Fall is filled with pumpkin spice and everything nice…except for bugs. Many believe that the arrival of fall will put an end to their war with bugs. However, many pests try to deal with the colder weather by searching for warm shelter, and homes provide a nice cozy spot for them. We’ve made a list of things you can do to help keep fall pests out of your home.
Clean Inside
Cleaning may not be a favorite fall activity, but it is a great way to prevent pests from coming inside. Wipe down counters and pay special attention to any sticky spots. Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming regularly will ensure you catch any crumbs that could attract pests. Make sure to remove trash bags and place them in a tightly sealed trash can. It may not seem like a big deal to leave dishes out overnight, but dirty dishes will make bugs feel right at home.
Declutter
Cleaning your house will help keep bugs away, but you’ll also want to spend some time organizing. Piles of clothes, stacks of paper, and cardboard boxes are exactly what bugs want. They provide bugs with the shelter they need. Go through your clothes and donate the pieces you don’t wear anymore. Replace cardboard boxes with sealed plastic bins. Bugs will have a harder time slipping into these than boxes.
Yard Work
Maintaining your yard is just as important as taking care of the inside of your home. Leaf piles make the perfect hiding spot for bugs. Make sure to rake leaves and remove any debris from your yard. You’ll also want to keep your lawn trimmed. Check to make sure shrubs and plants aren’t touching your home. Bugs can easily crawl from plants right into your house. If you keep firewood in your yard, it’s best to place it at least 20 feet from your home since bugs often hide there.
Seal Cracks & Gaps
If pests see an opening, they won’t hesitate to slip into your home. Check the exterior and interior of your house for cracks where bugs can enter. Don’t just look for the large gaps; bugs can squeeze through very small cracks. Openings near doors and windows are common entry points for bugs. You can use a caulk gun to seal any openings. You’ll also want to repair damaged weather-stripping and fix any tears in door and window screens.
Eliminate Moisture
When searching for a place to overwinter, pests are drawn to areas with moisture. It’s important to make sure your home doesn’t have excess moisture. Check your pipes and repair any that are leaking. Make sure your gutters aren’t clogged and are working properly. If your basement or garage is prone to moisture build-up, you can use a dehumidifier to help keep it to a minimum. Replacing your pet’s water bowl frequently can also help keep bugs away.
Remove Food Sources
Bugs aren’t picky when it comes to food and will eat just about anything they can find. Your crumbs will make pests feel invited. Sweeping crumbs and wiping up spills will limit possible food sources. It’s best to keep food stored in containers with lids to keep pests out. Instead of leaving your fruits and vegetables on the counter, place them in the fridge. Don’t forget about your pet’s food. Their crunchies will be just as appealing to bugs as your leftovers. Pick up their food at night and store it in a container instead of the bag.
Use a Plant-Based Insecticide Spray
Treating your home before bugs show up can help ensure they stay away. Pesticides formulated with plant essential oils, like Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products, are not only effective but also more environmentally and family-friendly when used as directed. You can treat the exterior of your home with a spray like our Yard Bug Spray. Not only does it kill pests, it also provides you with residual repellency protection. This will act like a barrier and help deter pests from entering your home. For the bugs that slip inside, you can use a spray like our Home Bug Spray.
You shouldn’t have to share your warm and cozy home with bugs this fall. Taking the time to pest-proof your home can help prevent an infestation. If bugs start invading your home, we want to help! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.