Pesky pests can make any homeowner miserable, so starting the New Year with a pest-free home is a must. Implementing specific strategies and tactics is often the best approach to ensure a pest-free home. Here are 10 New Year’s resolutions to help ensure you make 2021 a pest-free year.
1. Regularly Check Your Home’s Exterior For Cracks, Holes and Leaks
Holes, cracks and leaks in the exterior of your home are prime invitations for rodents and bugs to enter and make your house their unwanted home. Regularly check the exterior of your home for any cracks, holes, or other entry points for pests. If necessary, repair any holes, apply a sealant, or replace old weather stripping.
Get an Exterminator to Shed Light on Any Potentially Hidden Issues
Along with ongoing preventative maintenance, getting an exterminator to give your home a once-over may be necessary to shed light on any potential spots pests have created that you have missed. Professional pest control services can inspect and identify potential issues, pest types and size of infestation. They can also apply the correct solutions and treatments to eliminate the problem.
Regularly Take Out the Trash and Dispose Properly
On a weekly basis, you should take the trash out of your home and dispose of it properly. Unattended trash cans allow pests to feast on whatever is inside. Unattended trash can also attract all sorts of unwelcome guests.
2. Keep all Outdoor Areas Clean and Well-Maintained
Keep the area around your home clean and as well-maintained as possible. This will help ensure your property looks its best and, more importantly, not attract dangerous and unwanted pests. Pests are drawn to clutter and disorder, so keep outdoor areas clean and free from leaves, trash and objects that may provide shelter to unwanted visitors.
Seal the Firewood Pile
Firewood is often stored in log stacks at the edge of the home. Pests such as spiders, roaches, and rodents can find refuge in these lumber pieces. To deter these pests, use a sealing tarp to cover the pile when it’s not in use.
Trim Tree Branches and Bushes
Trim any branches or bushes near your home as these areas tend to become gathering places for pests as well. Insects and reptiles that require shade will often flock to trees and bushes for rest. They can then easily enter into your home as pests.
3. Declutter and Regularly Clean Indoors
Pests love clutter, so keeping your living space clean and free from clutter is essential. Declutter the area weekly and keep it clean, indoors and out. Regularly cleaning your home, including floors, carpets, and furniture and dusting high areas such as ceilings and walls, helps to reduce the presence of dust mites and other allergens.
Ventilate the Home
Make sure that any damp areas in your home such as the kitchen, bathroom and the basement are adequately ventilated to deter pests due to a moist environment. Also, try to turn the heating off when it’s not necessary to help reduce humidity levels.
Be Careful With Food Storage
Always keep food sealed and stored in boxes, not on counters or open shelves. This helps to minimize food smells that could attract pests. Also, regularly check food containers and packages for signs of pests, contamination, mildew or other damages.
People Also Ask:
How do I keep my house free from pests?
To keep your house free from pests, make sure the exterior of your house is regularly inspected for any holes or cracks where pests can enter. Have an exterminator examine your house for any potential entry points and treat accordingly. Clean the area around your house and make sure to store food properly and ventilate damp areas in the home.
What type of pests should I look out for?
Common indoor pests to look out for include ants, cockroaches, rodents, fleas, bedbugs, spiders and mites. If you see any of these pests or signs of them, contact a pest control expert as soon as possible.
What is the best way of treating pest infestations?
The best way to treat a pest infestation is to call a professional pest control service. A professional will be able to identify the type of pest, best style and type of treatment to eradicate them and advise on tips to prevent future infestations.
Final Words
Eliminating pests from your home is essential for ensuring comfort and safety for both you and your family members. Starting off 2021 with a series of New Year’s resolutions can help make sure your house is free from pests and remains that way. Implementing consistent pest control measures and ongoing preventative maintenance is essential for having a pest-free home.