Top Tips to Minimize Pest Problems This Holiday Season


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The holiday season is here! It’s exciting to prepare a Thanksgiving meal and pull out the Christmas tree. As you are bringing boxes of holiday decorations out of storage, it’s an opportunity for unwanted pests to move into your living space.

Not only can pests hitchhike on the holiday decorations, but they are also looking for food, water, and shelter – especially as the weather cools down for the season. Consider these common pest control concerns during the holiday season, and a few things you can do to keep the insects and rodents away from your family celebrations:

Check Live Trees and Wreaths

It’s nice to have the fresh scent of pine in your home. But trees, wreaths, and garland can be the perfect way for pests to come inside. Carefully inspect each item before bringing them into your house. In addition to looking for live insects, also look for eggs and nests. Always shake the tree outside (away from the house) to knock anything off that might be hidden in the branches.

Inspect Storage Bins

It’s common for pests to use storage boxes for nesting, especially if your holiday items are kept in cardboard boxes. Check around the bins for signs of pests, including bugs and rodent droppings. Also, look inside the boxes for dead bugs, gnaw marks, or anything else that could indicate unwanted visitors. Don’t forget to inspect the Christmas lights for signs of chewing, because exposed wires could be a fire threat.

Travelers: Be Careful About Bed Bugs

If you are hitting the road during the holiday season, then always check the hotel bedding for signs of bed bugs. You’ll see skin shedding, live bugs, or reddish-brown spots on the bed sheets. Check the bed, furniture, curtains, box springs, and even the baseboards. Also, make sure to inspect your luggage before loading it into the car and taking it home.

Pest Control Services Throughout the Year

We are sending you and your family our best wishes during this holiday season! If you encounter any pest control concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are always just a phone call away. Contact Riche’s Termite and Pest Service at (951) 233-7697.