Winter has finally faded, and spring is in full bloom. That means saying goodbye to chilly days and hello to April showers, May flowers, and, of course, spring cleaning.
Scrubbing surfaces and decluttering spaces are likely at the top of your to-do list, but there’s one important task you don’t want to overlook — pest prevention. As temperatures rise, insects and rodents are on the move, searching for food and shelter. The last thing you want is for pests to settle in just as you’re tidying up your home.
The good news? Many of the chores you’re already tackling can double as pest-proofing with just a few extra steps. Keep these spring pest prevention tips in mind as you clean to stop pests before they become a problem.
A deep-cleaned kitchen is not only satisfying — it’s one of the best ways to keep pests at bay.
Crumbs, spills, and open food containers can attract ants, cockroaches, and pantry pests like Indian meal moths. As you wipe down the counters and sweep the floors, take an extra moment to check your pantry. Throw out any expired items and store dry goods like flour, cereal, and pet food in airtight containers.
Your appliances are also ideal hiding spots for a number of pests, including rodents. Pull out your fridge and stove to clean in those hidden spaces where crumbs can collect. A little extra effort now can save you from an infestation later.
Bedrooms and BathroomsSpring cleaning often means sorting through closets and packing away seasonal clothes. As the saying goes, “sun’s out, guns out.”
But as you swap sweaters for shorts, you may find clothes moths that like to feed on natural fabrics like silk, cotton, and wool. Before you store your winter wardrobe, wash or dry-clean jackets and sweaters to eliminate any fabric-loving pests.
In the bathroom, damp conditions can attract pests like cockroaches and silverfish. While you’re scrubbing the tub and wiping down sinks, check for any leaky pipes or areas with excess moisture. Running a fan or dehumidifier can keep moisture in check and pests out.
High-traffic spaces like the living room might not seem like pest hotspots, but without regular upkeep, they can provide shelter and food for opportunistic invaders.
As you move furniture to vacuum, keep an eye out for signs of mice. These sneaky rodents love to hide under floorboards and inside furniture, and their droppings are a telltale sign they’ve made themselves at home.
Crumbs trapped under couch cushions can also attract ants, so be sure to clean between and beneath cushions while you’re at it. If you have pets, spring cleaning is the perfect time to wash their bedding and refresh their flea and tick treatments to stop pests from hitching a ride inside.
Cluttered garages, basements, and attics are the perfect hideouts for squirrels, rodents, and insects to ride out the winter.
While decluttering these spaces, swap out any cardboard boxes for sealed plastic containers. Rodents love to nest in cardboard, and many insects can chew right through it. As you clear out unwanted items and track down those stashed-away lawn chairs, take a moment to inspect dark corners for signs of pest activity. If you spot anything suspicious, clean the area thoroughly to keep unwanted critters from sticking around.
OutdoorsWith everything coming back to life, your yard is another important area to include in your spring cleaning. While trimming bushes and clearing debris, make sure no branches or plants are touching your house, as they can serve as bridges for ants and rodents.
If you’re cleaning out gutters, check that downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation. Standing water is a magnet for mosquitoes, so proper drainage can help keep their numbers in check.
Lastly, as you tidy up your patio or deck, inspect your home’s exterior for cracks or small openings — especially around windows and doors. Sealing up these gaps can keep pests from sneaking inside.
A clean home is a less inviting place for pests, but some critters are more stubborn than a little spring cleaning can handle. If spring bugs are making themselves at home, contact us for a quick and efficient removal.
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