This spring couldn't come soon enough for most of us. We are so thrilled to finally have temps rising and the sun shining. The newness and freshness of this season causes many of us to want to do some spring cleaning. Taking down the curtains for washing, and emptying out the closets where everyone dumps their stuff are top on a lot of spring cleaning lists. While these are great ideas, we have a few spring cleaning ideas of our own that can not only get you organized and start the season fresh, but also can help prevent pest invasions that happen every spring in our area.
Some simple actions around your home can help prevent or at least diminish pest invasions. For example, ants, rodents, cockroaches, termites, and other insects tend to emerge as the weather improves. By adding some of these pest proofing items to your spring cleaning list, you may find that you see fewer pests.
Do a really deep clean of your kitchen. This means getting under your stove and fridge to all those crumbs and spills that have been sitting there, waiting to be claimed by ants or other insects. During your deep clean, remove everything from your pantry and inspect for pantry pests that may have found their way into your flour or cereals. Wipe down all shelves and use strong plastic containers to store items. Fix drips that may be on-going in your sink. A water source is one of the main draws pests have to invading your kitchen.
Not many people have windows and foundations on their spring cleaning list, but we suggest adding a couple items. Check all windows to be sure that screens are properly fitting and there are no gaps in the framing. The same goes for the foundation. Seal openings even if they seem small. Check vents for utilities that could be access points where pests or rodents could enter your home.
Trim back bushes that could be used as bridges for pests entering your home. Keep firewood away from the structure of your house. Pick up twigs, sticks and other decaying materials from your yard. Remove any stagnant water that may be in your yard including puddles in old tires, frisbees and innocuous items.
These two areas are notoriously dumping grounds where clutter can pile up. Take some time to declutter and neaten up the areas. Pests love to hide in clutter, and can easily find their way into seasonal decorations if not stored properly. Once areas are clean, not only will there be fewer places to hide, but any infestation will be easy to spot.
Spring cleaning can mean a fresh start just as the weather is getting better. Add some of these pest proofing items to your list this year to avoid pests getting comfortable in your home. Contact us at 1-800-287-4321, 603-382-9644, or 978-794-4321 if you have any questions.