The weather is cooling down, and for many homeowners, this can mean we’re seeing an uptick in the activity of pests inside our homes. There are many reasons you may begin to see common house small brown bugs wandering around your kitchen, basement, or bedroom during the fall and winter months, but how do you know which bugs you are dealing with and how to get rid of them?
If you’re dealing with a variety of common house small brown bugs, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re going to talk about the different types of house pests you may be dealing with as the weather cools down.
We are also going to talk about how to identify these different common house small brown bugs and how to get rid of them for good.
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So, What Are Common House Small Brown Bugs?
There are many different types of small brown bugs you might be seeing in your home as the weather cools down.
Common house small brown bugs is a broad phrase used to describe a variety of different insects you might run into as the weather cools down. These pests are often brown in color and can usually be found both inside and outside of homes, especially during the winter months.
As we mentioned, it is common for bugs to come into your home when the weather cools down. There are many different types of bugs that come inside, but they all have one thing in common: they are looking for food, water, and shelter. If you see bugs in your home, there is a good chance that you have some leaks or cracks in your home’s exterior that have allowed these pests inside.
For the most part, small brown bugs are not dangerous. Still, they can be annoying because they can leave behind stains on furniture and carpets. Some common house small brown bugs even leave behind lingering odors, while others contaminate food or water sources. In a few cases, some common house small brown bugs can spread bacteria that can lead to serious illnesses in people.
But why do bugs come into the home when the weather cools down?
Well, when it’s cold outside, many bugs like to seek out warmth and protection from the elements. They look for shelter in warm homes and buildings because it’s safer than being exposed to the cold wind, rain, and snow. Many common house small brown bugs are also drawn to light, so they enter homes through open windows and doors to get closer to a light source.
There are many types of insects that can be found around your home over the winter months. Some of them are harmless, while others can cause damage or spread disease if left untreated, which we’ll talk about further down. In order to manage common house small brown bugs, it’s important to first identify what you are dealing with.
Different types of pests may require different methods of removal or pest control to help get rid of them effectively. Luckily, there are several ways you can go about getting rid of common house small brown bugs, and we will tell you how. But for now, let’s talk about some common dangers associated with these annoying pests.
Are Common House Small Brown Bugs Dangerous?
Although most insects are not dangerous, some can worsen allergies and even asthma in certain people with sensitivities.
Most common house small brown bugs are not dangerous. However, some common house small brown bugs can spread bacteria that can be harmful to people and pets.
Some common illnesses spread by different common house small brown bugs include:
Salmonella – One of the most common foodborne illnesses that can be caused by pests is called Salmonella. Salmonella causes diarrhea, cramps, and fever, which typically last from one to four days. It can be more serious for children younger than five years old, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Pests can spread salmonella simply by collecting it on their bodies or feet and then walking through food or along surfaces where people eat.
Coli – E. Coli is a bacteria that can cause bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Just as with salmonella, E. Coli can be spread through transfer from pests crawling over food or surfaces like tables or counters where food is prepared. Most people recover within one week from E. Coli without treatment, but some develop a severe infection that requires hospitalization. E. coli is the most common cause of kidney failure in the United States.
Typhoid Fever – Typhoid fever is another illness that can be caused by common house small brown bugs. It is caused by a bacterium called Salmonella Typhi (S. typhi). It’s transmitted through contaminated food or water or by direct contact with an infected person’s feces (stool), or through cross-transfer from insects carrying the germs of the illness. The symptoms include fever as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius), abdominal pain, headache, malaise, and constipation or diarrhea. Severe cases may have a rash over much of the body, delirium, and other complications such as meningitis or hepatitis that require hospitalization.
Listeriosis – The bacterium Listeria monocytogenes is most commonly associated with raw food products, such as unpasteurized dairy products, hot dogs, soft cheeses, and deli meats. It can also be found in undercooked roast beef, turkey, and chicken. However, it may also be transmitted by insects including common house small brown bugs. If these bugs carry the bacteria on their bodies or feet, they can transmit it to foods that, when ingested, can cause serious illness to people.
And Dysentery – Dysentery refers to an intestinal infection characterized by bloody diarrhea and severe abdominal cramps. It usually lasts for several days or even weeks. There are two types: bacillary dysentery (caused by bacteria) and amoebic dysentery (caused by a parasite). Both types of dysentery will require medical treatment to cure them. Though rare, common house small brown bugs can spread the bacteria that cause dysentery to foods that humans eat. When this occurs, it is possible for people to become ill.
