So, you finally called in the pros to get rid of those annoying pests, expecting instant relief—only to notice even more bugs crawling around your home. What gives? Before you start doubting whether pest control actually works, let’s break down why this happens (and why it’s actually a good thing).
It’s Part of the Process
When you hire a provider of pest control, the goal isn’t just to wipe out the bugs you see but to eliminate the entire infestation—including the ones hiding where you don’t see them. Pests are great at finding shelter in cracks, walls, basements, and attics. When professional treatments are applied, they disrupt those hiding spots, flushing pests out into the open.
Think of it like shaking a tree full of leaves—the leaves don’t disappear immediately; they scatter before settling. That’s exactly what’s happening with the bugs in your home. The treatment is working, but first, it needs to drive them out.
Pests Are Trying to Escape
Most professional treatments target pests at their source, whether it’s in your walls, under your floors, or outside near entry points. Once the chemicals or eco-friendly treatments take effect, pests become disoriented and start searching for a way out. That’s why you may suddenly notice more activity near windows, doors, or baseboards.
The good news? This increased movement is temporary. Within a few days, the majority of these bugs will either die off or leave your home completely. If you’re seeing them moving slower than usual or acting strangely, that’s another sign the treatment is doing its job.
Eggs Are Still Hatching
One key reason you might see more bugs after treatment? New ones are still hatching. Many pests, including cockroaches, ants, and spiders, lay eggs that are resistant to initial treatments. These eggs take time to hatch, and when they do, the newborn pests will emerge in search of food—right into the treated areas of your home.
Fortunately, most professional pest control plans include follow-up treatments to handle these late bloomers. If your service provider recommends a second visit in a few weeks, don’t skip it! That’s when they’ll target any newly hatched pests before they have a chance to reproduce.
Long-Term Prevention Is Key
Seeing a few extra bugs right after treatment is completely normal, but what about long-term results? To keep pests from making a comeback, it’s important to take preventative steps in your home.
Here’s what you can do to make the treatment even more effective:
- Keep food sealed – Store pantry items in airtight containers to avoid attracting pests.
- Eliminate moisture – Many pests, like cockroaches and ants, thrive in damp areas. Fix any leaks and use a dehumidifier if needed.
- Seal entry points – Check for small cracks around windows, doors, and foundations. A little caulk goes a long way in keeping pests out.
- Declutter your home – Pests love hiding in piles of clutter, so keeping things tidy can make your home less inviting.
The Bottom Line
If you’re seeing more bugs right after pest control, don’t panic—it’s all part of the process. The treatment is working, and soon, those pests will be gone for good. Give it some time, follow any recommendations from your pest control provider, and remember—temporary inconvenience leads to long-term relief!
If pests are still sticking around longer than expected, give Kirkland Pest Control via Bamboo a call. Our expert team is ready to keep your home pest-free with targeted treatments and ongoing prevention strategies. Let’s make sure those unwelcome guests stay gone!
