Introduction

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets cooler, you might notice some unwanted guests trying to move into your home. These are fall pests, and they’re looking for a warm place to spend the winter. But don’t worry! This guide will teach you all about fall pests and how to keep them out of your house.

What Are Fall Pests?

Fall pests are insects and small animals that try to get into our homes when the weather starts to get cold. They’re looking for food, water, and a cozy place to live. Some common fall pests include:

1. Spiders: These eight-legged creatures like to hide in corners and dark places.
2. Stink Bugs: These shield-shaped bugs make a stinky smell when they’re scared.
3. Mice and Rats: These furry critters can squeeze through tiny holes to get inside.
4. Ants: Even though we see ants all year, they can be extra annoying in the fall.
5. Boxelder Bugs: These black and orange bugs like to gather on sunny walls.
6. Ladybugs: While they’re cute, some types of ladybugs can become a nuisance in large numbers.

To learn more about these and other fall pests, check out this helpful guide from the University of Minnesota Extension.

Why Do Pests Come Inside in the Fall?

Fall pests come into our homes for a few reasons:

• They’re looking for a warm place to spend the winter
• They want to find food and water
• Some pests are naturally more active in the fall

Understanding why pests come inside can help us keep them out.

How to Keep Fall Pests Out of Your Home

Now that we know why fall pests want to come inside, let’s talk about how to stop them. Here are some easy ways to protect your home:

1. Seal Up Your House

Pests can get in through tiny cracks and holes. To keep them out:

• Check around windows and doors for gaps
• Look for holes where pipes or wires enter your house
• Use caulk or steel wool to fill any openings you find

2. Keep Your Yard Tidy

A messy yard can attract pests. To make your yard less inviting:

• Rake up leaves and grass clippings
• Keep firewood stacked away from your house
• Trim bushes and trees so they don’t touch your house

3. Clean Up Inside

A clean house is less attractive to pests. Here’s what to do:

• Sweep and vacuum regularly
• Wipe down counters after cooking
• Store food in airtight containers
• Take out the trash often

4. Control Moisture

Many pests love damp places. To keep your house dry:

• Fix leaky pipes and faucets
• Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements
• Make sure your gutters are clean and working properly

5. Use Natural Repellents

Some plants and smells can help keep pests away:

• Plant mint, lavender, or chrysanthemums around your house
• Use essential oils like peppermint or tea tree oil as a natural spray

For more tips on natural pest control, visit the National Pesticide Information Center’s page on less toxic pest management.

What to Do If You Already Have Pests

Sometimes, no matter what we do, pests still get inside. If you find pests in your home:

1. Identify the Pest: Knowing what kind of pest you’re dealing with can help you get rid of it.
2. Remove Food Sources: Clean up any crumbs or open food that might be attracting pests.
3. Set Traps: For mice or rats, you can use humane traps to catch and release them outside.
4. Use Natural Remedies: For bugs, try using diatomaceous earth or boric acid in areas where you’ve seen them.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried everything and still have pests, it might be time to call in the experts. At Pest Asset, we know all about fall pests and how to get rid of them safely. Our team can:

• Find out exactly what kinds of pests are in your home
• Figure out how they’re getting in
• Use safe methods to get rid of them
• Give you tips to keep pests away in the future

Conclusion

Fall pests can be annoying, but with the right know-how, you can keep them out of your home. Remember to seal up holes, keep your house clean, and control moisture. If pests are still bugging you, don’t hesitate to reach out to Pest Asset. We’re here to help you enjoy a pest-free fall!

Take action today to protect your home from fall pests. Your cozy, pest-free home is just a phone call away!

For more information on pest control and keeping your home bug-free, check out these helpful resources:

• EPA’s Integrated Pest Management in Schools
• USDA’s Household Insects Information

Remember, a pest-free home is a happy home. Stay prepared, and enjoy the beautiful fall season without unwanted guests!