Summer is finally here, and while that means plenty of outdoor fun, it also means the arrival of unwanted guests in the form of pests. From mosquitoes to ants and everything in between, pests can quickly become a nuisance that can ruin your summer experience. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to keep your home and outdoor spaces pest-free this summer. In this blog post, we’ll review tips and tricks to help you keep pests away and enjoy the season to the fullest.
Watch for Standing Water
Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, so it’s crucial to eliminate it as much as possible. Pools of water can accumulate in various places, including flower pots, bird baths, and gutters. Be sure to empty and clean these containers regularly, and remember to check for leaks in outdoor hoses and sprinklers. Additionally, consider installing screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes and other pests from entering your home.
Keep the Garage Clean
The garage can be a popular spot for pests like mice and cockroaches, especially if cluttered and dirty. To keep your garage pest-free, clean it regularly and avoid storing food or pet food there. Seal any cracks or holes in the walls and floors to prevent pests from entering, and keep the doors closed as much as possible. If you are working on outdoor projects or kids are playing outside, it’s natural to keep the garage door open throughout the day, but consider shutting it when you can.
Watch Opening Doors
Summer is when we love to keep our doors open to let in the fresh air, but this can also let in a variety of pests. Be mindful of leaving doors open, especially in the evening when mosquitoes and other insects are most active. Use screens to cover doors and windows to let in air while keeping the bugs out. It’s also an excellent time to teach young children to be sure they shut the door behind them when they enter and exit the house.
Watch for Gaps in Windows and Screens
As mentioned earlier, keeping screens on windows and doors is essential to keep pests out. However, if these screens have gaps or tears, they can be ineffective. Regularly inspect your screens for any damage and repair them as needed. Additionally, ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent gaps that pests can use as entry points.
Hosting on the Patio
Summer is a time for outdoor entertaining, but hosting on the patio can attract unwanted pests. To minimize the risk, keep food covered when not being served and promptly dispose of any scraps or leftovers. Consider using insect-repelling candles or fans to keep pests at bay, and if necessary, use bug spray on yourself and your guests.
Gardening Tips
While gardens can be a beautiful addition to your outdoor space, they can also attract pests. To keep pests from damaging your plants, try using companion planting methods. This involves planting certain species of plants together that can help repel pests naturally. Additionally, regularly prune and weed your garden to minimize hiding places for pests.
Mosquito Prevention
Mosquitoes are a particular nuisance in the summer, but there are several ways to keep them at bay. Wear long sleeves and pants outside during peak mosquito hours, and use mosquito repellent on your skin and clothing. Remove any standing water in your yard, and consider using mosquito-repelling plants such as citronella or lemongrass.
Check Pets and Kids
Pets and kids can unknowingly attract pests into your home and outdoor spaces. Regularly check your pets for fleas and ticks, and keep them clean and groomed. Ensure kids wear shoes and long pants when playing outside and check for any bites or stings after playtime.
Keeping your home and outdoor spaces pest-free this summer requires effort, but the results are well worth it. By following these tips and tricks, you can minimize the risk of pests ruining your summer experience and enjoy your time outside to the fullest.
Work with PestShield
PestShield is committed to keeping our customers’ homes safe and pest-free this summer and year-round. Whether you have our in-wall pest control system installed or require traditional pest control treatments, our expert team will help eliminate the problem and go through preventative measures to shield your home from a future infestation. We would love to help with your questions and pest-control needs, so do not hesitate to contact us today!