The holiday season is a time for family gatherings, delicious feasts, and cozy nights by the fireplace. However, it’s also a time when pests look for warm shelter and easy access to food—making your Highland, IL home an inviting target. To keep your home pest-free and ensure a stress-free holiday, follow these practical tips.
Store Food Properly
The holidays often mean an abundance of food, from baked goods to leftovers. Pests, especially rodents and insects, are attracted to these food sources. Store dry goods like flour, sugar, and cereals in airtight containers. Keep leftovers sealed and refrigerated promptly, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
Keep Your Kitchen Clean
A clean kitchen is one of the most effective ways to prevent pest infestations. Clean countertops, sweep the floors, and dispose of trash frequently. Be sure to clean up spills immediately, as even small crumbs can attract ants, cockroaches, and mice. Deep cleaning behind appliances, such as the stove and refrigerator, can also eliminate hidden food debris.
Inspect Holiday Decorations
Before bringing holiday decorations out of storage, check for signs of pests like droppings, webs, or chewed materials. Rodents and insects often nest in stored boxes, especially in attics and basements. Shake out wreaths, artificial trees, and garlands before bringing them inside. When packing decorations away after the holidays, use plastic storage bins instead of cardboard to prevent pests from getting inside.
Seal Entry Points
As temperatures drop, pests look for warmth indoors. Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and utility openings with caulk or weather stripping. Check for holes in screens and repair them as needed. Pay close attention to areas where pipes and wires enter the home, as these are common entry points for mice and insects.
Store Firewood Away from the House
If you use a fireplace, be mindful of where you store firewood. Keeping wood piles too close to your Highland, IL home can attract termites, ants, and rodents. Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your house and elevate it off the ground to reduce the chances of pests nesting inside.
Take Out the Trash Regularly
Overflowing trash bins are a feast for pests. Use garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and take out the trash frequently, especially after preparing holiday meals. If you store trash outside, keep it in sealed containers to prevent raccoons, rodents, and other wildlife from getting inside.
Be Cautious with Holiday Greenery
Fresh-cut trees, wreaths, and garlands can bring unwanted pests like spiders, aphids, and mites into your home. Before bringing greenery indoors, give it a good shake outside to remove any hidden insects.
If you’ve had pest problems in the past or want to ensure your Highland, IL home is protected this holiday season, call Brady Pest Solutions.
