With spring in the air, pests have come out of hibernation — meaning it’s time for homeowners to start their annual pest control measures. Keep insects and rodents out of your house this spring with a few pest cleaning tips that promote healthy, critter-free living spaces. The right spring cleaning plan will make your home considerably less attractive to unwelcome “guests.”

5 Cleaning Tips That Promote Pest Control

1. Never Leave Food Out & Wipe Up Residue

Place food in sealed, airtight containers to avoid attracting vermin and insects. Keep your home free of food crumbs and residue by regularly wiping down surfaces with white vinegar-water solutions and using your vacuum. Also, keep your interior trash cans and exterior garage cans sealed to prevent infestations.

2. Remove “Pathways” to Your Home

Seal your home off with caulk to avoid creating pathways inside for pests. Apply it to gaps around your home’s windows as well as cracks in the foundation. Use weatherstripping materials around doors and trim tree branches near your roof and windows to make your home as inaccessible as possible.

3. Eliminate Standing Water

Inspect your property for standing water, such as water on your pool cover, in unused planters, or on your driveway. Pests are attracted to standing water, and mosquitos lay their eggs in it. If you have bird baths on your property, replace them with running water versions.

4. Check for Leaks

Look under all of your sinks for leaks as part of springtime pest control. Check for signs of leaks as well, such as stained ceilings and bubbling wall paint, to schedule timely repairs from your local plumber. Ants, cockroaches, and termites are just some of the insects that gravitate towards moisture.

5. Remove Clutter

Clutter creates shelter for mice and insects. Dedicate a day to sorting and culling your belongings, and place anything you want to keep in storage in airtight plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes. Also eliminate property clutter, including piles of lawn debris, to keep insects and vermin away. If you have a firewood pile at home, move it at least 20 feet away from your house to prevent termite invasions.

 

If you have an existing infestation, call the exterminators at 24-7 Animal & Pest Control in Saint Louis, MO. The wildlife and pest control company has provided the region with effective solutions for 14 years and offers 24/7 services for your convenience and peace of mind. Call (314) 236-7378 today to schedule pest control or learn more about the BBB®-accredited company online. Like them on Facebook for more tips and company updates.