How To Get Rid Of The 7 Most Common Summer Pests

Daniel Mitchell in home living

6/14/25

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Summer is the season for open windows, backyard dinners, and warm nights. Unfortunately, it’s also when pests start showing up in full force. Whether it’s ants in the kitchen, mosquitoes in the yard, or fruit flies in the sink, they can wear your patience thin. The good news is most of these annoyances can be handled with a few smart habits and simple changes. Here’s a brief overview of how to deal with the most common summer invaders.

Ants

Ants usually appear in search of food or water, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Start by wiping surfaces with vinegar or soapy water to remove scent trails as soon as you start to spot ants marching around. Fix any leaks and keep food sealed tightly. Outside, sprinkle diatomaceous earth or use a natural bait trap near entry points. If ants keep coming back, follow their trail to find the colony and use targeted bait to eliminate it.

Mosquitoes

Still water is where mosquitoes breed, so check your yard for anything that holds rainwater. That includes buckets, plant saucers, and clogged gutters. Use mosquito dunks in birdbaths or ponds, anywhere you can’t simply ‘fix’ the still water. Citronella candles, fans, and well-placed repellents like oil of lemon eucalyptus can help too while spending active time outside. Keep grass trimmed and avoid being outdoors at dusk when mosquitoes are most active. In tough cases, consider professional yard treatment.

A closeup shot of a mosquito on a human's skin

Fruit Flies

These tiny pests show up fast and multiply even faster. Rinse fruit as soon as you bring it home and store ripe items in the fridge when possible. Clean drains with a mix of boiling water and vinegar to remove eggs (and get rid of any food in your pipes that might be attracting them). A dish of apple cider vinegar covered in plastic wrap with holes poked in it is a simple, effective trap that can clear fruit flies out in a number of days!

A closeup shot of drosophila on a slice of orange

Wasps

Wasps often settle under eaves, railings, or inside shed roofs. If you catch them early, spray nests using a pressurized wasp spray at night when they’re least active. For prevention, hang decoy nests in spring to discourage building near your home. Avoid leaving meat or sugary drinks outside for too long. If the nest is large or in a risky spot, it’s worth calling a professional to remove it safely.

Fleas and Ticks

These pests hitch a ride on pets and can spread quickly through your home. Use a vet-recommended flea and tick treatment regularly in warm months. Keep lawns cut short and avoid letting pets roam through tall grass or wooded areas. Or, if you do let them, be sure to check them thoroughly for ticks before returning home. Wash pet bedding weekly and vacuum carpets often. If you suspect an infestation, treat both your pet and home to stop the cycle fully.

Ticks on dog hair. Ticks sucking dog blood. Dangerous insect mite, encephalitis, lyme disease, borreliosis, infection concept

Roaches

Cockroaches love moisture and darkness. Always fix leaks under sinks and around appliances as soon as you can. Don’t leave dirty dishes overnight, and store dry goods in airtight containers. Boric acid, baking soda with sugar, or roach bait gels can be effective if used where roaches hide, like behind the fridge or under the stove. Deep clean and repeat treatments over time, as eggs can still hatch days after the fact.

Dead cockroach on floor, pest control concept

Spiders

Most spiders aren’t harmful, but they can still be unsettling and many don’t want them around if they can help it. Keep storage areas clear and vacuum corners regularly. Reduce outdoor lighting at night to not draw as many insects, which spiders feed on. Seal any cracks along windows and baseboards. For mild control, peppermint oil spray can help deter them, but if you’re seeing too many or suspect venomous species, consider a pest control visit for peace of mind.

A small black spider on the wood floors are posing threats.

Pest problems can feel overwhelming, especially when they pop up all at once as the weather gets warmer. But with a bit of preparation and quick action, most summer pests can be managed or even prevented entirely. With your space cleaned up and your home sealed tight, you can enjoy the season the way it was meant to be—without the bugs.