When the cold weather hits, bugs and other pests seek shelter to get warm – oftentimes in your toasty home. There are ways you can protect your home from pests this winter, and part of that is having a trusted Boise exterminator on speed dial just in case your DIY efforts fail. Here’s a look at the top three most common winter pests in Idaho and what you can do to keep them out.
1. Box Elder Bugs
These red and black bugs are annoying, to be sure, but this year they’re even more active. It’s not so bad to have one or two hanging out in your home, but when they start to multiply and gang up on you, it’s time to do something about it.
They tend to gather on warm surfaces when it’s cold out. While technically a harmless nuisance because they don’t pose a threat to humans, box elders are still not the kind of pest you want to share your home with. If you see them, don’t crush them in a tissue or step on them, as they will emit a stinky liquid that only serves to attract other bugs. That liquid can also stain your floors and walls.
It’s best to just vacuum them up and then get rid of the sealed bag.
2. Ants
Ants don’t like being cold and wet, and they get really hungry in the winter. Your kitchen and pantry are their favorite places, so don’t leave crumbs out and always do a nightly cleanup of your kitchen before bed.
Even if one ant takes one crumb back to their nest, this leaves a scented trail that all the other ants in the colony will follow. Before you know it, you have an ant infestation on your hands.
3. Spiders
The most common spiders found in Boise include wolf spiders, jumping spiders, hobo spiders, black widows, cellar spiders, and brown recluse spiders. Spiders are not fans of the cold. That’s why they’re looking to stay warm and cozy in the nooks and crannies of your house. Here are a few ways you can spider-proof your Idaho home this winter.
- Spray peppermint oil and water
- Seal any cracks
- Use vinegar and water on all crevices
- Scatter cinnamon sticks, as they don’t like the strong scent
- Rub citrus peels over your window sills
- Turn off the lights, as spiders are attracted to bright lights
- Maintain a regular cleaning routine, including clearing cobwebs when you see them
Other things you can do to keep all three pests at bay is to seal your food tightly, take out the garbage regularly, keep your yard well trimmed, and wipe down counters daily.
Contact Eco Pest Control in Boise, ID
If any of these three common winter pests has been giving you a hard time, call our Boise pest control experts today. We will give you a free quote and schedule an inspection when you contact us at 208-600-8734.
