Much like slumbering bears, common household or workplace pests are often assumed to be dormant in the winter too. And as fun as it might be to imagine a cockroach sunning itself on a beach in the Caribbean Islands, unfortunately, winter is actually one of the worst times for pest invasion. Think about it: it’s cold outside, while people’s homes and businesses have food, water and warmth. This is a recipe for pest invasion! Throughout the colder months, it’s actually even more important to undertake certain pest control methods, from extra kitchen cleaning to sealing off that leaky basement window. Get cozy this winter without the worry of bugs, rodents or other invasive pests invading your space with these simple tricks.
Identify Things that Attract Pests
Anything you can do to reduce the chance of pests getting into your home or business is a great first step. They’ll be even more motivated than usual to sneak into your home or business, so pay close attention to areas of entrance. These often include drain pipes, eaves and holes or gaps around your home’s foundation. Another thing that is almost certain to attract the attention of pests is garbage bins and dumpsters. Unclean environments where there is obviously food scattered or accessible are almost certain to attract raccoons, rodents and cockroaches, to name a few. Make sure these are secured, that the area surrounding them is tidy and that they are cleaned and taken away on a regular basis. It’s also a great idea to reinforce the perimeter of your home or business, as pests will be putting extra effort into getting into your home during the colder months. If your exterior has holes or gaps that could allow pests to enter, ask a professional to seal them using a water-proof material. Ensure any landscaping around the perimeter is maintained and trim any overhanging trees, which pests can use to climb and access upper levels – or the roof – of your home. If you pile firewood outside your home, be aware that is also a sneaky place for pests to hide!
Boost Your Cleaning Routine
No one likes to admit to themselves that they’re a less than clean individual, but the truth is that pests are attracted to mess and clutter, so if you want to keep them at bay throughout the winter, you might want to think about reinforcing your sanitation procedures. Food is a big part of this! Ensure you’re thoroughly cleaning areas where food is eaten, cooked or stores. Sweep up those crumbs and wipe up those spills. Don’t forget hard-to-reach areas, like underneath your toaster and at the base of your fridge. Ensure any food stored in your kitchen is sealed and not easily accessible. As mentioned above, make sure your garbage bins are securely sealed and make sure the surrounding area is tidy and sanitized. Don’t forget outside too! Maintain your yard, keeping it trimmed and free of rotting leaves that may have piled up over the fall. If you have a fruit or vegetable garden, ensure any leftover fruit or produce is cleared out and think about investing in a secure compost bin that’s difficult for animals to access.
Reduce Sources of Moisture
Moisture can be another attraction for certain kinds of pests. When you’re checking the outside of your house, be on the lookout for outdoor faucets that leak or any areas where standing water may pool. Rain barrels, planters or water bowls for your pets are common sources of excess water. Don’t forget about sources of moisture in your home too. This includes leaky HVAC systems, ice machines or pesky basements. Make sure any areas that need to be sealed or waterproofed are taken care of.
Consult with a Professional
If you live or work in an environment that’s high-risk for pests – a restaurant for example –or an older building that’s experienced pest problems in the past, you might want to consult with a professional pest control company. Whether you need help eliminating something as large as a rat or racoon, or as small but obnoxious as bedbugs and cockroaches, the quickest and most effective route is usually through a professional service. However, they can also be a good source of information for how to prevent pests in the first place, and many will provide an assessment or consultation free of charge. Still have questions or concerns about controlling pests in the winter? For all your pest control needs, contact Pestend Pest Control Mississauga today.