No homeowner wants pests to invade their home or yard. However, it’s easy for pests to find their way into and around a home, and certain conditions may actually be inviting pests to a property.
- Garbage: Piles of garbage offer food and shelter to pests. Removing garbage piles and cleaning up food waste promptly can make a difference.
- Stagnant water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Anywhere water has pooled, mosquitoes may be breeding.
- Moisture or standing water: Additional sources of water and moisture may attract pests like gnats, mosquitoes, stink bugs, and certain spiders. Damp areas are of particular concern, especially when combined with darkness.
- Firewood: Firewood attracts a variety of pests, including termites and weevils. Firewood also may contain eggs laid before the trees were cut down. If firewood is needed, it should be stacked far away from the home.
- Clogged gutters: Ignoring clogged gutters can lead to mice, squirrels, birds, ants, and spiders. Leaves offer shelter, nesting material, and possible food sources of insect life.
- Dirty dishes and indoor trash: Leaving food-covered dishes in the sink invites pests, such as cockroaches, flies, ants, and more. Even if time is short, it’s best to wash dishes or load them into the dishwasher. Overflowing trash also draws pests into a home.
- Clutter: Clutter provides hiding places for all sorts of rodents and insects, which can hide out in cluttered areas and remain comfortable. Going room to room and clearing out extraneous items may help reduce pest populations. Focus on the garage and basement, in particular.
Pests are attracted to certain conditions, and remedying these issues can help reduce pest infestations.
