Britain is experiencing a significant increase in household pests, with residents reporting infestations of ants, wasps, maggots, and other insects. Experts attribute this surge to the current hot weather, which accelerates insect breeding cycles and drives them indoors in search of food, water, and shelter. Open windows also provide easy access for these unwelcome visitors.
"Summer is the peak season for many household pests," stated Paul Blackhurst, head of the technical academy at Rentokil Pest Control. "As temperatures rise, insects become more active, breeding cycles speed up and colonies begin to grow. That's why homeowners often notice an increase in pests, from ants and fruit flies in the kitchen to wasps in the garden during the warmer months."
Ants are particularly common during the summer, often attracted to kitchens by sugary foods. They seek out larders, countertops, cupboards, and areas around pet food for moisture and nutrition. To deter them, experts recommend wiping up crumbs and spills promptly, storing food in sealed containers, and sealing gaps around doors and windows. Persistent ant activity may indicate a nearby nest, which can be located under patios, in wall cavities, or foundations, potentially requiring professional intervention.
Wasps are also a common nuisance, with queen wasps emerging from hibernation in spring to build nests in sheltered locations like sheds and lofts. Sealing gaps around eaves and vents, and keeping sheds tidy can help prevent nest building. Removing active nests is not recommended due to the risk of aggression from the colony, and professional pest control is advised.
Fruit flies, though present year-round, multiply rapidly in warmer weather due to their shortened life cycle. They are drawn to ripening fruit, recycling bins, food waste, and kitchen drains. Preventing them involves discarding overripe fruit, rinsing recycling, cleaning bins and drains, and refrigerating soft fruits. Homemade traps using apple cider vinegar and dish soap can catch adult flies, but addressing the breeding source is crucial.
Fleas can also become a problem, with most of an infestation residing in carpets and soft furnishings rather than on pets. Regular flea treatment for pets is essential, but thorough cleaning and treatment of the home are necessary to eliminate eggs and larvae. Frequent vacuuming, especially around skirting boards and under furniture, along with washing pet bedding on hot cycles, is recommended. Dormant flea pupae can lead to recurring infestations, potentially requiring professional pest control.
Clothes moths, while active year-round, become more noticeable in summer as their reproductive cycle accelerates. They are attracted to natural fibers like wool and cashmere. Experts advise checking for holes in clothing, larvae, or cocoons in wardrobes. Storing clean clothes, vacuuming wardrobes, and washing or freezing affected items can help prevent infestations. Pheromone traps can monitor and reduce adult moth populations.
Flying ants, a winged reproductive stage of ordinary ants, suddenly appear in large numbers on warm, sunny days as part of their breeding cycle. While typically short-lived, sealing gaps around doors and windows can prevent them from entering homes. Persistent ant activity might signal an established nest nearby.
Maggots, the larvae of flies, can appear quickly in bins and food waste during warm weather, hatching within 24 hours of eggs being laid. Securely bagging food waste, keeping bin lids closed, cleaning spills, and storing bins in the shade can help prevent them. Pouring boiling water into bins can kill maggots, followed by cleaning with hot, soapy water. Persistent infestations may indicate a larger nearby breeding source requiring professional attention.