When pests invade your home, it’s easy to fall back on advice from friends, family, or the internet. But not all information floating around is accurate. In fact, believing in some common pest control myths can make the problem worse, or even put your home and health at risk. At Hopper Termite and Pest Control, we’ve seen firsthand how misinformation can delay proper treatment and lead to larger infestations.
To help you separate fact from fiction, we’re debunking the top five pest control myths homeowners in Arkansas should stop believing.
Myth #1: If You Don’t See Pests, You Don’t Have a Problem
This is one of the most dangerous pest control myths out there. Just because you don’t spot bugs or rodents doesn’t mean your home is pest-free. Many pests are nocturnal, nesting behind walls, under floors, or in attics where they can go undetected for weeks or months.
Rodents can sneak through holes the size of a dime. Termites can chew through wood without making a sound. Cockroaches hide in tight cracks and only come out when it’s quiet and dark. By the time you see visible signs, the infestation may already be advanced.
Pro Tip: Schedule regular inspections with a professional even if you don’t see signs of pests. Preventive treatment is far easier (and cheaper) than fighting a full-blown infestation.
Myth #2: Store-Bought Sprays Work Just as Well as Professional Treatments
It’s tempting to grab a can of bug spray and take matters into your own hands. And while over-the-counter products may kill a few visible insects, they rarely eliminate the source of the problem.
Most pests, including ants, roaches, and bed bugs, build nests or colonies that are hidden away. Spray products only target the pests you can see, leaving the rest to regroup and return. Not only that, but some treatments can backfire. For example, misused ant bait can cause colonies to split and multiply, a behavior called budding. That’s one of the most frustrating pest control myths because it makes people feel they’re saving money, only to spend more later.
Pro Tip: Professional pest control services are designed to break the life cycle of pests, kill hidden nests, and prevent future problems. The difference in results is night and day.
Myth #3: Ultrasonic Repellents Are a Reliable Solution
We hear this one a lot from customers who’ve tried everything else: “I bought one of those ultrasonic pest repellents and plugged it into every outlet.” Unfortunately, this is one of those pest control myths that’s rooted more in marketing than science. Ultrasonic devices claim to emit frequencies that drive pests away, but there’s little peer-reviewed research to support their effectiveness. Some rodents or insects may temporarily change their behavior, but they usually adapt quickly and return.
Pro Tip: Don’t rely on gimmicky gadgets. Trust proven, science-based pest control strategies for lasting results.
Myth #4: Pets Will Keep Pests Away
It’s a nice thought, your dog or cat chasing away rats or mice, but this is another common pest control myth. While pets may occasionally catch a mouse or bark at a raccoon, they’re not a substitute for pest control. In fact, pets can attract pests if their food or waste isn’t properly managed. Open pet food containers, dirty litter boxes, or outdoor bowls can invite ants, flies, rodents, and even cockroaches into your home.
Pro Tip: Keep pet areas clean, store food in sealed containers, and don’t assume your furry friend is your pest solution.
Myth #5: Once You Treat a Pest Problem, It’s Gone for Good
This myth is one of the most harmful because it creates a false sense of security. Pest control is not a one-time fix, it’s more of an ongoing process. Even after a successful treatment, new pests can find their way in through cracks, weather changes, or landscaping shifts. Arkansas’s climate makes it especially easy for pests to reenter homes year-round. That’s why professional pest control isn’t just about elimination, it’s about prevention.
Pro Tip: Schedule seasonal or quarterly treatments to keep pests from coming back. Prevention is key, especially with pests like ants, termites, and spiders that thrive in Arkansas environments.
Why Believing Pest Control Myths Can Cost You
Falling for pest control myths doesn’t just waste time, it can lead to:
- Property damage from termites, rodents, or carpenter ants
- Increased health risks from pests carrying disease or triggering allergies
- Higher long-term costs due to ineffective DIY treatments
- Worsening infestations that require more intensive treatment
Professional pest control companies like Hopper Termite and Pest Control don’t just react to visible pests, we investigate, identify, and treat the root of the issue. We combine experience with modern techniques to offer long-lasting protection for your home or business.
What to Do If You Suspect a Pest Problem
Don’t wait for visible pests to confirm a problem. At the first sign, or even suspicion, of pests, reach out to a licensed professional. Whether it’s scratching sounds in the attic, droppings in the pantry, or mud tubes along your foundation, quick action makes a big difference.
Our team at Hopper Termite and Pest Control offers full-service solutions for pests common in Arkansas, including:
Termites
- Ants
- Cockroaches
- Spiders
- Rodents
- Bed bugs
- Mosquitoes
- Wildlife intrusions
We tailor our services to your specific pest situation, and we educate homeowners so you’re not misled by persistent pest control myths.
Trust Hopper Termite and Pest Control to Separate Fact from Fiction
At Hopper Termite and Pest Control, we’ve built our reputation on results, not rumors. Our technicians are licensed, trained, and experienced in tackling the pests that plague Arkansas homes every season of the year.
Don’t let pest control myths lead you down the wrong path. When in doubt, trust the professionals who know what works and why. We’re here to keep your home safe, pest-free, and protected for the long haul. Call our Springdale office at (479) 750-4070 or our Mountain Home office at (870) 425-4122 to schedule an inspection today. Because when it comes to pest control, the truth is your strongest defense.
