How do you know what to look for when you suspect common household pests have found their way into your home? If you haven’t actually spotted the culprit, you may have seen signs of their presence and wondered what to do next. The guide below can point you in the right direction before small problems lead to common household infestations.
How Do Pests Get Into My Home?
There are a number of ways pests can gain entry into your home. Identifying potential weak points, as well as behaviors or items that attract pests, can help you prevent common household infestations.
- Doors & Windows – Check for cracks or broken seals around doorways and window frames. Install a threshold or nylon sweep to cover cracks under the door. Use screens or spray for pests around chimneys.
- Yard – Make sure your lawn is mowed and there are no tall weeds in your yard. Avoid leaving piles of leaves, stacked wood, or open trash cans near your home.
- Water – Mosquitos and various other pests are attracted to standing water. Change birdbath water frequently and clean up areas where water collects.
- Gaps & Cracks – Look for cracks in siding or the foundation. Seal gaps around spots where cables and plumbing enter the home. Make sure dryer vents are clear of debris and vent dampers are functional.
- Clutter – Cluttered areas indoors make great hiding places. Be sure to clean out closets and storage areas frequently and not leave messes for long periods of time.
- Food – Always keep food in sealed containers or the refrigerator. Clean up spills quickly. Don’t leave standing water in dishes or the sink. Clean the pantry often.
Common Household Pests
Learn more about common household pests and the clues they leave behind by following the links below.
Ants
Ants are often attracted by food, particularly sweets. They also look for moisture, heat, and covering, such as floor or wall voids, and outdoor stones or logs.
Spiders
Spiders like basements, crawl spaces, closets, garages, woodpiles, and anywhere else that is undisturbed. They also like cardboard boxes, which remind them of their natural habitats.
Stinging Pests
Wasps and other stinging pests tend to be social hunters and fierce defenders of their colonies. Watch for nests in eaves and other covered areas outdoors and don’t attempt to remove nests on your own.
Rodents
Mice and rats can squeeze into any space they can get their head into, which for some is as small as a ¼-½ inch.
Other Pests
Other pests like cockroaches, bed bugs, and termites can also be common household pests seeking food or shelter.
Have Pests in Your Home? Give Us a Call
Are you worried about common household infestations? The Green Pest Pros have locations across the country and our experts are ready to help! Contact us today and we can put you in contact with your local Green Pest Pro!
