5 Spring Pest-Proofing Tips

With the onset of spring, comes the pesky pests! These critters don’t just settle outdoors but can also enter your home in search of food, water and shelter. Pest-proofing your home for spring will save you time, trouble and a lot of frustration. To help you get started, here are 5 easy tips to spring pest-proof your home.

1. Clean Up

To deter and eliminate existing pests, you need to start by cleaning and organizing the exterior of your home. Start by trimming bushes and trees and remove any leaf litter that may have piled up over the winter. Get rid of any standing water or water sources that may attract and encourage the growth of pests. Check the outside of your home to make sure there are no entry points or cracks that could let pests in.

Keep It Dry

to prevent any pests from entering your home, you need to keep it nice and dry. Make sure there are no overflows or leaks coming from your drains or sinks. Also, be sure to check the foundation of your home for any cracks or openings that pests may use to enter. Take the time to fill in any cracks and repair any damaged areas, so pests have a harder time getting inside.

Go Natural

Eco-friendly, natural repellents are an effective way to keep pests at bay without the use of harsh chemicals. These natural remedies can be used both indoors and outdoors to repel mosquitoes, ants, flies and other common pests. Some natural ways to keep pests away include sprinkling cedar chips around areas you want to keep pest-free, or placing bay leaves or peppermint essential oil around the perimeter of your home.

2. Seal Up Food Sources

Most pests are looking for food and water when they invade your home. To make sure these critters can’t get to any stored food, seal up all food items in airtight containers. Make sure you take all the recyclables out of the house, seal them up in large garbage bins, and keep them at least 20 feet away from your home. For extra protection, add a layer of mesh on the garbage can to make sure no pests can get inside.

Keep Pantry and Fridge Organized

To keep your pantry and fridge free of pests, make sure you check dates on all food items and toss any food that has expired. Keep the pantry and fridge organized, with all food properly sealed and placed in secure containers. Place all food items in the fridge or pantry lower shelves and away from the walls or floors.

Eliminate Standing Water

Standing water is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests. To prevent breeding in and around your home, make sure you get rid of any standing water. Look around your home for any areas that could be collecting water, and make sure to fix any drainage issues or clogged gutters.

3. Choose Pest Repellents Wisely

If you’re having a hard time getting rid of pests using eco-friendly products, you may need to invest in some stronger products. Make sure to choose pest repellents carefully, and read the label thoroughly before using. Most pesticide sprays are toxic to humans, so avoid spraying near your food storage areas or living spaces. There are also natural pest repellents that are available and will do the job just as effectively.

Know the Products You Are Using

Before you buy any pesticide sprays or other repellents, make sure you know what you’re spraying. Choose a product that targets the specific pests you are trying to get rid of, and follow the instructions carefully. Avoid using any products that contain harsh, dangerous chemicals, and always wear gloves when applying any pesticides.

Treat the Exterior of Your Home

To keep pests from re-entering your property, you need to treat the exterior of your home. Look for any areas of the house that may have been damaged over the winter and treat these areas with a pest-proofing product. If any trees or shrubs have been affected by pests, consider cutting them down and replacing them with ones that are more pest-resistant.

4. Keep Pet Food Contained

Pets are great company, but unfortunately their food can attract all sorts of pests. To keep pests away from your pet’s food, make sure to keep their food and water in plastic containers or sealed bags. Keep the containers closed when not in use and make sure to clean up spills immediately. You can also sprinkle some natural repellent around the pet food to deter pests.

Place Pet Food Bowls Indoors

To reduce the risk of pests, you should place the pet food bowls indoors. This will keep the food away from areas where pests may congregate. Be sure to use bowls made from stainless steel, as plastic bowls may not be as durable. Also make sure the bowls are regularly cleaned and washed, as food left overnight can attract pests.

Keep Pets Clean and Grooming

It’s important to keep your pet clean and groomed to reduce the risk of pests. Give your pet a bath at least every two weeks to keep them free from fleas and ticks. Regularly brush their fur and make sure to check their ears, mouth and other areas for signs of pests.

5. Check for Pest Activity

The best way to ensure the pests don’t take up residence in your home is to check for signs of their activity. As soon as you spot any suspicious signs, take immediate action to reduce the risk of a full-blown infestation. Look for droppings, nests, or any other evidence of pests. You can also use devices such as traps or sticky boards to detect any pests in your home.

Examine Cracks and Crevices

To catch pests early, you need to thoroughly inspect any high-risk areas of your home. Look for any cracks, crevices, or openings in the walls,ceilings, and floors that might provide a home for pests. Use a flashlight to better inspect these areas and seal any openings that you find.

Prevent Possible Entryways

Do a check of your windows, doors and other openings indoors and outdoors to make sure they are properly sealed. Replace screens that have any holes or tears, as these can provide easy entry points for pests. Make sure your windows and doors are well-fitted, as any gap could give pests access to your home.