You can tell the seasons are changing when the temperatures begin to dip, the leaves start to change colors and the pests begin showing up in your home. Yes, like many other living things, pests seek shelter from the cold, too. This can often mean you could discover a new infestation of bugs, rodents and insects making their way into your kitchen cabinets, basements, attics and anywhere else that would be a nuisance.
Even if you were to move away for the winter, you’d still be coming home to the pests. That is why it is best to take some proactive measures to prevent pests from invading your home. Of course, the number one preventive measure you can take is to contact experienced exterminators. Before the pros show up, you’ll want to put these tips into effect.
Make Sure Any Cracks Are Sealed
If pests are coming into your house, then they’re going to start looking for a way in at the foundation. Even the smallest of cracks can be a gateway for a wide variety of pests. You should conduct a thorough inspection of your foundation at least once a year. If you see a crack, then fill it. You’ll also want to check the entry points around plumbing and your electrical outlets. Those need to be sealed, too.
Make Smart Lighting Choices
There are many bugs that are attracted to certain kinds of lights. You can minimize the flying insects by only using your exterior lights only when needed. Also, consider swapping out the white bulbs for yellow ones. Those seem to keep the bugs at bay.
Make Sure To Use Your Window Screens
Obviously, when it gets colder you won’t be opening a lot of windows. However, you should always have screens on those windows. Those screens should also be intact. If there is a break, then the flying pests can make their way into your home before you know it. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure your weather stripping around the doors and windows isn’t damaged.
Make Sure You Keep Your Garbage Secure
Just because you throw out the trash, doesn’t mean it isn’t appetizing. Your garbage will attract all kinds of unwanted visitors. By keeping your garbage lids firmly closed and regularly washing out the bins, you’ll decrease the chances of a fly invasion.
In the inside of your home, you’ll want to make sure you’re picking up the clutter especially in areas like attics, basements and garages. Piles of loose clothing, papers or magazines make perfect nests for pests. If you need to keep any of those items, then get them into a bin. You also want to make sure the kitchen is clean every night. That means whipping down the counters and sweeping the floor. A ten-minute cleanup will go a long way towards cutting off the pest “buffet.”
Make Sure To Vacuum Often
Most folks are on a weekly vacuum schedule. That might be enough to keep things looking tidy but it might not be enough to keep the pests away. If you add another vacuum session to the week, then you can stay ahead of the game. Just be sure to empty the vacuum cleaner bag outside by the trash as often as you vacuum.
