Sometimes it is frustratingly easy for pests to enter our homes and wreak havoc on our lives. They manage to get in through places we never would have thought of. Central Virginia’s hot and muggy summer has kept them really happy outside for a while, but the cooler Fall and Winter weather will soon be here and the influx of pests will be looking for a way IN. Luckily, the pest control experts at Holistic Pest Solutions made a list of helpful AND easy pest control tips to keeping your home pest-free.
Clean Your Gutters
Your gutters should be cleaned regularly, especially after a rainstorm. Gutters are the perfect place for pests to multiply because they contain plant material, debris, and still water. All three of these things mixed together make a perfect recipe for mosquitos, rats, and bees.
Keep Pets Clean And Brushed
Our furry friends might accidentally bring all sorts of nasty pests into our homes. Cats and dogs often bring in ticks, fleas, and mites into your home; which can then spread to furniture, clothing, and other members of your family. Keep your pets protected from those with vet recommended preventative methods and try to keep your pets cleaned and brushed.
See also Expect Fall Pests
Keep Your Food Contained
You might think that if your food is in its box or bag, it’s safe from pests. Pests, like mice and rats, can chew through paper and cardboard; so make sure your food is safely kept in plastic or glass containers. This will also keep pests from picking up the smell of your food. Keep your kitchen clean. Pests are attracted to any crumbs left on the floor, not just the food in your pantry. Make sure you vacuum and clean any spilled food in your kitchen immediately. Lastly, make sure you check produce and other fresh foods you buy from the supermarket before bringing them inside. Pests could have contaminated these foods and could still be living inside the food.
Fill Any Outdoor Openings
Try to fill in any gaps in your doors, windows, floors, and walls. Even the tiniest crack can be a perfect entry point for a number of creepy crawlies. Caulking is an easy and inexpensive product to help you seal any cracks in your home. To ensure that no pests are making their way into your home, make sure vents and covers are correctly installed and working. This could be another way for unwanted pests to enter your home.
See also 6 Helpful Pest Control Tips
Trim Trees And Bushes
If you have plants on your property such as trees, flowers, and bushes, make sure they are well-kept and trimmed. If plants grow too close to your home, it would be easy for pests to crawl from them onto the sides of your house. Also, if leaves or brush have gathered along your home’s foundation, that could easily be an attractive place for all sorts of pests to gather and multiply because it will hold and contain moisture. Try to prevent that from gathering by raking or leaf blowing when necessary.
CONTACT Holistic Pest Solutions for more tips to keeping your home pest free or give us a call at 434 842 1700. Whether you’re in Charlottesville, Waynesboro, or close by to either, Holistic Pest Solutions has the perfect plan that is mindful of our clients AND our Earth.
*Our Environmental Commitment: Holistic Pest Solutions is committed to the preservation of our environment. Our goal is to nurture the soils and plant life of lawns and landscapes. Utilizing holistic pest control practices that cause the least amount of impact on the environment.
