The holiday season brings joy, gatherings, and beautiful decorations, but it also creates opportunities for pests to invade your home. Christmas trees, wreaths, and festive décor can sometimes bring hidden bugs and critters indoors, while the cold weather outside encourages rodents to seek warmth. Russell’s Pest Control shares five top pest control tips to ensure your home stays pest-free this holiday season:
1. Inspect Stored Décor for Pests
Before you bring out holiday decorations, inspect storage boxes for signs of rodent activity. Mice love undisturbed spaces, often nesting in holiday boxes left in attics or garages. Look for droppings, chewed materials, and shredded paper. If you see these signs, consider disposing of contaminated items and replacing frayed or damaged lights to prevent fire hazards.
2. Check Trees and Greenery for Hitchhiking Pests
Fresh wreaths, garlands, and Christmas trees can be a perfect hiding spot for insects like spiders and aphids. Give them a shake outdoors and inspect branches for egg sacs or webs. Even if your tree has been pre-treated, an extra check can prevent unwanted critters from making a surprise appearance in your holiday decorations.
3. Remove Outdoor Yard Debris
Fallen leaves, shrubs, and woodpiles near your home create excellent hiding spots for pests. Clearing these areas will discourage pests from settling near your house. Firewood should be stored off the ground and at least 20 feet from your home to prevent pests from hitching a ride indoors when you bring in wood for cozy fires.
4. Tidy Up After Holiday Feasts
Food spills and crumbs left out after meals can be a feast for pests like ants, roaches, and rodents. Take a few minutes to clean up thoroughly after each meal by wiping down counters, sweeping floors, and storing leftovers securely. Even small crumbs can attract pests, so prompt cleanups are essential to keep your kitchen pest-free.
5. Store Holiday Decorations in Pest-Proof Containers
When it’s time to pack up your decorations, use durable containers with locking lids instead of cardboard boxes. Rodents can easily chew through cardboard, but plastic bins with tight lids offer a solid barrier, keeping your decorations safe and secure for next year.
Celebrate the Holidays Without Pests with Russell’s Pest Control
Russell’s Pest Control is here to keep your home safe, pest-free, and worry-free all year long. Contact us today for professional pest solutions and enjoy a worry-free holiday season with your loved ones!
5 Essential Tips for a Pest-Free Holiday Season in Knoxville TN
Serving East Tennessee since 1971