While the above list of illnesses that can be caused by common house small brown bugs does seem frightening, the good news is that these illnesses can be prevented with simple methods of pest control and removal.
In order to properly remove pests, however, it’s important to know which pests you are dealing with. Let’s take a look now at the most common house small brown bugs you might be dealing with so we can learn how to get rid of them for good.
The Most Common House Small Brown Bugs
Flies are some of the most common house bugs.
Common house small brown bugs are often found in homes. There are more than 100,000 types of small brown bugs, but only a few dozen species are common in residential areas.
Common house small brown bugs include a variety of pests like beetles, fly species and ants. These insects may also be referred to as pantry pests, food pests, or house bugs.
You can determine which type of common house small brown bugs are in your home by identifying the pest’s characteristics and by having a good understanding of which types of pests are most common in your specific region. The most common pests you are likely to be dealing with, depending on where you live, include:
- Cockroaches
- Bed Bugs
- Drugstore Beetles
- Weevils
- Carpet Beetles
- And Fruit Flies
While there are several methods and products that can work to get rid of common house small brown bugs as a whole, the best way to go about treating small brown bugs in your home is to know which pest you are dealing with and to use products and methods specifically targeted to that unique insect.
With that in mind, let’s talk now about the above individual common house small brown bugs you might be dealing with, and then we will go into different products and tips for how to get rid of them.
1. Cockroaches
Cockroaches can be dangerous because they can spread serious diseases.
Cockroaches are a type of insect that can be found in many homes throughout the United States. Depending on the species, roaches can grow up to three inches long, and they have been around for more than 300 million years.
Cockroaches are a major pest that you need to get rid of as soon as possible. They can spread disease and contaminate food supplies with their feces and saliva. Cockroaches also produce an unpleasant odor when they die, which can make your home smell bad even when there aren’t any living roaches present.
These insects come from the family Blattidae, which means they’re closely related to termites. There are over 4,000 types of cockroaches worldwide, but only about 30 of them are considered pests to humans. In North America, the most common type is the German cockroach (Blattella germanica).
Most roaches have flat bodies and long antennae that they use to feel around with when they’re looking for food or shelter.
Cockroaches are attracted to a number of things in your home. They will eat almost anything, from food crumbs to paper and glue. They are also attracted to warmth, moisture, and darkness.
To prevent roaches, clean up food crumbs and spills as soon as possible after eating. This is one of the most important things you can do to keep cockroaches away from your home. Make sure all garbage is taken out daily and that there is no standing water around the house or yard.
We also suggest you use bait, traps, or sprays for cockroaches that are already present in your home. This may not eliminate all of them right away, but it should help eliminate some of them which may reduce their numbers over time.
2. Bed Bugs
Bed bugs can be very difficult to get rid of.
Bed bugs are small, flat parasites that live in the blood of animals or humans. They have been around for centuries, but increased resistance to insecticides and a lack of public awareness have led to a resurgence in their populations. Bed bugs have no wings and cannot fly, but they can move quickly over floors, walls, and ceilings.
Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed (about 1/4 inch long). Their bodies are flattened and oval-shaped. Their color ranges from red-brown to dark brown or mahogany. The immature nymphs (which look like smaller versions of adults) are yellowish-white in color and usually develop through five molts before becoming adults.
Bed bugs do not transmit any diseases; however, they can cause itchy bites that may lead to secondary infections if scratched while they’re still fresh from feeding on blood. It is not uncommon for people to become allergic to bed bug bites after being bitten multiple times over several months or years. If you think you may have an allergy to bed bug bites, consult your physician for treatment options.
It’s a common misconception that bed bugs are attracted to dirty homes or that if you have bed bugs your home is unclean. In fact, any home can get bed bugs. Like mosquitoes, bed bugs are attracted to CO2, body heat, and movement (especially the rustling of fabric). When you move around in your bed, you release CO2 and create heat, which bed bugs love. Bed bugs like to hide close to where they eat, so they are often found in your bedding and mattress seams.
In order to remove bed bugs, there are a few methods you can use at home. However, these pests are difficult to get rid of on your own, so in conjunction with common pest control methods for getting rid of these common house small brown bugs, we also recommend that you call a professional pest control company for help.
It’s also best to wash all of your clothing in hot water and dry them in high heat. If you have any other infested items like stuffed animals, etc., throw those out or at least wash them in hot water.
3. Drugstore Beetles
Drugstore beetles get their name from their habit of feasting on drugs and foods from pharmacies.
