In the Pacific Northwest, especially the western side, winters are usually milder compared to other areas throughout the country. Because of this, pests may continue to be present and active. In the PNW, common winter pests include rodents, spiders, cockroaches, and some ants.
While many pests enter into a dormant or hibernation phase, pests like rodents, spiders, cockroaches, and ants remain active year-round. While the outdoor temperatures may affect them and slow them down, their behavior and activity level return to normal as soon as they find warmer conditions. Pests like these commonly seek shelter indoors where they have access to warmer temperatures. Households are common places for these pests to live during the wintertime, not only for the warmer temperatures but also because of their easy access to food and water sources.
Luckily, there are many things you can do to prevent pests from entering your home this winter. Because rodents, spiders, cockroaches, and ants seek shelter indoors, it is important to ensure that your home is tightly sealed and does not have any openings. It is vital to perform thorough inspections of your home, checking for any cracks and gaps along the home’s foundation and walls. Use materials such as caulk to ensure your home is sealed properly. You may also consider installing or replacing your home’s weatherstripping to ensure that your doors and windows are tightly sealed and to prevent pests from squeezing through these small openings.
While pests are attracted to warm environments in the winter, they are also attracted to food and water as it is needed for their survival. By keeping your home clean, you can help eliminate food debris throughout the house. Regularly vacuum, wipe off countertops, and sweep your floors to help keep your home susceptible to forgotten crumbs. You may also consider keeping your pet food stored away properly. Pet food is equally as attractive as real food to pests and is often much easier for pests to access. Keep your pet food stored in air-tight sealed containers and regularly keep your animal’s feeding area clean.
Pests have incredible senses of smell and can be attracted to areas with the slightest hint of food. It can be beneficial to keep lids on top of trash cans and to regularly take the trash out. This prevents pests from easily accessing the food in your trash can and can help eliminate odors that may attract pests to your kitchen area. It is equally important to keep your outdoor trash bins secured with lids and to occasionally clean out your trash cans to help eliminate odors. Consider using a power washer or hose to spray the trash can down. Use vinegar or Dawn dish soap to help clean the inside of your trashcan to help keep the trash can from smelling like old food and other debris.
If you have persistent pest problems in your home or area this winter, consider calling your local Insight Pest Solutions. We are always happy to help and want the best for you and your home. To avoid pests in your home, regular inspections are essential and it can be difficult to do so on your own. Our trained technicians have expert knowledge when it comes to treating pests. Call us today at (888) 414-1430 for a free quote and more information!
