Crickets
House crickets chirp loudly and chew fabrics, especially in damp basements and garages.
Background & Behavior
(Gryllidae)
Also known for their familiar chirping, crickets are nocturnal insects that often enter homes seeking warmth and shelter. They feed on fabrics, paper, and even stored food. Their constant chirping can become annoying at night. While they rarely cause serious damage, large infestations can ruin clothing and upholstery.
DIY Approaches
- Reduce moisture with fans and dehumidifiers in crawl spaces.
- Seal gaps around garage doors with new weather stripping.
- Remove piles of cardboard and newspaper that offer hiding spots.
- Place sticky traps along foundation walls to intercept crickets.
- Mow lawn edges short to reduce habitat right against the house.
Professional Services
- Request targeted treatments around foundation shrubs and mulch beds.
- Have pest companies apply residual sprays in basements and utility rooms.
- Schedule exterior lighting audits to replace bright bulbs with yellow bug lights.
- Coordinate landscape grading services to divert water away from the foundation.
- Add quarterly pest management visits for recurring cricket invasions.
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