid concerns with the paperwork, but also in avoiding diseases that can be caused by getting bitten by bedbugs.</P><P sizcache="2" sizset="65">Joseph hates bedbugs and his favorite ways to get rid of them are <A href="http://www.gardenharvestsupply.com/product/diatomaceous-earth-food-grade" target=_new jQuery1282513753129="14">diatomaceous earth</A> and <A href="http://www.gardenharvestsupply.com/product/nocdown-lll-insect-mosquito-and-snake-repellent-pint" target=_new jQuery1282513753129="15">cedar oil</A>!</P></p>
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		<title></title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/642/</link>
		<comments>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/642/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Aug 2010 17:41:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[humane mouse trap]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[humane rat trap]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[humane rat traps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[humane trap]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mouse trap]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rat trap]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rat traps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[trap]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=642</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Rats are the ultimately famous pests that one could ever think of. They can be so tiny but amass to thousands quickly or grow bigger than expected. Some can even be mistaken for a cat. Either way, these creatures are deemed as a nuisance. They are famous for causing damage to your woodwork at home, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>Rats are the ultimately famous pests that one could ever think of. They can be so tiny but amass to thousands quickly or grow bigger than expected. Some can even be mistaken for a cat. Either way, these creatures are deemed as a nuisance. They are famous for causing damage to your woodwork at home, eating boxed cereal and even destroying farm crops. They live in the sewers and carry serious diseases that could border on fatal. They do more harm than good. So if calling the pest control is your solution of choice, the most probable process of eliminating them is through killing. Chemical poisons are the most common. The use of rat poison is probably the most well known way to get rid of them, among others. But animal advocates have argued over the different options, stating that all of these are inhumane. Thinking of safer and more humane ways, people have come up with the idea of a humane rat trap.</P><br />
<P>No matter how irritating they are, rats still deserve to be treated the right way. While it may be true that all they do is pester humans, it is not a viable reason to justify killing them as a rightful thing to do. A humane rat trap was designed ironically to trap a very annoying animal in the most humane way possible &#8211; that is without taking the life out of it. Even the peanut butter and plaster of Paris balls are considered inhumane, because its end stage still results in a decomposing rat corpse.</P><br />
<P>The most common example of a humane rat trap is the tiny mouse cage specifically designed to lure and catch a rodent. Bait is placed inside and a one way door is provided. Once the furry little fellow crawls in, the door shuts and locks. But the rat would not wonder about it as it is too busy nibbling on its bait.</P><br />
<P>They say that this is the proper way to treat a pest. Trap them without hurting or killing them. Once they are trapped, they can be set free in an area that is far from your home. Setting them free in your backyard is like taking them for a walk in the park. They can easily come back due to their homing instincts. They are like Hansel and Gretel following the trail that they left when they got lost in the woods.</P><br />
<P>A humane rat trap would be your best option for a household invasion. Infestations involving a wider scope such as farms would probably need the expertise of a pest controller, which, unfortunately, utilizes ways that are apparently inhumane. Since their problem is more extensive, the aim is not just to kill a rat but to prevent them from further propagation because they can and they will breed. Farmhouses can just be the perfect spot for their breeding ground especially if left unkempt or abandoned, and setting up a humane trap could just be useless.</P><P sizcache="2" sizset="65">Using a <A href="http://humanerattrap.com/" target=_new jQuery1281721218090="14">humane rat trap</A> in and around your home is the most ethical way to catch these little critters. For mice, try using a cheap little <A href="http://humanerattrap.com/the-humane-mouse-trap-buyers-guide" target=_new jQuery1281721218090="15">humane mouse trap</A> to catch the mice and release them safe and sound outdoors.</P></p>
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		<title>The Best Way to Get Rid of Ants</title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/the-best-way-to-get-rid-of-ants/</link>
		<comments>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/the-best-way-to-get-rid-of-ants/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jul 2010 22:03:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ant bait]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[best method]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nest directly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pesticide traditional]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[single best]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[single best method]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[worker ants]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=544</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The ant queen must be killed in order to get rid of ants permanently. Since the queen is nearly always deep in the nest, unless you are treating the nest directly, the best solution is to use ant bait. Spraying haphazardly will almost never get rid of ants in fact, it can actually multiply the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>The ant queen must be killed in order to get rid of ants permanently. Since the queen is nearly always deep in the nest, unless you are treating the nest directly, the best solution is to use ant bait. Spraying haphazardly will almost never get rid of ants in fact, it can actually multiply the problem because some ant species will &#8220;bud&#8221; when stressed, which means that they will divide their colony.</P><br />
<P><STRONG>Inside</STRONG></P><br />
