5 Common Pests College Students Face (And How to Avoid Them)

Action Termite | Jan 18, 2024

College life is an exciting journey filled with new experiences, academic challenges, and the thrill of independence. However, along with all the excitement, there can be some unwelcome roommates in the form of pests. Student housing, known for its close quarters and shared spaces, is particularly susceptible to certain infestations. In this article, we’ll explore five common pests that plague college students and provide practical solutions to prevent these pesky invaders from taking over your space.

1. Bed Bugs

The Culprit:

Bed bugs are notorious for hitchhiking their way into dorm rooms via luggage, clothing, and second-hand furniture. These small, reddish-brown insects feed on human blood, typically during the night, leaving behind itchy bites arranged in lines or clusters.

Prevention Tips:

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Inspect Second-Hand Items:

Before bringing used furniture or mattresses into your dorm, inspect them meticulously for any signs of bed bugs. Look for small, rust-colored spots on mattresses and seams.

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Use Protective Covers:

Consider investing in bed bug-proof mattress and pillow encasements, which can deter infestations by sealing off any entry points.

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Be Cautious While Traveling:

After returning from trips, inspect your luggage and wash all your clothing in hot water to kill any hitchhiking bugs.

2. Cockroaches

The Culprit:

Cockroaches are drawn to food, water, and shelter in a home. Their presence can trigger allergies and asthma, and they're known carriers of various pathogens.

Prevention Tips:

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Keep It Clean:

Maintain a clean environment by regularly vacuuming and wiping down surfaces. Pay attention to kitchen areas and ensure there are no food crumbs or spills.

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Seal Entry Points:

Use caulking to seal cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and around windows where cockroaches could enter.

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Proper Food Storage:

Store food in airtight containers to remove the temptation for these resilient pests.

3. Ants

The Culprit:

Ants can infiltrate dorm rooms through even the tiniest of openings, invading pantries and food storage areas. They are particularly attracted to sugary and greasy substances.

Prevention Tips:

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Seal Gaps:

Inspect and seal any cracks or gaps in walls, floors, and around windows and doors.

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Eliminate Food Sources:

Keep all food items sealed and clean up immediately after meals to eliminate potential food sources.

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Natural Deterrents:

Use natural deterrents like citrus peels or vinegar near entry points to repel ants.

4. Rodents

The Culprit:

Mice and rats can easily find their way into dorms seeking food and shelter. Their presence poses health risks as they can transmit diseases through their droppings.

Prevention Tips:

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Tidy Up:

Regularly clean your room to eliminate hiding places for rodents.

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Use Traps:

Set up traps in areas where you suspect rodent activity.

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Block Entrances:

Identify and block potential entry points with steel wool or other materials that rodents cannot chew through.

5. Flies

The Culprit:

Fruit flies and house flies are ubiquitous in college dorms. They are attracted by rotting food and waste, quickly multiplying if conditions are favorable.

Prevention Tips:

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Food Waste Management:

Dispose of food waste promptly and keep trash cans covered.

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Break Breeding Cycles:

Clean out drains and garbage disposals where flies might breed.

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Homemade Traps:

Use homemade traps with apple cider vinegar or wine to capture and eliminate flies.

When To Seek Professional Help

Despite your best efforts, pest infestations can sometimes become overwhelming. In such cases, turning to a professional pest control service like Action Termite can make all the difference. Their expertise can provide tailored solutions to effectively manage and prevent future pest problems, ensuring a pest-free college experience.

By arming yourself with knowledge and taking proactive steps, you can enjoy a comfortable, pest-free living environment throughout your college journey. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in keeping those unwelcome roommates at bay!