10 Common Household Pests
No one likes uninvited guests—especially when they have six legs and a taste for your kitchen! In the UK, certain pests are more than just a nuisance; they can damage property, spread disease, and trigger allergies. Whether you live in London, Kent, or Surrey, pest problems are a year-round concern. In this post, we’ll explore the most common household pests in the UK and what you can do to send them packing—for good.
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1. Rats and Mice
Rodents are the UK’s top pest offenders. Not only can they chew through electrical wiring and insulation, but they also pose serious health risks by spreading diseases like leptospirosis and salmonella.
How to get rid of them:
Block entry points using wire wool and sealant.
Keep food sealed and stored properly.
Use humane traps or consult a pest control specialist if infestation is severe.
2. Cockroaches
Often found in warm, damp spaces like kitchens and basements, cockroaches can be difficult to spot—until it’s too late. They carry bacteria and allergens that can lead to asthma and other respiratory problems.
How to get rid of them:
Clean up crumbs and spills immediately.
Use roach baits and gels in high-traffic areas.
Call in professionals to eliminate the colony entirely.
3. Ants
Black garden ants often make their way into UK homes during summer. While they’re not dangerous, their trails and nests can quickly become frustrating.
How to get rid of them:
Destroy scent trails with vinegar or citrus-based cleaners.
Locate and treat the nest directly.
Apply insecticide or call All Pests Gone for safe ant removal.
4. Wasps
Wasps are aggressive defenders of their nests, and their stings can be particularly dangerous for those with allergies. Nesting often starts in lofts, sheds, or wall cavities.
How to get rid of them:
Never attempt to remove a nest yourself.
Avoid disturbing areas where wasps are active.
Contact professional pest control services to safely remove nests.
5. Fleas
If you have pets, fleas may not be far behind. These blood-sucking parasites can infest carpets, bedding, and furniture.
How to get rid of them:
Treat your pets with vet-approved flea treatments.
Wash all bedding and vacuum thoroughly.
Consider a home fumigation treatment for severe cases.
6. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers and often enter homes via second-hand furniture or luggage. They’re notoriously hard to eliminate without professional help.
How to get rid of them:
Wash all bedding at 60°C or higher.
Vacuum mattresses and cracks in the bed frame.
Seek expert help from All Pests Gone to fully eradicate them.
7. Clothes Moths
Clothes moths thrive in dark wardrobes and feast on natural fibres like wool and silk. Before you know it, your favourite jumper could be riddled with holes.
How to get rid of them:
Store clothes in airtight containers.
Use cedar wood or mothballs as repellents.
Freeze infected items for a few days to kill larvae.
8. Silverfish
These tiny, silvery insects love damp conditions and feed on paper, glue, and fabrics. Though harmless, their presence can indicate underlying moisture problems.
How to get rid of them:
Fix leaky taps and improve ventilation.
Use traps and insecticide in affected areas.
Reduce humidity levels with a dehumidifier.
9. Spiders
Most UK spiders are harmless, but that doesn’t stop them from being a top pest concern—especially in autumn, when males venture indoors to mate.
How to get rid of them:
Seal cracks and windows.
Keep rooms clutter-free.
Use natural deterrents like peppermint oil.
10. House Flies
House flies are more than just annoying—they carry bacteria and contaminate food. They breed quickly and thrive in unsanitary conditions.
How to get rid of them:
Clean bins regularly and don’t leave food out.
Use fly screens and traps.
Ensure all entry points are sealed.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with pests can be overwhelming, especially when infestations grow out of control. While DIY solutions can be effective for minor issues, larger infestations usually require expert intervention. At All Pests Gone, we use safe, effective, and eco-friendly treatments to protect your home or business from unwanted invaders.
👉 Don’t wait for a pest problem to get worse. Book your inspection today with All Pests Gone and let the experts handle it.
Ready for your pest-free home? Call us today or fill out our quick online form—we’re here to help 24/7.
