Nobody sets out to attract pests. Yet without realising it, plenty of us roll out the welcome mat through everyday habits around the house and garden. Some infestations are far harder to shift than others, so prevention is well worth the effort.
Below are some of the most common ways homes invite pests in, often without the owner having any idea. Tackle these and you’ll make your property a much less appealing target.
Rubbish bins
Waste appeals to nearly every pest going. Indoor bins draw insects, while outdoor bins attract foxes, birds and rodents. Keep every bin tightly sealed and empty it before it overflows.
Food
Spillages, crumbs, uncleaned surfaces and food left out in the open are all an open invitation. Wipe up promptly and store food in airtight containers wherever you can. Keep an eye on the fruit bowl too, because overripe fruit attracts flies, and flies multiply fast.
Clutter
To a pest, a cluttered loft, garage or shed is a dream home. The room gives them shelter, and the clutter provides hiding places and nesting material in one go. These spaces are often left undisturbed for months, which only makes them more attractive. A regular clear-out removes both the cover and the comfort.
Garden
An overgrown garden is a prime spot for pests to breed and nest. You might not mind them out there, but they rarely stay put once they’re hungry, and a short hop indoors follows. Some will even climb the side of the house in search of food, damaging gutters and roofing along the way.
Pet food
Pests are just as keen on pet food as they are on yours. Keep it off the floor and store it in airtight containers to keep rodents away. Be especially careful with food left outside for a cat or dog to come back to, because any mouse or rat nearby will treat it as a free meal.
Bird feeding
Feeding the local birds can quietly invite less welcome visitors too. Spilled seed on the ground is exactly what draws mice and rats. Placing a tray beneath your feeders catches the fallout and keeps it off the lawn, so you can enjoy the birds without feeding the rodents.
If you’ve already noticed pests in your home or garden, call our pest removal team. We’ll clear the problem, and by following the steps above you can keep future visitors at bay. We’re open every day except Christmas Day, from early until late.