<P>Clean the area where ant are active to minimize them but more importantly, to make the bait their only food choice</P><br />
<P>Choose a gel or liquid ant bait for best results because the taste and texture of them is designed to be like ant&#8217;s natural food. Hard baits like that in stick on bait stations is often ignored by ants. Baits sold in toothpaste like tubes such as those sold by Maxforce and Combat work best and they are easy to use.</P><br />
<P>Apply small amounts of the bait in many areas as opposed to one or two large clumps. Place it where the ants have been seen eating, in their trails if trailing, where they have been seen walking and where they have been observed entering the area.</P><br />
<P>Be patient because ant bait works by allowing the worker ants to return to the nest before dying, but have faith, bait is second only to treating the ant nest directly for getting rid of ants.</P><br />
<P><STRONG>Outside</STRONG></P><br />
<P>Remove things that make your property attractive to ants. Start by eliminating clutter because it gives ants a place to hide. Pull back mulch from the foundation, or better, put a 1-2 foot layer of pea gravel between the mulch and your home. Keep the yard mowed and remove grass and leaf clutter. Eliminate water by repairing any plumbing leaks and filling low areas that collect rain water. Cut back trees, bushes, and other foliage so that it doesn&#8217;t contact your house.</P><br />
<P>Use a liquid pesticide (traditional or organic) as a drench poured directly on nests if they are found. This is the single best method to get rid of ants. If you cannot locate the nest, use gel bait placed around common entries such as windows, doors, plumbing and electrical areas and also completely around your home spaced 5-10 feet apart. Don&#8217;t just sling it around. Think like an ant. Place it along edges and in grooves where ants like to travel.</P><br />
<P>Once you are certain that the ants are no longer inside, spray a protective pesticide (traditional or organic) barrier completely around your home to prevent them from reentering the house.</P><P sizcache="1" sizset="65">A pest control technician turned freelance writer, Steve manages his website <A href="http://www.pricelesspestcontrol.com" target=_new jQuery1278021734641="13">http://www.pricelesspestcontrol.com</A> that provides expert advice on successfully doing your own pest control.</P></p>
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		<title>Flies, Buzz Off! A Guide to the Common Housefly</title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/flies-buzz-off-a-guide-to-the-common-housefly/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 10 Jun 2010 22:11:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[blow flies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[common housefly]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[house flies]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=488</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Throughout the majority of the world there are a variety of flies, each as large a nuisance as the last. House flies and blow flies are the most common; however the latrine fly, flesh fly and the stable fly provide extra cause for concern. Problems with flies are exacerbated during the summer months however as [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>Throughout the majority of the world there are a variety of flies, each as large a nuisance as the last. House flies and blow flies are the most common; however the latrine fly, flesh fly and the stable fly provide extra cause for concern.</P><br />
<P>Problems with flies are exacerbated during the summer months however as Blow Flies and House Flies tend to come into the home more during summer, annoying home owners. Business owners also need to control their exposure to flies during these months to protect their customers&#8217; hygiene and to cause them less discomfort whilst they are on the premises.</P><br />
<P>Flies breed in manure, household and business waste, and even mismanaged home compost heaps. This leaves every fly carrying disease causing-bacteria, including dysentery, diarrhoea, typhoid, and most commonly, food poisoning.</P><br />
<P>house flyIn short, fly control is important for the maintenance of sanitation and health. There are various types of treatment for the different types of flies. Typically Cluster Flies can be found in your home during the winter. They will use your attic spaces and other areas in your home to shelter, but typically will not reproduce there. The problem can be eliminated by chalking the entrances to the attic spaces, supplemented by the use of Insecticide which is readily available from mail order online stores. Conversely, house flies during the summer can be managed by screening entrances to your property which may be available to them, such as doors and windows. There are many nets available that will prevent flies from entering your property, however it will never be a precise science as the flies will live on.</P><br />
<P>Houseflies, as said, are the most common pests in and around family homes. They are a dark grey in colour, and can be any length between 1/2 &#8211; 1/3 inches long. The identification of a breed of housefly can be performed with the use of a basic magnifying glass. Houseflies have darker lines running over their thorax &#8211; the lower portion of their body, with some yellow colouring to differentiate them from Face Flies.</P><br />
<P>Generally if you have an extreme infestation, identification of the pest is more important, as the correct treatment can be applied.</P><br />
<P>Houseflies, over their life span of around three weeks, will travel around 1 mile from their egg site, where they lay their larvae (maggots). Houseflies are actually flies for between 2 &#8211; 50 days of their lifespan, but in this time lay many larvae, so there can be as many as 10 generations in one summer period. The houseflies will last only 2-3 days without food, but if it is plentiful in supply, the 50 day maximum can be reached. In areas that are heavily infested, flies will certainly lay their young within 100 yards of a source for the maggots to develop, such as household waste, spilled pet food, wasted vegetables, compost piles, human and pet excrement, as they need a warm damp environment generally given off by decomposition. Dry conditions are not preferable as the larvae and young flies cannot chew dry food, and are susceptible to desiccation. They liquefy food by regurgitating it before consumption. Towards the very end of the life cycle, as the fly becomes an &#8216;adult&#8217;, they do have the ability to consume solid foods, such as sugar.houseflylifecycle</P><br />
