5 Tips to Prevent Bugs This Fall

Summer may be ending but that doesn’t mean pests are done bugging you. Some pests sneak into homes in fall to find a safe place to stay until winter passes. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to prevent fall pests. We’ve made a list of tips to help you keep bugs out of your home this fall. 

1. Seal Entry Points

The best way to prevent bugs from sneaking inside is sealing potential entry points. 

• Check for cracks and gaps around the exterior and interior of your home. Seal any you find. Caulk or steel wool can be used to seal cracks. 
• Don’t forget to examine the foundation of your home and the area around doors and windows. 
• Repair or replace damaged window and door screens.
  
• Repair or replace worn weather stripping.
• Don't forget to check your garage doors for worn seals. 

2. Minimize Moisture

Fall pests are attracted to moisture, so keeping your space dry can help to deter them.

• Repair or replace leaky pipes, faucets, or appliances.
• Check for leaks in ceilings and fix the problem.
• Remove items in your yard that collect water like old flowerpots, tires, and toys.
• Keep your gutters clean to avoid moisture build-up.
• Use a dehumidifier in damp areas of your home to reduce moisture.

3. Keep Your Space Clean

Keeping your home and yard clean can help to reduce potential hiding spots and food sources.

• Remove clutter from your home, especially in areas where bugs gravitate including basements, garages, and attics.
• Store clothes and items in plastic bins with lids instead of cardboard boxes.
• Clean up crumbs and spills as soon as you see them to avoid attracting hungry bugs. 
• Don’t leave food out overnight, and store produce in the refrigerator. Keep your sink free of dirty dishes.
• Store pet food in a sealed container. Pests have no problem snacking on your furry family member’s food.
• Vacuuming and sweeping can help to remove bugs that have slipped into your home. 
• Remove debris, such as leaves, rocks, and branches, and trash from your yard. 
  

4. Clear the Area Around Your Home

If pests are drawn to things near your house, they are only a few short steps away from entering your home.

• Trim shrubs, trees, and plants so they aren’t touching the side of your house.
• Make sure there’s space between your home’s foundation and mulch.
• Don’t store firewood against your house. Place it several feet away from your home and inspect it for bugs before bringing it inside.
• Clear away yard debris including leaves, weeds, twigs, and rocks.

5. Use Plant-Based Insecticide Sprays

Using plant-based insecticide sprays can help to prevent and control fall pest problems.

• Spray the perimeter of your yard and home with a plant-based insecticide spray. Our Yard Bug Spray kills pests and has repellent properties. This repellency acts as a protective barrier helping to keep pests away.
• You can also spray common entry points with our Home Bug Spray. It kills a variety of pests and provides you with residual repellency protection. This will help to deter pests from slipping into your home.

Pests may be looking for their winter vacation spot, but you don’t have to welcome them. Taking the time to bug-proof your space can help prevent pest problems. If you’re dealing with pests, we’re here to help! For a more environmentally and family-friendly solution when used as directed, check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.