In the winter, it is always good to do some cleanup around the house, as moulds and mildews have a chance to grow in cooler waters. In addition, pests also tend to intrude on your homes this time of year, so it’s a great idea to take care of that problem as well! So, we’ve shared our favourite 3 Winter Cleaning Tips below!
3 Winter Cleaning Tips To Stay Pest Free
1. Cleaning Out All The Clutter
Clean out your closets and under your beds to get rid of unwanted pests such as mice, ants, spiders and other insects. This process should be done in the spring anyway, so remove anything you don’t need anymore. Donate or throw away these items for a cleaner home.
Check for cracks or gaps in foundations, windows and doors that might allow pests entry into the house. Pests can fit through a hole as small as 1/2 inch wide, so check all-around your house to ensure an animal cannot enter. Pests that can fit into your home include raccoons, squirrels and mice. If you do find a gap or an area where pests can get in, patch up the crack with some sturdy weather stripping and seal it off with caulk for good measure.
2. Wash Every Surface Thoroughly
Wash your walls and windows from top to bottom to get rid of dirt, spider webs and any other substances that have been allowed to grow over the winter. Washing these areas gets rid of dead cells where moulds can feed, so they will stop growing.
Pests rely on warmth and water to survive, so make sure you aren’t providing them with either. They don’t need much — just a crack or an unsealed pipe can be enough to provide a warm, moist area for pests to thrive in. Pests that might come looking for warmth and water include mice, bats and frogs. Make sure all your pipes are sealed and insulated. Pests cannot survive long without water.
3. Use Steam To Deep Clean
Steam clean your carpets and couches to get rid of dirt, dust mites or any other unwanted bacteria that may have made themselves at home this winter. Infestations can be prevented with proper cleaning throughout the winter, so make sure you are washing dishes, mopping floors and dusting surfaces on a regular basis to reduce pest populations in your home. Pests that might come looking for food include: mice, raccoons and squirrels. They might also come looking for water in the winter, so make sure your dishes are clean and the floor is dry after mopping.
In wintertime, pests have a tendency to find their way into your living space, whether it is mice, raccoons or other animals. Pests can carry a number of dangerous diseases and parasites, including Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, which can be life-threatening if not treated.
There You Have It!
By doing a little bit of cleanup before winter hits, you will be able to prepare for upcoming cold weather, ensuring that you keep yourself and your family safe.
Pest Detective provides quality, effective pest control services for British Columbia, including Greater Vancouver and the Coast & Mountains.
Call Us Today! 1-800-709-6469
