Plus four places you wouldn’t think to clean

Spring is such a welcome sight for many homeowners who have spent the last few months battling frigid temperature and cold, gray skies. But along with the beautiful spring flowers and rising temperatures, we all know what comes along with it…more bugs.

The good news is that with a little proactive cleaning and prevention, you can keep your home pest-free and enjoy the season to its fullest. Here are some top tips and tricks to target those hidden pest hideouts and keep your home pest-free this spring.

Common Pests You May Encounter This Spring

Before we get into cleaning tips, it’s important to know what you’re up against. Here are some common pests homeowners encounter during the spring months:

Ants: As the weather warms up, ants become more active in search of food and water.
Termites: Spring is termite swarming season, when reproductive termites emerge to establish new colonies.
Flies: Flies are attracted to food scraps and organic matter, making them a common nuisance in the spring.
Mosquitoes: Standing water from spring rains provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes, making them more prevalent this time of year.

Top Spring Cleaning Tips for Pest Prevention

Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up and decluttering; it's also about keeping pests at bay. Here are some essential spring cleaning tips to help you prevent pest infestations:

Seal up cracks and crevices: Inspect your home for any cracks or gaps in the walls, windows, and doors. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal them up, preventing pests from sneaking inside.
Clear clutter: Pests love to hide in cluttered areas, so take the time to get rid of any piles of newspapers, magazines, or cardboard boxes that could serve as hiding spots.
Clean up crumbs and spills: Even the smallest crumbs can attract pests like ants and cockroaches. Be sure to clean up any spills and crumbs promptly, especially in the kitchen and dining areas.
Store food properly: Keep food stored in airtight containers to prevent pests from getting into it. This includes pantry items like cereal, flour, and sugar, as well as pet food.
Trim vegetation: Trim back any bushes or trees that are touching your home, as they can provide a pathway for pests to enter. Keep your lawn mowed and tidy to reduce hiding spots for pests.

Unexpected Places Homeowners Should Clean

When it comes to pest prevention, it’s a good time to think outside the box. Here are a few places you might not think to clean, but that can attract pests:

Gutters and downspouts: Clean out your gutters and downspouts to prevent water from accumulating, which can attract pests like mosquitoes and termites.
Appliances: Crumbs and spills can accumulate underneath appliances like refrigerators and stoves, providing a food source for pests. Be sure to pull these appliances out and clean underneath them regularly.
Trash cans: Empty and clean your trash cans regularly to prevent odors that can attract pests like flies and rodents.
Pet bedding: Wash your pet's bedding regularly to remove pet dander and odors that can attract pests like fleas and ticks.

By taking the time to implement these spring cleaning tips, you can avoid a big infestation and headache this spring when you should be focusing on enjoying the beautiful weather!

If you’ve already identified an infestation or are interested in learning more about preventative services, contact Pestmaster. Our expert technicians will evaluate your property and personal needs to create a customized pest solution for you and your family.