12 Ways You’re Unknowingly Inviting Pests Into Your Home

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No one wants pests in their home — they can and will thoroughly damage your home, spread diseases and allergies, and make you feel generally icky. While a few pests will make their presence known, such as cockroaches under the kitchen sink or ants marching in single file toward your pantry, some can enter your house without becoming detected by you.

But don’t worry; with the following tips, you can identify and eliminate potential pest entry points in your home.

Cracks and Holes on Exterior Walls

Examine the outside walls of your house for openings as small as a quarter of an inch. They may not seem significant, but they can be the doors for pests like mice, rats, and cockroaches. Caulk around these areas or use a mesh screen to cover small openings.

Damaged Window Screens

Window screens keep out insects like mosquitoes, flies, and spiders. But if they are broken or have holes, they are not serving their purpose and allow pests to enter your home. If there is a hole or tear in the window screen, replace it immediately.

Gaps Around Doors

On the other hand, doors are also one of the most common spots where pests can enter an area. Inspect the seals around your doors for any visible gaps or cracks where pests could escape. If necessary, apply weather stripping to make the seal nice and tight so that pests cannot get in.

Overhanging Trees or Shrubs

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Rodents of all kinds and many species of insects can access your home through overhanging tree branches or shrubs. Trim back any trees or shrubs on the exterior of your home so there are no entry points for pests.

Open Chimneys and Vents

Chimneys and vents are preferred points of ingress for pests, particularly birds, squirrels, and raccoons. Ensure adequate covers or screens are installed to prevent pests from your home and allow for proper underfloor ventilation.

Standing Water

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Mosquitoes need something to breed on, and according to ScienceDaily, not many people know that standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Empty flowerpots, bird baths, and gutters to prevent standing water that may serve as breeding sites. You can also put a fountain or aerator in any water feature so that the water is constantly moving, which will stop mosquitoes from laying their eggs.

Open Garbage Bins

Garbage bins are an easy food source for pests like raccoons and rats. Keep your garbage bins tightly closed to prevent these critters from being attracted to your home. Additionally, regularly clean your bins and the area around them to avoid lingering food smells from attracting pests.

Clutter in Your Yard

Pests like cluttered spaces provide hiding places and potential nesting sites. Keep your yard free of clutter, such as piles of wood or debris, to eliminate potential shelter for pests.

Dirty Dishes and Spills

Do not let dirty dishes and spills accumulate, which easily invites pests like ants and cockroaches. If you spill something, clean it up promptly, and do not leave last night’s dishes in the sink. If crumbs are left in the kitchen, pests can easily detect and use them as food sources.

Overripe Fruits and Vegetables

According to a study by the University of Kentucky, overripe fruits and vegetables can attract flies and other pests to your home. Dispose of any overripe produce promptly and keep your kitchen clean to prevent these pests from entering.

Standing Moisture in Your Bathroom

Silverfish and roaches gather in moist environments, and bathrooms are their favorite places. If moisture accumulates or leaks in your bathroom, fix it. Bathrooms can be breeding centers for pests, so prevent this.

Pet Food Left Out Overnight

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Leaving pet food overnight in a pet-friendly area will only attract pests (ants, etc.) into your home. Instead, offer meals to your pets based on a schedule and then clean up any outside remains in contained plastic.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.