Spring is a season of fresh starts, but unfortunately, it’s also the time when pests become more active. As temperatures rise, insects and rodents look for food, water, and shelter—often inside homes. The best way to avoid an infestation is by getting ahead of the problem.
This spring pest checklist will help you protect your home so you can enjoy the season without unwanted guests.
1. Inspect Your Home’s Exterior
Pests can sneak in through the smallest gaps, so start your spring prep by checking the outside of your home.
- Seal Cracks & Gaps – Look for openings around windows, doors, and the foundation. Even tiny cracks can be an entry point for ants, spiders, or even mice. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal them up.
- Check Screens – Window and door screens are your first line of defense against flying insects like mosquitoes. Replace or repair any torn screens before the bugs arrive.
- Look at Your Roof & Gutters – Clogged gutters can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Clear out debris and check for any gaps where pests could enter.
2. Keep Your Yard Tidy
Your outdoor space can invite pests if not maintained properly.
- Trim Trees & Shrubs – Overgrown branches touching your home give ants, rodents, and even termites easy access. Keep plants at least a foot away from your house.
- Clear Yard Debris – Piles of leaves, wood, and mulch hold moisture, which attracts pests. Keep firewood stored away from your home and rake up leaves regularly.
- Remove Standing Water – Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Empty birdbaths, plant saucers, and any containers that collect rainwater.
3. Secure Food & Water Sources
Pests invade homes looking for food and water. If they don’t find what they need, they’ll move on.
- Store Food Properly – Keep dry goods like cereal, rice, and pet food in airtight containers to prevent pantry pests.
- Fix Leaky Pipes & Faucets – Cockroaches and rodents need water to survive. Repair any plumbing leaks to remove this resource.
- Clean Up After Meals – Wipe down counters, sweep floors, and avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
4. Be Proactive About Pest Prevention
Even with all these precautions, some pests may still try to sneak in. Take extra steps to keep them out.
- Use Natural Deterrents – Certain scents, like peppermint oil, vinegar, and citrus, can help repel pests. Try using them in problem areas.
- Set Traps & Baits – For common pests like ants or mice, place traps in areas where activity is likely, such as near baseboards or under sinks.
- Schedule a Professional Inspection – A pest control expert can identify early signs of infestation and provide treatment before it becomes a bigger issue.
Stay Ahead of Pests This Spring
Spring is a time to enjoy the outdoors, not battle pests inside your home. By following this checklist, you can take simple but effective steps to keep bugs and rodents out.
If you need extra protection, consider a seasonal pest control service. Professional treatments create a barrier around your home, stopping infestations before they start.
Need help keeping your home pest-free? Contact Genuine Pest Control today for expert advice and service.
