10 Tips to Start the New Year Pest Free
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- January 7, 2025
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10 Tips to Start the New Year Pest Free
A fresh start to the new year is the perfect opportunity to ensure your home remains free of pests. Taking proactive steps now can save you time, money, and stress down the road. Here are 10 detailed tips to help you keep pests out of your home in the year ahead:
1. Seal Entry Points
Pests like rodents and insects can slip through the tiniest openings in your home. Inspect the exterior of your house for cracks, gaps, and holes, particularly around windows, doors, and utility pipes. Use caulk, steel wool, or weatherstripping to seal these potential entryways. Don’t forget to check for worn or damaged screens on windows and vents, as these can also be easy access points for pests.
2. Keep Food Sealed
Unsealed food is an open invitation for pests. Store pantry items such as flour, sugar, and cereals in airtight containers, and make it a habit to clean up crumbs and spills promptly. Regularly wipe down kitchen counters and sweep floors to eliminate food debris. Don’t forget to empty your trash frequently and use a trash can with a tight-fitting lid to keep pests away.
3. Declutter and Clean Regularly
Cluttered spaces provide perfect hiding spots for pests. Go through storage areas like basements, attics, and garages to discard items you no longer need. Vacuum and dust regularly, paying special attention to corners, baseboards, and behind furniture. Decluttering not only reduces hiding places for pests but also makes it easier to spot potential issues before they escalate.
4. Eliminate Standing Water
Standing water is a magnet for pests such as mosquitoes and rodents. Inspect your home for leaky faucets, pipes, and clogged gutters, and fix them immediately. Make sure your yard is properly graded to prevent water from pooling. Indoors, avoid overwatering houseplants and regularly empty drip trays under appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners.
5. Schedule Regular Pest Inspections
Even if you don’t currently see signs of pests, a professional inspection can uncover vulnerabilities or hidden infestations. Pest control experts have the knowledge and tools to identify issues early and provide tailored recommendations to protect your home. Regular inspections are an investment in your peace of mind and the long-term health of your property.
6. Properly Store Firewood
Firewood can be a haven for termites, ants, and other pests. Store it at least 20 feet away from your home and elevate it off the ground using a rack or pallet. Avoid bringing firewood inside until it’s ready to be burned and inspect it thoroughly for pests before carrying it into your home.
7. Dispose of Trash Properly
Trash is one of the most common attractants for pests like rats, raccoons, and ants. Use trash cans with tightly fitting lids to keep pests out and make it a habit to take your garbage out regularly. Keep your outdoor trash area clean and avoid leaving food scraps or bags of garbage exposed, especially overnight.
8. Inspect Holiday Decorations
Holiday decorations stored in attics or basements can harbor pests. Before packing them away, inspect each item for signs of insects, spiders, or rodents. Use plastic storage bins with tight-fitting lids instead of cardboard boxes, which are more attractive to pests. When the next holiday season comes around, give decorations another inspection to ensure pests haven’t moved in.
9. Maintain Your Yard
Your yard is often the first line of defense against pests. Trim bushes and tree branches that come into contact with your home, as these can act as bridges for pests to enter. Keep your lawn tidy, remove leaf piles and debris, and store outdoor items like grills and furniture properly. A well-maintained yard creates fewer opportunities for pests to find shelter.
10. Invest in a Year-Round Pest Control Plan
Seasonal pests require a consistent approach to keep them at bay. A year-round pest control plan provides comprehensive protection tailored to the changing seasons. From winter rodent control to summer protection against stinging insects, professional services can address potential problems before they arise. Plus, regular visits help ensure your home remains pest-free all year long.
Take Action Today and Get Started With Greater NH Pest Control
Starting the new year pest-free is possible with a little planning and consistent effort. If you want to ensure your home stays protected, our expert pest control services are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our customized pest control plans.
Here’s to a pest-free new year and a comfortable, worry-free home!
