They’re in your bathroom, they’re in your kitchen. Tips to rid your OH home of winter bugs
There are many reasons to appreciate an Ohio, but spotting critters in our house is definitely not one of them. Once you get past being completely icked out, it’s time to get proactive about pest prevention.
Here are some of the most common insects that are trying to invade your home during the cooler months and a few ways to keep them out.
Common winter critters
Stink Bugs: These pests are notorious for entering homes in large numbers as they search for warmth. Their distinctive smell makes their presence indoors particularly unwelcome.
Boxelder Bugs: These insects are also trying to find their way out of the cold, and they enter through cracks and gaps. They’re mostly harmless but their sheer number can be a nuisance
Spiders: Spider species like the brown recluse or wolf spider, often seek shelter indoors during colder months. While they do help to control other insect populations, you may want them to stay outside.
Cockroaches: Although more active in summer, cockroaches may still enter homes during winter in search of food and warmth.
Silverfish: You’ve no doubt found these bugs in your bathrooms and kitchens since they crave moist, humid areas.
Ways to keep them where they belong
To reduce winter pests invading your home, consider a few of these preventative strategies.
Seal entry points: Inspect your home for cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations. Caulk or weather stripping can effectively do most sealing jobs.
Install door sweeps: Fit door sweeps on exterior doors to block gaps at the bottom.
Maintain Screens: Just like screens come in handy in the summer to keep mosquitoes out, intact screens can prevent insects from entering.
Keep a clean home: Sweeping, vacuuming and frequent mopping go a long way to keep the pests at bay. You should also store food in airtight containers.
Repair any leaks: Standing water can attract pests looking for moisture sources.
Declutter: Reduce hiding spots for pests. This could mean organizing storage areas that have long been left unattended and keeping surfaces clear.
Trim vegetation: Trim trees and shrubs away from your home to prevent pests from using them as bridges to access your property.
Schedule professional pest control: Consider hiring a pest control service for regular inspections and treatments.
Every creature has its place, but the place for these creepy-crawlies is firmly outside. Let us know if you have any tips on how to keep your house protected from unwanted pests.
