Where To Check For Ticks In Your Home

Ticks are tiny, bloodsucking critters that can spread dangerous diseases to humans and animals. Many people only think of ticks as an outdoor problem; however, they can also enter our homes especially when it is warm outside. Understanding where in your home these parasites hide is the key to avoiding infestations and protecting yourself and those you love from tick-borne illnesses. To help prevent such troubles, this article will cover three common hiding places for ticks inside our homes - near baseboards, around pet areas, and on curtains.

Baseboards

When seeking to locate ticks inside your home, the first area you should inspect is near baseboards. Baseboards are those long strips of wood or vinyl that line the seam between walls and floors - perfect for harboring small ticks looking for their next host. Utilizing a flashlight and magnifying glass, thoroughly examine the little cracks and crevices around these boards. If you notice any reddish-brown insects or black dots, they could be either tick larvae or droppings from them.

Pet Areas

The second place where ticks can be found inside homes is around pet areas. Ticks are attracted to the warmth and scent of pets, making pet areas, such as dog beds, cat trees, and litter boxes, prime hiding spots for ticks. To prevent ticks from infesting your pet's area, regularly clean and vacuum the area, and wash your pet's bedding frequently. Also, consider treating your pets with tick preventatives to keep them from bringing ticks into your home. If you find any ticks on your pet, the first thing to do is stay calm and don't panic! You can use tweezers to remove them carefully, making sure not to squeeze their bodies as this can release harmful bacteria into the wound. Talk to your vet if you are regularly finding ticks on your pet.

Curtains

The third place where ticks may hide inside homes is on curtains. Ticks are excellent climbers and can easily climb curtains to find a host. Curtains near windows or doors that lead to outdoor areas are particularly vulnerable to tick infestations. To check for ticks on curtains, run your hand along the fabric, feeling for any small bumps that may be ticks. Also, inspect the folds and seams of the curtains, where ticks like to hide. To prevent tick infestations on curtains, consider using tick repellent sprays, and keep the curtains clean and washed regularly.

Ticks can pose a serious health risk if they infest your home. Consequently, it is essential to be aware of where ticks commonly hide inside homes in order to take the necessary precautions and prevent an infestation. In addition to the three places mentioned below, ticks may also hide in other areas such as carpets, upholstered furniture, and cluttered spaces. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain cleanliness and regularly inspect your home for any signs of ticks. If you suspect a tick infestation in your home, contact a pest control professional for assistance.

For more information on the smaller pests that might get into your house and what to do about them, check out this blog post here!