Buzz
Image: Pete Starman/Getty ImagesAs the winter months roll in, we all love to get comfortable indoors—but pests, such as insects, spiders, and mice, have the same idea. If they get the chance, many of these critters will happily move in as your uninvited guests.
Luckily, there are steps you can take to prevent these creatures from entering your home in the first place, and ways to get rid of them if they do manage to sneak in. Explore our tips to ensure the only guests in your home this winter are your family members.
Ways to Prevent Winter Pests from Entering Your Home
The most effective approach to eliminate winter pests is by preventing their entry altogether. Pest control experts suggest following these strategies to make your home uninviting for unwanted guests.
Close any cracks and openings.
Pests can easily enter your home through any small openings, whether it's a crack in the foundation, a gap around a pipe, or even a tiny space under the door. Weatherstripping and caulking are excellent solutions to keep pests out.
Address excess moisture.
Many pests flourish in warm, humid conditions. If your basement or crawl space has high humidity levels, consider using a dehumidifier. Additionally, be sure to fix any leaking pipes or faucets promptly to prevent water accumulation.
Reduce clutter.
Mice, insects, and spiders all search for secluded areas to hide and nest, and nothing is more appealing than a dark, cluttered space. (Bonus: Clearing clutter not only makes it easier to spot pests early but also helps prevent their numbers from growing.)
Store food properly.
As outdoor food supplies dwindle in the winter, pests begin seeking indoor alternatives. If pantry items or other food sources are left easily accessible, it will encourage pests to invade your home.
Tend to your garden regularly to maintain its beauty and health.
Various pests like insects, spiders, and centipedes tend to thrive in mulch or beneath stones, and they can easily find their way into your home if landscaping and plant materials are left near the foundation. Keep your garden tidy and well-maintained to prevent them from establishing a home too close to yours.
Dealing with Mice: How to Safely Remove Them
Mice are common, especially in winter when they seek warmth. You may notice small droppings or chew marks on food containers. If you spot any, consider using traps and repellents to handle the infestation, and don't forget to seal any possible entry points.
Tips for Getting Rid of Insects and Centipedes
As the weather turns colder, many insects that spent the warmer months outside will seek shelter indoors, especially if there's a cool, damp, and dark spot to settle in. Here's how to keep various winter pests at bay:
- How to Get Rid of Cockroaches
- How to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs
- How to Get Rid of Centipedes
- How to Get Rid of Earwigs
- How to Get Rid of Ladybugs
- How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs
How to Get Rid of Spiders
Spiders may give you the creeps, but they play a vital role in controlling insect populations, particularly in your garden. However, if they make their way into your home and start nesting, you could find yourself with an overwhelming number of spiderlings—something most people would rather avoid.
A vacuum cleaner can be an effective tool for both preventing spider infestations and dealing with any you encounter. Use it to clean your home thoroughly, paying special attention to corners and areas along the ceiling, and remove any spiders you spot immediately.
If you'd prefer a gentler approach, lay down a piece of paper and cover the spider with a glass, then carefully relocate it outside. Essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus can act as repellents for spiders, while a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water will kill them on contact.
Reducing the food sources available by addressing other insect infestations can also help in preventing spiders from entering your home in the first place.
