With these pest control tips, you can stop these creepy crawlies and furry intruders before they settle in. Here's what you need to know.
As the days grow shorter and the air gets that crisp autumn chill, pests across Australia start looking for a warm place to ride out the winter. Unfortunately, that often means invading your home. From mice and rats to cockroaches and spiders, these unwanted guests can quickly turn your cosy space into a battleground.
Luckily, with a few smart pest control tips, you can stop these creepy crawlies and furry intruders before they settle in. And if the problem gets out of hand, a professional pest controller from ServiceSeeking.com.au can help keep your home pest-free.
1. Seal the Cracks and Gaps
Rodents can squeeze through the tiniest gaps – even as small as a 5-cent coin! Inspect your home's exterior for cracks around windows, doors, pipes, and vents. Use weather stripping, caulk, or mesh screens to block their entry points. Pay special attention to gaps around garage doors and under sinks, where pests often find easy access. And when in doubt, you can hire a handyman to help ensure the job is done right.
2. Keep Food Stored Properly
Autumn means cooler weather, but it also means pests are on the hunt for food. Keep all pantry items in sealed containers, and don’t leave pet food out overnight. Rodents and insects are drawn to crumbs and food spills, so a quick sweep and wipe-down of your kitchen each night can make a world of difference.
3. Declutter and Remove Hiding Spots
Stacked boxes, piles of wood, and cluttered cupboards provide the perfect hiding spots for pests. Clear out unnecessary clutter in your home and garden, and store firewood at least 20 metres from your house. Spiders, cockroaches, and rodents love dark, undisturbed areas, so the fewer of those you have, the better. A professional cleaner can help ensure your home isn't just decluttered but dust-free, too.
4. Trim Trees and Clean Gutters
Overhanging branches give rodents a perfect bridge straight onto your roof, while clogged gutters create moist environments that attract insects. Hire a professional tree trimmer to trim back tree branches near your home and clear out any leaves or debris from your gutters before winter sets in.
5. Keep Bins Sealed and Rubbish Cleared
Rodents and insects love a good feed, and if your bins aren’t properly sealed, they’ll find a free meal in no time. Use bins with secure lids and empty them regularly. Make sure outdoor bins are positioned away from entry points to your home, and avoid letting rubbish pile up in the yard.
6. Set Traps and Use Natural Repellents
Prevention is better than cure, but if you already suspect rodents are sniffing around, setting traps can help keep their numbers down. For insects, natural repellents like peppermint oil, vinegar sprays, and diatomaceous earth can help deter them from settling in.
7. Book a Professional Pest Control Service
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, pests can still make themselves at home. If you notice droppings, chewed wires, or an increase in creepy crawlies, it’s best to call in the professionals. A licensed pest controller will assess the problem, use safe treatments, and ensure your home is pest-free before winter.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Pests don’t wait for an invitation—they’ll take any opportunity to move in. Taking action now will save you the headache of dealing with a full-blown infestation during winter. If you need expert help, find a trusted pest control professional on ServiceSeeking.com.au and get free quotes from local tradies in minutes.
Keep your home warm and pest-free this autumn—because the only guests you want this winter are the ones you’ve actually invited!
