If you’ve been wondering if you still need pest control in the winter, the short answer is… Yes! While many home pests won’t emerge again until spring, some pests continue to be a problem all year long. Continuing your pest control services in the winter ensures your home is protected and helps you prepare for the warmer months when pests are more prominent. Besides keeping your pest control services in the winter, there are also steps you can take to protect your home from critters seeking shelter in your home during the cold and rainy seasons.
Which Pests are Around All Year Long?
Unfortunately, some pests stick around no matter what time of year it is. And, some pests become even more of a problem when the weather turns colder because they’re seeking shelter from the elements. These pests tend to stick around no matter what time of year it is:
- Insects
- Fleas
- Powder Post Beetles
- Pantry Moths
- Drain Flies
- Grain Beetles
- Bed Bugs
- Carpet Beetles
- Cockroaches
Pests such as mice and other rodents may also become more of a problem in the winter as they seek shelter indoors from the cold and rain.
How Do I Prepare My Home for Pest Control in the Winter?
Although pest control services will be the best preparation you can take to keep bugs and rodents out of your home, there are some additional steps you can take to keep your home pest free.
Prevent entry into your home
This may sound simple, but it’s one of the best ways to prevent pests from entering your home. Seal any cracks, holes, or any other openings into your home that pests can sneak through.
Make your food storage airtight
Store your food in airtight containers, and always make sure that opened bags and boxes are sealed tight. If you have a rodent problem, you’ll want to avoid cardboard containers or any other materials that rodents can easily chew through.
Schedule your pet’s feeding times
Leaving out food and water for your pets is convenient; however, it also acts as an easily accessible food and water source for pests. If you don’t want to do a full feeding schedule for your pets, at least put away food and water at night time so pests can’t access it.
Be on top of your home’s maintenance
Keeping your home clean is the number one deterrent for insect pests. A clean home means there is no food or water source to attract pests. You can do simple things like keeping your dishes from soaking in water, which attracts roaches, or washing your sheets on the highest setting to prevent bed bugs. Things like vacuuming your carpets and around your bed will also prevent carpet beetles and bed bugs.
Outdoor and structural maintenance is also important. Doing things like monitoring your pipes for leaks will prevent bugs from entering through your pipes and having a water source. Keeping your plants trimmed away from your home will also prevent bugs from easy entry into your home.
When to Reach Out to a Professional
You don’t have to wait to reach out to a professional for advice. Even if you don’t have an active pest problem, you can start pest control now to prevent one in the future. However, if you already have an infestation or just want more information on how to keep pests out of your home, feel free to reach out to a Classic Pest Pro professional.