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Writer's pictureDonna M

Keep Your Home Pest-Free for the Holidays

It’s that time of year that we all want to feel cozy indoors! Warm blankets, hot cocoa, maybe a movie or an evening in front of the fireplace.

Mouse in a Santa hat

Well, the pests agree with you too! The indoors is dry, warm, and ready to become a winter haven! So how do you prepare your home to ward off those pesky unwanted visitors during the winter season? We’ve compiled a series of simple things YOU can do to keep the cozy in and the pests out. Continue below for some ideas.


  • Weather-stripping around doors and windows is a barrier to prevent moisture as well as outside pests from entering the home. Replace old weather-stripping around these areas to prevent pest intrusion.

  • Make sure the attic is dry, and there is adequate ventilation. Some pests like to use attics as a nesting place to raise their young; therefore, sealed off any entry points.

Fix your screens and screen doors

  • Check those screens! Screens are prone to rips and tears, which create entry points for pests. Check the windows, security doors, attic vents, and the opening to the chimney and secure or replace damaged screens.

  • Take out that trash! Kitchen trash cans are a buffet for hungry pests. Keep garbage in well-sealed containers and frequently empty into outside garbage cans.

  • Check the pipes under the kitchen sink, bathroom vanity, and in the laundry room around the piping. Look for signs of leakage and eliminated source of moisture.

  • Use a dehumidifier in areas prone to moisture and dampness, such as crawl spaces, attics, and basements.

  • Keep the kitchen clean by wiping down counters to remove crumbs that are an excellent food resource for pests on the prowl. Sweep floors to eliminate any food tidbits and don’t leave food sitting out; put it away immediately.

  • Run the vacuum cleaner at least once a week.

  • Eat up your fruits and veggies! Overripe fruit left on the kitchen counter is like waving a flag that says “free food” for fruit flies.

Fruit flies on an orange

  • Wipeout and wash pet food bowls as any food left sitting inside will attract pests, such as ants.

  • Store dry pet food in a secure plastic tub or container versus their original paper material as some pests can eat through the bag.

  • Keep pests off your pets! Keep your indoor and outdoor pets free of fleas and ticks with a quality pest preventative recommended by your pet’s veterinarian. Both these pests will invade the home and multiply, creating an unhealthy environment.

  • Pest-prevent your garage! If your home has an attached garage or a storage shed, check the interior and exterior of these areas as well for signs of leaking or unsecured doors and windows where pests can invade.


Family by the fire

All of these tips can help you keep the pests OUT and winter cheer IN, as part of your comprehensive pest control service. Be sure to work with a reputable, licensed and insured pest management company, like Sentry Pest Control, to get a professional assessment of your pest problem, learn specific treatments for your property, and take that step to year-round pest management!


Ready to enjoy your winter season pest-free? Contact Sentry Pest Control today for a free home inspection and give yourself the gift of year-round pest-control today!




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