How to Prevent Pests While Hosting During the Holidays
The holidays are a time for family, fun, and festive celebrations. But amid all the cheer, unwanted pests can also sneak into your North Carolina home. We’ve put together some simple, eco-friendly pest prevention tips to help you keep your home comfortable, guarded, and pest-free this season.
Holiday Pest Prevention Tips
1. Keep It Clean
After the holiday feasts, it’s easy to let crumbs and leftovers linger, but pests like ants, cockroaches, and rodents are attracted to even the smallest bits of food. To avoid any unwanted guests, make sure to wipe down all surfaces, store leftovers in airtight containers, and take out the trash regularly. A clean home is a pest-free home!
2. Seal Those Entry Points
Pests are masters of sneaking in through the tiniest cracks and gaps. Take a moment to inspect doors, windows, and walls for any openings, and seal them with eco-friendly caulk or weatherstripping. Don’t forget to add door sweeps to keep mice and insects out—small fixes can make a big difference!
3. Inspect Your Decorations
As you bring out your holiday decorations, be on the lookout for signs of pests like spiders or rodents. When storing decorations, opt for sealed plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes, which can attract pests and moisture. Keeping your decor stored safely will ensure it’s ready for display without any unwelcome surprises.
4. Smart Outdoor Lighting Choices
Insects are naturally drawn to light, especially around doorways. To reduce bug activity, consider switching to yellow bug lights, which attract fewer insects. Position your lights away from doors and windows to keep pests from buzzing in during holiday gatherings.
5. Properly Store Firewood
If you’re enjoying a cozy fire this holiday season, store your firewood outside, well away from your home. Only bring in what you plan to burn immediately, as firewood can harbor pests like termites and spiders. By keeping it outdoors, you’ll avoid inviting critters into your home.
6. Natural Pest Repellents
Add a festive touch to your home while keeping pests at bay! Essential oils like peppermint, rosemary, and cinnamon not only smell wonderful but also act as natural pest repellents. Spray these oils around windows, doors, and kitchen areas to keep unwanted critters from making an appearance.
7. Get Extra Protection with Green Pest Control
If you want an added layer of protection, consider reaching out to a local North Carolina pest control company that specializes in eco-friendly solutions. They will offer green pest control treatments you can utilize when the pest prevention tips are exhausted. These treatments are gentle for your family and the environment while still keeping pests out.