<P>To control any infestations, cleaning and removing all potential breeding areas is fundamental. Regular removal and covering household waste is the most obvious of all of the breeding grounds, as it is something that you have control over. Cleaning away all spillages of meat, vegetables or pet food will also provide less opportunity for flies to breed. Further to this, refrain from putting meat or manure on compost heaps as this would make them perfect breeding grounds.</P><br />
<P>Houseflies will spend the daylight hours resting inside if possible; however they will also rest outside if they cannot find a building that they can access. You are likely to find them hanging on ceilings and walls, and on dangling light cords and cables. Outside, they can be found on plants, bins, edges of buildings and plants. They prefer to be on corners or curved edges so that they can take advantage of their wide peripheral vision.</P><br />
<P>They will rest from 5 feet upwards off of the ground, so it is important to look up whilst trying to identify their location. This is especially important when looking for sites to spray with insecticide.</P><br />
<P>Safe eradication comes with responsible use of insecticides. By looking around your property you will be able to identify if the infestation source is within your boundary. If there are only a few flies around, it is possible that the adjoining building is causing the nuisance. If this is the case, it is still effective to watch for resting spaces and to spray them with the insecticide. Residual sprays can be effective in these situations. These can also be used for short term repellents of flies, i.e. during picnics. In outdoor areas, few other methods have very high proven success rates. Fly baits, small trays of insecticide, can be purchased and placed around garden areas.</P><br />
<P>Resin strips can be used either indoors or in certain outdoor conditions, such as under bin lids, where there is no clear way out for the flies.</P><br />
<P>If however the problem is not on your property, seek the assistance and cooperation of the person who&#8217;s causing the issue. If this is not possible, your local council or state health office should be able to assist you in the removal of a persistent problem.</P><br />
<P>As a rule of thumb, insecticide and bait should be renewed after 2 &#8211; 4 weeks of spraying them during the summer months, and can be reapplied sooner if there is a high amount of rain, which can wash residual spray away. If the controls are all not put in place at the same time, or are poorly managed or neglected, treatment may be wasted and can be quite costly to go through many cycles.</P><br />
<P>For indoor controls, fine net screens are the most cost effective method of treatment, however fly swats, repellent sprays and insecticides will work better indoors, but only if it is safe to do so.</P><br />
<P>Electric fly &#8216;zappers&#8217; are the final method of reducing the amount of flies inside, and these can be seen in many takeaways and supermarkets. These are however mainly used in commercial applications.</P><P sizcache="1" sizset="85">Dane N Cross is a specialist in pest control. Find out more about <A href="http://www.hygienesuppliesdirect.com/cat/pest_control" target=_new jQuery1276207794750="11">preventing pests</A>.</P></p>
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		<title>The Transonic Pest Repeller</title>
		<link>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/the-transonic-pest-repeller/</link>
		<comments>http://decoratingphilly.com/pest-control/the-transonic-pest-repeller/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 May 2010 00:13:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Philly Decorator</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Pest Control]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[transonic pest repeller]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://decoratingphilly.com/?p=441</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Purchasing the Transonic Pest Repeller will ensure that you get rid of stubborn pests that have invaded your garden. These pests and rodents usually cause a lot of damage to your property like furniture and you end up incurring many repair costs. They also make your veranda dirty and you waste money trying to clean [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><P>Purchasing the Transonic Pest Repeller will ensure that you get rid of stubborn pests that have invaded your garden. These pests and rodents usually cause a lot of damage to your property like furniture and you end up incurring many repair costs. They also make your veranda dirty and you waste money trying to clean up if you do not have the time to do it yourself.</P><br />
<P>This gadget makes use of the latest ultrasonic technology in the market to emit waves and sounds that will make the animal rodents run away to different locations. The waves do not affect the normal human being and are only meant for the pests. The sound is usually a bit loud but it cannot be heard when you are inside the house. It is powered by batteries that you can usually replace once they are finished and also has an option of using the adapter that is if you intend to use electricity with it. You can also be able to use solar power for it to function by the use of the same adapter. The batteries are purchased separately as a different unit.</P><br />
<P>The other thing about the Transonic Pro Pest repeller is that it has an adjustable volume that will control the frequencies that it emits. This means that in case some of the animal rodents and other pests are not deterred by a certain level of frequency then what you do is increase it so that they feel the sound and run away. This also allows you to use it indoors to get rid of other smaller insects in the house like roaches, mice and ants by turning the volume level low.</P><br />
<P>It covers approximately an area of 5000 square feet and this is just about enough to take care of your garden. Being a one time purchase the Transonic Pest Repeller will be an investment that will save you lots of recurring repair and cleaning costs.</P><P sizcache="1" sizset="65">Get yourself a <A href="http://pestrepellerreview.blogspot.com/2010/04/transonic-pest-repeller.html" target=_new jQuery1274227932828="12">Transonic Pest Repeller</A> and get rid of animal pests in your garden. Read more about the <A href="http://pestrepellerreview.blogspot.com" target=_new jQuery1274227932828="13">Transonic Pro Repeller</A> and buy yourself one.</P></p>
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