While you may not intentionally invite pests into your home, there’s a chance you’re unknowingly attracting unwanted visitors with bad habits.
Unfortunately, doing so isn’t just gross—it can also be dangerous to your health and the structural integrity of your home.
However, by being wary of uncleanly habits and fighting back against pests, you can bypass infestations.
That said, if you see signs of hiding insects, consider hiring a reputable exterminator for Newton, MA, termite control.
Read on to learn about seven ways you may be attracting pests into your home.
Contents
1. You Don’t Clean Up Spills and Crumbs Right Away
Whether a dropped slice of pizza or a dribbled glass of juice, spills and crumbs are an open invitation for pests.
Allowing them to sit for even a short period can attract ants, cockroaches, and rodents looking for an easy meal.
The solution is simple: clean up spills and vacuum crumbs as soon as they happen.
Additionally, ensure to sweep and mop your floors regularly since pests can also attract general dirt and grime.
2. You Leave Food Out
Leaving food on the counter or sink is another surefire way to attract pests.
Even if there are no crumbs or spills, the scent of food can be enough to bring certain insects into your home.
Make a habit of putting away food as soon as you’re done with it, and take out the garbage regularly.
Additionally, keep food in airtight containers so pests can’t smell it. Doing so will help keep your kitchen clean and pest-free.
3. You Don’t Have Screens on Your Windows and Doors
If you don’t have screens on your windows and doors, you’re likely inviting pests into your home.
Not only do screens keep out flies and mosquitoes, but they also deter larger problems like squirrels and raccoons.
If you don’t have screens, keep your windows and doors closed as often as possible.
In addition, repair any holes or tears in your screens as soon as you notice them.
An excellent way to stay on top of any damage is by investing in a roll of screening material.
4. You Don’t Seal Up Cracks and Holes
Pests can enter your home through the smallest of cracks and holes.
If you want to keep them out, it’s essential to seal up any fractures you may have, no matter how small.
You can use caulk, weather stripping, or even something as simple as duct tape—just make sure to create a tight seal.
Additionally, check your doors, windows, and home foundation. Most pests can’t chew through concrete, so they’ll look for weak spots in any other type of material.
5. You Have a Lot of Clutter
Pests love clutter because it provides them with convenient hiding places. So if your home is full of messy areas, it’s time to start decluttering.
Removing unnecessary belongings will not only open up your home but also make it less attractive to pests.
To declutter your home, start by going through each room and removing anything you don’t need.
Then, whatever you can’t bear to part with, make sure to put it in a storage container instead of piling your remaining belongings back into a bug haven.
6. You Don’t Keep Your Yard Clean
Your yard is the first line of defense against pests, so it’s essential to keep it clean.
Pests often enter homes through open doors or windows, so trimming back bushes and trees near your home is an excellent way to deter them.
In addition, be sure to clean up any debris in your yard, such as leaves and branches.
Between mowing your lawn, trimming bushes, cutting back trees, and removing debris, you can keep pests away from your space.
Ultimately, a well-kept yard will go a long way in deterring pests from entering your home.
7. You Don’t Have Proper Drainage
Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects.
If you want to keep pests out of your yard, it’s essential to have proper drainage, ensuring your gutters are clean and that any water that does collect has a place to drain.
In addition to keeping your gutters clean, watch out for any puddles in your yard.
If you see any, clear them out as soon as possible by filling them with sand or dirt. You could also consider planting a rock garden if flooding continues.
Conclusion
There are many ways you may be unknowingly attracting pests to your home.
Some of the most common include leaving food out, not cleaning up spills and crumbs, and not having screens on your windows and doors.
If you’re struggling with a pest problem, contact a reputable exterminator for help.
