As temperatures start to rise, you won’t be the only one saying goodbye to the cold winter weather. Pests love springtime because it’s when they can finally emerge from their winter hiatus. Unfortunately, this means they may start popping up in your home and yard. Check out a few tips to prevent pests from invading your home this spring.
Spring Cleaning
It may not be your favorite activity, but giving your home a good cleaning can help prevent pest problems. You’ll want to take time to regularly sweep, mop, and vacuum your home. Organizing can also reduce pest invasions. Bugs stay in areas where they have access to food, water, and shelter. Eliminating clutter will reduce the places they can hide. Make sure to clean up crumbs and spills, and keep your sink free from dirty dishes.
Protect Your Food
Pests won’t hesitate to take a bite out of any food they can find. Storing your ingredients in airtight containers can keep your pantry bug-free. You’ll also want to keep your fresh produce stored in your refrigerator to reduce the chances of attracting pests. Don’t forget about your furry family members too. Keeping your pet’s food in a sealed container can protect it from hungry pests. It’s also a good idea to pick up their food when they aren’t eating it.
Home Repair
Bugs love to sneak into homes through tiny cracks and gaps. It’s important to examine the exterior and interior of your home for any spots where pests could enter. Check for holes near your foundation, walls, doors, and windows. If you find any, be sure to seal them with caulk. Check your door and window screens for tears. Repair or replace them and make sure it’s a secure fit. Weather-stripping can also become damaged so keep an eye on it and replace it when needed.
Eliminate Moisture
Nothing attracts pests to a home quicker than moisture, so it’s important to reduce its presence in your home. Repair any leaky pipes or faucets. Using a dehumidifier can help reduce moisture build-up. Consider placing one in your basement and other areas where moisture is common. Make sure your gutters are working properly and cleared of any debris. Not only will this keep water from building, it also eliminates hiding spots for pests.
Take Care of Your Yard
A little bit of work outside can help keep pests from coming inside your home. Keeping your lawn trimmed can make it less attractive to pests like ticks. You’ll also want to trim any trees or bushes that are close to your home. Not only do bugs like to hang out on vegetation, they can also use it as a bridge to gain access to your home. Keeping your yard clear of clutter can reduce potential hiding spots and moisture build-up that can attract pests.
Create a Protective Barrier
Applying a plant-based insecticide spray, like our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective Yard Bug Spray, to the perimeter of your yard can help keep pests away. While it kills on contact, it also has repellent properties. This residual repellency acts like a barrier and helps keep pests from sneaking into your yard and your home. Our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective Home Bug Spray can be applied near common entry points, like doors and windows, to help keep your home pest-free.
Bugs may think of spring as their season, but that doesn’t mean you should have to deal with them. Taking a few preventative measures can help keep uninvited guests out of your home. If bugs are giving you a fit, we want to help! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective Pest Control products.