6 spring cleaning tips to stay pest-free

With spring-like temperatures moving in, many of us are shaking off our winter thaw and putting together spring cleaning checklists. Spring is a great time to conduct an inspection of your home with an eye towards potential pest problems. Here are six spring cleaning tips from our experts

1. Wear a mask or respirator when cleaning out closed-up spaces.

Opening up a cabin, shed, or other storage space that has been closed for a few months? It’s a good idea to wear a mask or respirator. Droppings left behind by rodents, birds, and bats can harbor dangerous diseases that can be breathed in via invisible, aerosolized particles.

2. Watch your wires.

Electrical boxes and wiring are a  favorite of pests looking for warm winter harborage or food. Open electrical boxes and look for living or dead insects. Rodents will also chew plastic coverings off of wires, which can pose fire hazards. If you notice anything suspicious, alert your Ehrlich specialist.

3. Don’t feed the animals (or insects).

Pet food, birdseed and dry food items are tempting snacks for hungry pests. In your pantry, keep dried foods and grains in sealed, pest-proof containers. The same holds true for pet foods. Keep areas where animals eat swept, and empty bowls after your furry friends have eaten. Hose down outside spaces after barbecues. Finally, if your kids snack in rooms other than the kitchen, make sure they clean up after themselves!

4. Mark cracks, crevices and gaps to be sealed.

Pests of all kinds can make their way into your home through the smallest gaps and cracks – particularly near windows, doors, and roof lines or around electrical wiring and vents. These should be sealed to prevent pests from getting in next fall. Check out our Pest-proofing your home article for further tips in this area.  

5. Fix leaks and eliminate standing water.

Moisture of any kind is a huge attractant for pests, including termites, mosquitoes, and rodents. Remove items that may collect water – toys, plant pots, non-functioning birdbaths, etc. Make sure subareas are dry, and that gutters are cleaned. Any leaking faucet or plumbing, both inside and out, should be corrected.

6. Clean up the yard.

Leaves, tree stumps, and other plant waste offer hiding places and safe harborages for insects. Trees hanging over roofs can also give insect and wildlife pests access to your home. To keep them away, rake and clean up plant debris, especially under porches and decks.  Keep trees trimmed, leaving at least a three-foot clearance between the tree and any structure.  Remove dead branches and brush, and store firewood away at a significant distance from your home.

With all of the bugs it brings, spring is the perfect time to begin a pest control regimen. Contact us today to make pest control a part of your spring cleaning!