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Hi, I’m Luis Gonzalez, and welcome to another episode of the What’s Bugging You? podcast, brought to you by Midway Pest Management. As the winter months approach in Kansas City, many of us are focused on keeping warm and cozy indoors. However, while we’re hunkered down inside, pests like ants, spiders, and cockroaches are often still active or even increasing in number. Yes, it’s true—winter can actually lead to a rise in indoor pests, and if left unchecked, they can cause significant problems. Today, I’ll share some tips on how to keep your home safe from pests this winter, so you can enjoy a pest-free season.
Common Winter Pests in Kansas City
Even though the temperatures drop, certain pests that live inside your home tend to stay active throughout the colder months. In fact, winter can bring more problems with pests that are looking for warmth and food in our homes.
- Ants: Some species of ants remain active in the winter, especially in heated homes. They are commonly found in kitchens, attracted to food sources and moisture.
- Spiders: As the weather cools down, spiders often seek shelter indoors, hiding in attics, basements, and closets. While most spiders are harmless, their presence can be unsettling.
- Cockroaches: Cockroaches are very resilient pests and can survive indoors throughout the year. Winter actually makes it easier for them to thrive, as they search for food and warmth, particularly in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.
How I Prevent Winter Pests from Invading My Home
As a homeowner in Kansas City, I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to keep my home pest-free during the winter. Here’s what I do, and what you can do, too, to prevent pests from making their way into your space:
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: Ants, spiders, and cockroaches can find their way inside through the smallest cracks. I always make sure to caulk any gaps around windows, doors, and plumbing. It’s also important to check the seals on windows and doors to make sure they are tight. A thorough inspection for any gaps can go a long way in preventing pests from getting inside.
- Keep My Kitchen Clean and Store Food Properly: Ants and cockroaches are drawn to food, so I make it a priority to keep my kitchen spotless. I store food in airtight containers and clean up spills, crumbs, and food debris immediately. Ensuring that food is properly stored reduces the chance of attracting pests.
- Remove Clutter: Pests like spiders and cockroaches love to hide in cluttered areas. I’ve learned that keeping my attic, basement, and closets organized makes a big difference. I get rid of old boxes, piles of clothes, or papers where pests can nest and thrive.
- Monitor Moisture: Excess moisture is a big draw for pests like cockroaches and ants. I always keep an eye on leaky pipes and make sure there’s proper ventilation in damp areas like basements and bathrooms. Fixing leaks as soon as I spot them helps prevent the buildup of moisture that attracts pests.
What to Do If I Find an Infestation
If I ever discover pests in my home, I know that it’s important to act quickly. The longer I wait, the harder it can be to get rid of them. While DIY methods can help with small issues, I always contact a professional pest control service if I’m dealing with an infestation. They can identify the source of the problem, apply appropriate treatments, and make sure the pests are eradicated effectively.
A professional pest control expert will also provide valuable advice on how to prevent future infestations. They’ll help with things like sealing cracks and offering long-term pest management solutions.
Winter can bring a variety of pests into our homes, but with the right precautions, I’ve learned to keep my home safe and comfortable. By sealing cracks, keeping food properly stored, removing clutter, and controlling moisture, I can ensure that my Kansas City home stays pest-free during the cold months. If you suspect an infestation or simply want peace of mind, don’t hesitate to call Midway Pest Management for a professional inspection. They’re always ready to help keep your home warm, comfortable, and pest-free. Stay warm, and stay bug-free this winter!