Are you planning a well-deserved vacation? As a homeowner, it’s essential to consider the safety and cleanliness of your home while you’re away. Pest infestations can quickly take hold in unattended properties, causing damage and health hazards. In this blog post, we’ll provide valuable tips on protecting your home from pests while you’re away.

Pre-Vacation Preparation

Before embarking on your trip, take some time to prepare your home for your absence. Follow these pre-vacation steps to minimize the risk of pest infestations.

Conduct a Thorough Cleaning

Start by clearing out potential food sources. Empty and clean your refrigerator, pantry, and countertops. Dispose of trash and ensure tight seals on all your outdoor bins. Take the opportunity to conduct a deep clean, paying particular attention to crumbs, spills, and clutter that can attract pests.

Close Off Potential Entry Points

Inspect your home for cracks and crevices that pests could use as entry points. Seal these gaps using caulk or weather stripping. Additionally, check and repair damaged screens on doors, windows, and vents. While at it, secure openings around utility lines to prevent pests from gaining access.

Pest Prevention Measures

Maintaining your home’s exterior is vital to keeping unwanted critters at bay. Implement these pest prevention measures.

Maintain Your Home’s Exterior

Keep trees, shrubs, and branches trimmed away from the exterior of your home, as they can provide a bridge for pests to enter. Regularly clean your gutters and fix any moisture issues, such as leaks and drainage problems, to prevent water buildup; damp environments, like mosquitos, attracts pests.

Arrange for Regular Maintenance Services

Schedule a professional pest inspection before vacation to identify and address potential issues. Consider PestShield’s innovative in-wall pest control solutions, which provide long-lasting protection for your home. Additionally, request outdoor perimeter treatments to create a barrier against pests.

Security Measures

Taking extra security measures while you’re away will protect your home from intruders, both criminals and critters.

Set Up Timers and Lights

Use timers to create the illusion of occupancy inside your home. You can program lights to turn on and off at different times throughout the day. This will deter pests that prefer dark areas and give the impression that someone is home.

Contact a Trusted Neighbor or Friend

Inform a reliable neighbor or friend of your absence and provide them with your contact information. Ask them to check on your home during your vacation periodically. Their presence can help prevent potential pest problems and address any emergencies.

Post-Vacation Actions 

Once you return from your vacation, take specific actions to ensure your home remains pest-free.

Inspect and Clean

Conduct a thorough inspection of your home, both inside and out. Look for signs of pest activity, such as droppings or damage. If you notice any issues, address them promptly. Vacuum and clean all areas, paying particular attention to your luggage, clothing, and other items that may have come into contact with pests.

Schedule Professional Pest Control Services

Consider scheduling professional pest control services to eliminate any pests that may have entered your home while you were away. PestShield offers traditional pest control services that can quickly and effectively eradicate pests. Additionally, discuss ongoing pest control options to maintain a pest-free environment in the long run.

Protecting your home from pests while on vacation is essential for maintaining a clean and safe living environment. Following the tips outlined above, you can minimize the risk of pest infestations and enjoy a worry-free vacation. Remember to conduct a thorough pre-vacation cleaning, close off potential entry points, implement pest prevention measures, and take security measures while away. Inspect and clean your home upon your return, and consider scheduling professional pest control services.

Call PestShield Today

With these proactive steps and the assistance of PestShield, you can safeguard your home and create a clean and safe haven for your family. Enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing your home is protected from pests. Contact us today!