Another type of common house small brown bugs you may be dealing with could be drugstore beetles. Drugstore beetles are small, oval-shaped beetles that can be found in drugstores and pharmacies. These pests are also known as Cloth and Drugstore Beetles, due to their tendency to infest clothing and other fabrics.
Drugstore beetles belong to the family of beetles called dermestids, which also includes larder beetles and hide beetles. The three species are difficult to tell apart, but they can usually be distinguished by the type of food source they prefer.
Drugstore beetles are small insects that measure between two and five millimeters in length (1/16th inch). They have a brownish-black wing cover with five spots on each wing; the spots are smaller on the female than on the male. The larvae (immature stage) look similar to adults but are smaller and wingless.
Although these creatures can damage clothing and other fabrics, they aren’t considered dangerous since they don’t bite or feed on living tissue like other types of common house small brown bugs do.
Drugstore beetles are attracted to wood and plants. They’re also known as thistles or merchant beetles. The name “drugstore beetle” comes from their destructive habits of feeding on drugs, perfume, and other goods that are kept in glass containers.
They also like to feed on dried animal hides such as leather shoes, gloves, and belts, processed animal products such as dried pork, ham or bacon, silk clothing, bird feathers, dead animals, dried fish, fur coats and hats, bird nests, woolen carpets and rugs, woolen blankets, and upholstered furniture.
To prevent drugstore beetles, keep areas around your home and yard clean. Clean up spills immediately so that food doesn’t become infested with drugstore beetles. Keep counters clear of dishes during meal preparation. Don’t leave dirty dishes overnight on the countertop and instead wash them right away! Wipe down kitchen cabinets regularly with hot soapy water to remove any leftover crumbs or residue from foods left behind.
4. Weevils
Weevils feast on grains and plant material and are common pantry pests.
Weevils are the most common type of beetle in the world. They are small, long-snouted beetles that have distinctive long antennae and long legs. There are several types of weevils, but they all look very similar.
Weevils can be found on every continent except Antarctica. They like warm climates and are often found in gardens and fields. Weevils feed on grains and plants, which makes them a pest for gardeners who want to grow healthy plants. In the home, weevils and their larvae feed on grains like cereal, pasta, and flour. Sometimes they can even be found in spices.
When it comes to what these common house small brown bugs look like, adult weevils are small, round beetles with long snouts. The adults are about 1/8 to 1/4 inch long and are brown or gray in color. The larvae are small white grubs.
These pests are not dangerous to people or pets. They don’t bite or sting and they aren’t venomous. They also don’t damage the wood of your home or furniture, however, they can cost money in food waste if they spread throughout your kitchen.
Weevils are attracted to food sources such as flour, cereals and other dry goods that contain starch, as we mentioned. They also tend to be attracted to anything sweet such as sugar and syrup products like maple syrup or honey.
To prevent these common house small brown bugs, try keeping all pantry items tightly sealed at all times. Vacuum any crumbs and take out your garbage often.
5. Carpet Beetles
The carpet beetle is a common beetle you may find in your home.
Carpet beetles are another type of common house small brown bugs you might come across. These small, brown insects eat natural fabrics like wool, silk, and fur. They do not eat synthetic fibers such as polyester or nylon. These pests can also be found in dried plant materials, such as cereals and flour. The larvae may live for several years before becoming adult beetle.
Carpet beetles are not dangerous to humans but can be a nuisance if they infest your home. If you notice these insects in your home, it’s important to eliminate them quickly so they don’t cause more damage to the fabric of your furniture or other belongings. Carpet beetles can also carry other diseases on their bodies when they move from one place to another, so it’s important to keep your home clean at all times.
The best way to get rid of carpet beetles is by using insecticide sprays or powders that kill these pests on contact. You should always use products that are labeled for use against this type of insect for the best results.
6. Fruit Flies
Fruit flies are highly attracted to fruit left out on your counter.
Fruit flies are small, winged insects that thrive in warm, moist environments. They’re closely related to vinegar flies and drain flies, which are also common pests in homes. Fruit flies are a nuisance, but they don’t bite or spread disease. They’re one of the most commonly reported household fly species in the U.S., but they’re less likely to be found in homes than other species like house flies or stable flies.
Since fruit flies are not considered an agricultural pest or health threat, there’s no need to worry about them spreading a disease or contaminating food. Their presence is more of a nuisance than anything else.
Fruit flies are about 1/8 inch long, with red eyes and four small wings. They have a yellow-brown body with darker stripes on their thorax. The adults live for about three weeks, while the larvae can live up to six months.
