Common Pests that Infest Your Home (and How to Deal with Them)

Whether you're in the quiet suburbs of Bentonville, Arkansas or the bustling neighborhoods of Springfield, Missouri, your home should be your safe haven—not a hub for unwanted pests. Unfortunately, insects and rodents are not just seasonal nuisances; they can be persistent invaders that damage property and jeopardize your health.

In this post, we’ll identify the most common household pests in the region, explain the risks they pose, and—most importantly—share how to deal with a pest infestation using both preventative steps and professional pest control solutions.

Why You Should Be Concerned About Household Pests

Ignoring a pest problem can be more than just annoying—it can be hazardous. Rodents, roaches, and other insects can carry disease, trigger allergies, and cause structural damage to your home. The sooner you detect and address a pest issue, the easier and cheaper it will be to eliminate.

1. Ants

Common in: Kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and around windows

Ants are among the most common pests found in homes, particularly in warmer months. While many are simply foragers in search of sugar or grease, some—like carpenter ants—can damage wood and compromise your home's structural integrity.

How to Deal with Ants:

• Seal cracks in walls, windows, and door frames.
• Keep food stored in airtight containers and clean up crumbs quickly.
• For recurring issues, professional pest control can identify and eliminate the colony source.

2. Cockroaches

Common in: Kitchens, laundry rooms, and dark, damp areas

Roaches are notorious for spreading bacteria and allergens. They're especially problematic in older buildings or homes with plumbing issues. If you see one, there are likely many more hiding nearby.

How to Deal with Cockroach Infestations:

• Reduce moisture by fixing leaks and using dehumidifiers.
• Keep all surfaces clean, especially at night when roaches are most active.
• Use bait traps or insect growth regulators (IGRs), but for full eradication, it’s best to call a professional pest control team.

3. Termites

Common in: Wooden structures, foundations, and crawl spaces

Termites are silent destroyers that can chew through your home’s framework without visible signs until significant damage is done. They're especially problematic in humid environments like those found in Arkansas and Missouri.

Warning Signs:

• Hollow-sounding wood
• Discarded wings near windows
• Mud tubes on exterior walls

How to Deal with Termites:

• Schedule annual inspections.
• Avoid wood-to-ground contact around your home.
• Call for professional pest control services at the first sign of termite activity—this is not a DIY job.

4. Rodents (Mice and Rats)

Common in: Attics, basements, kitchens, and behind appliances

Rodents can chew wires, ruin insulation, and spread disease. They breed rapidly, making early intervention critical.

How to Deal with a Rodent Infestation:

• Block entry points using steel wool or caulking.
• Eliminate food sources, especially pet food and garbage.
• Use traps as a temporary solution, but a professional pest control technician can help locate nests and prevent future intrusions.

5. Spiders

Common in: Corners, closets, basements, and garages

While most spiders are harmless and even beneficial in small numbers, some—like the brown recluse or black widow—pose a danger with their venomous bites. These are especially present in the Ozark region.

How to Handle Spiders:

• Reduce clutter and vacuum webs frequently.
• Seal cracks and gaps to prevent entry.
• Professional pest control is recommended if venomous species are identified.

6. Bed Bugs

Common in: Mattresses, furniture seams, baseboards

Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers and can spread quickly once inside a home. Their bites are itchy and often appear in clusters, and infestations are notoriously hard to eliminate.

How to Deal with Bed Bugs:

• Wash and dry all bedding at high temperatures.
• Vacuum regularly and use bed bug-proof mattress covers.
• Professional pest control treatment is essential to fully remove bed bugs, often requiring heat treatment or chemical solutions.

7. Wasps and Hornets

Common in: Roof eaves, trees, sheds, and wall voids

Stinging insects are a seasonal concern, especially in the summer. Aggressive species like yellow jackets and hornets can become dangerous, particularly for those with allergies.

How to Handle a Nest:

• Never try to remove a nest yourself, especially if it’s large or active.
• Keep trash bins sealed and sugary foods covered when outdoors.
• Trust a professional pest control expert with the safe removal and relocation or extermination of nests.

Preventative Tips for Homeowners

Here’s a quick checklist to help minimize your risk of a pest infestation:

• Seal entry points: Gaps in doors, windows, and foundations are open invitations to pests.
• Limit moisture: Use dehumidifiers and fix leaks promptly.
• Practice good hygiene: Clean floors, wipe surfaces, and take out the trash regularly.
• Store food properly: Both human and pet food should be kept sealed.
• Schedule routine inspections: Prevention is always cheaper than treatment.

When to Call the Professionals

While DIY solutions can help with minor issues, larger or persistent infestations require expert help. At Lotus Pest Control, we serve homes across Springfield, Missouri and Bentonville, Arkansas, offering effective, eco-conscious, and affordable pest management.

Our trained technicians know exactly how to deal with a pest infestation—no guesswork, no stress. We handle everything from termites to rodents with custom plans tailored to your home and your needs.

Don’t Let Pests Take Over—Call Lotus Pest Control Today

Your home should be your sanctuary. If pests are disrupting your comfort, health, or safety, it’s time to take action.

Contact Lotus Pest Control today for a free inspection and discover why homeowners in Springfield and Bentonville trust us for reliable, long-term solutions.

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