Wintertime Pest Control Tips

Homeowners should be aware there are various types of pests which can attempt to enter their homes during the winter.  Fortunately there are a variety of things you can do to keep them outside.  Here are a few wintertime pest control tips which will be helpful in your efforts.

The most important thing you need to do is limit a potential source of food for the pests.  They will need food to survive and will stay out of your home if there is not any food available.  It is important for you to keep all food stored away properly.  Keeping grains, flour, and cereal in airtight containers will keep them from being drawn to the smell.

It is also a good idea to clean your home on a regular basis.  This will keep food crumbs off the floor and also get rid of other debris they may be attracted to.  You especially need to keep your pantry, kitchen, bathroom, and living room area as clean as possible.

Another thing you will need to do for wintertime pest control is to seal all entrances to your home.  If there is a gap beneath the exterior doors, all sorts of insects can simply crawl right in.  Installing door sweeps on all exterior doors will help keep them out. 

If you have screens on your windows, you will need to make sure they have not been damaged.  There should also be screens on any vents around your home as well as the chimney opening.  Make sure there are no gaps on the exterior of your home rodents and pests can use to enter.  Check around siding, doors, pipes, and windows.

Plenty of homeowners keep mulch or potting soil around their home.  Unfortunately, this can provide an ideal habitat for all sorts of pests such as cockroaches and spiders.  It is best for you to keep mulch and soil as far away from your home as possible.

You should also consider keeping firewood far away from your home.  Pests will make a home there too, and can eventually make their way inside your residence if it is too close.  You should also keep your firewood stored off the ground.

Plant enthusiasts typically bring fragile plants inside during the winter months.  Make sure you check each one thorough before you do.  You may unwittingly bring inside a few pests along with the plant.

Your home will be an inviting place for all sorts of pests during the wintertime.  Follow these pest control tips to reduce the chances of them making their way inside your home.