Although fruit flies are not dangerous, they can appear in large numbers inside your home. You should take care of them as soon as possible before they multiply by keeping your garbage can covered at all times with a lid or plastic bag. Refrain from leaving fruit on your counter or in a fruit bowl, store perishable foods appropriately, and consider installing fly traps around your home to eliminate them.
Best Products For Getting Rid Of Common House Small Brown Bugs
Diatomaceous Earth is an all-natural product that can be safe to use on a variety of pests in the home.
There are a few different types of products that you can use to get rid of common house small brown bugs, but the most common fall under two categories including either insecticides or natural products.
Insecticides are man-made chemicals that kill insects, but they can also be harmful to humans and pets. Natural products are made from plants, minerals, or animals and are usually safe for people and pets.
Choosing the best product for you when it comes to how to get rid of common house small brown bugs can be difficult, and you may find that you need to use a variety of products in conjunction with one another, especially if you have a large infestation of these pests.
We have listed a few different products below to help get rid of the most common house small brown bugs on our list for you to take a look at.
Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray
No products found.
Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray is a safe, effective, nontoxic solution for controlling pests in your home. The spray kills on contact and keeps working for up to 12 weeks. It’s safe for use around children and pets, so you don’t have to worry about them coming in contact with it.
Wondercide works on a variety of pests including spiders, fleas, and ticks. The active ingredients in Wondercide are derived from plants and are not harmful to humans or pets.
To use this product, apply a small amount of Wondercide Spray directly to areas you have noticed pest activity. When applied correctly, it can kill pests on contact and keep them from coming back for several weeks.
Okutani Ultrasonic Pest Repeller
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Okutani Ultrasonic Pest Repeller is a device that can be used to get rid of common house small brown bugs by emitting an ultrasonic sound that is not audible to humans but is extremely annoying to pests. You can use it in your home or office and it is easy to use.
Simply plug the device into an electrical outlet and turn it on. This product is perfectly safe to use in homes with children and pets and it will not harm the environment. It can help to repel a variety of common house small brown bugs including ants, spiders, roaches, moths, flies, and more.
Harris Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer
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Harris Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer is an all-natural, non-toxic and effective way to rid your home of crawling insects like roaches, ants, bed bugs, and spiders. It can be applied directly to insect-infested areas or in conjunction with a bait station.
This is an all-natural, non-toxic and effective way to rid your home of crawling insects like roaches, ants, and spiders. It can be applied directly to insect-infested areas or in conjunction with a bait station.
Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer
No products found.
Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer is a ready-to-use, broad-spectrum insect killer that kills on contact and prevents future infestations. It’s ideal for killing a wide range of household pests, including cockroaches, ants, fleas, ticks, and more. This product can be used around the home for effective control of common household pests.
This product does contain an insecticide that can be dangerous to people and pets if not used properly. Be sure to read the directions carefully and keep this product out of reach of children and pets.
Common House Small Brown Bugs – Tips For Preventing Them In The Future
Keeping pests out of your home means that you and your family will be living in a healthier environment.
Pests are common in homes, especially as the weather begins to cool down, and this is of course true for common house small brown bugs. If you’re dealing with these pests, you’re not alone.
Furthermore, there are plenty of methods and products you can use to help manage them and get rid of them.
Remember, in most cases, these common houses small brown bugs come into homes looking for shelter and protection from the cold elements outside. They get in through a vulnerability in your home’s siding, cracks, and crevices along walls, or even through open windows, gaps in doorways, or through vents.
If you’re looking for other ways to manage common house small brown bugs, we have some tips and tricks from our experts below.
- First, keep up with routine home maintenance
- Keep your home clean and tidy to prevent clutter and debris
- Store garbage properly and invest in a bin with a sealed lid
- Store pet food properly and put it away when it is not in use
- Store pantry food in airtight containers made of glass or plastic
- Vacuum and sweep often and after meals
- Do not leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight
- Clean up clutter and debris in your yard to avoid attracting outside pests that could become inside pests
- Use a form of pest control year-round
- And last, contact a professional pest control expert for help if your problem persists
Remember, while common house small brown bugs are a nuisance and can even be hazardous to your health, they are usually not dangerous and can be easily managed by implementing a few good habits and using quality pest control products.
Best of luck and thanks for reading!
Jack founded our blog after two decades of working in the pest control industry. His vast experience dealing with a wide array of pests allows him to diagnose issues quickly and get to the heart of pest problems quickly and effectively. He has serviced more than 2,000 homes over his career and there is hardly any pest situation that he has not seen before.