As a parent, your number one job is to keep your child safe and out of harm’s way. Unfortunately, household pests can put you and your family at risk without you even realizing it until it’s too late.
While no pest control products are 100 percent safe for babies, household pests pose a greater risk. Pests like cockroaches, deer mice, and mosquitoes are known to spread various bacteria and diseases that can be harmful to humans, especially small babies, children, and pets.
Here is everything you need to know about your pest control options as a parent, as well as helpful answers to some questions you may have.
Are There Any Baby-Safe Pest Control Products?
Before choosing a pest control product to use in your home, it is imperative that you find out which are baby-safe and which to avoid. Babies and young children are more prone to health complications than older kids and adults because their immunity is low.
When it comes to pest control products, many parents reach for more organic solutions as opposed to traditional insecticides, such as neem oil and diatomaceous earth. However, it is important to note that just because these products are considered natural solutions, it doesn’t mean they are 100 percent safe around babies and small children. Caution should still be used when introducing a new product into your home, especially regarding its application.
Pest Control Options as a Parent
Just because you have children doesn’t mean you have to welcome pests into your home. Several options for pest control are low-risk for babies and small children, including:
- Natural products like diatomaceous earth and neem oil
- Leaving the house during professional pest control treatment
- Keeping your home clean and clutter-free
- Maintaining good landscaping and water drainage outside your home
- Diffusing essential oils pests are known to hate (check with your child’s pediatrician first to make sure the oils you choose are safe for baby)
- Keeping garbage in sealed containers and away from the house
The Importance of Preventative Pest Control
Preventing pests from entering your home in the first place is always the best pest control solution, especially if you have small children. Keeping your house clean and well-organized, maintaining your lawn and outdoor shrubbery, and investing in regular professional pest management are all important ways to prevent pests. Practicing preventative pest control will significantly reduce your chances of encountering pests in the first place, so you and your family can maintain your peace of mind.
How Pest Control Plans Benefit Babies and Families
There are several reasons you want to keep pests away from your home, with the biggest reason being that many household pests carry diseases and bacteria that can be harmful to humans and pets. Investing in a routine pest control plan can be highly beneficial to you and your loved ones for a number of reasons.
A professional pest control plan from a trusted pest control expert can give you peace of mind that your home is protected from a variety of seasonal pests, including cockroaches, spiders, and rodents.
Your exterminator will first inspect your home to determine what pests you’re currently dealing with or, depending on the area you live in, what pests you’re at risk for.
Then, they will create a personalized plan of action designed to target any existing pests and keep them away for good, all while keeping your and your family’s safety in mind. This kind of preventative pest control plan can benefit homeowners everywhere and is one of the best investments you can make as a parent.
FAQs
Are essential oils safe for babies when used for pest control?
Diffusing essential oils around babies is considered safe when the baby is six months of age or older. However, it is recommended that you speak with your baby’s pediatrician to make sure any essential oils you plan on using are safe.
How can I keep pests away from my baby’s nursery without using chemicals?
The best chemical-free pest control method is to prevent pests from entering your home in the first place. You can keep pests out of your baby’s nursery and your home in general, including regularly taking out the trash, avoiding eating and drinking anywhere other than the kitchen or other designated dining areas, and keeping your home free of unnecessary clutter.
Are there any specific pest control methods recommended for baby play areas?
When it comes to keeping your baby’s play areas clean and free of pests, there are several things you can do. Most importantly, stay on top of cleaning the play area and avoid letting your child eat or drink there, as spilled drinks or crumbs from food can attract unwanted pests. You should also wash your baby’s toys regularly, as soft and hard toys can hold onto food crumbs and sticky liquid that attracts pests.