You’re airing out the rugs, cleaning out the closets, and scrubbing the floors. You’re trimming the trees, mowing the lawn, and planting a garden. But as you go about your spring cleaning, remember that many pests come out when the weather warms up. From ants and spiders to mice and rats, pests may enter your home looking for food, water, or shelter.

Thankfully, you can avoid most pest problems by keeping your home clean and sealed off from even the smallest critters. Keep pests out by applying these spring cleaning tips from the experts at Proterra Pest Control.

Over the winter, it’s easy to let clutter pile up in the garage, basement, or attic. These are all places where critters make their first point of entry into the home, so it’s important to clean and organize these areas regularly to keep the pests away. Get rid of items you’re not using, and make sure the space is clean and free of debris, which could be a welcome home to pests.

You may think doors, windows, and walls are enough to keep pests out. But even larger pests can make their way through tiny entry points around your house. This is why spring is a great time of year to inspect your foundation, walls, doors, and windows for cracks and holes that may be an entry spot for pests. Seal cracks and gaps with caulking or weather stripping to avoid pest problems all year round.

From mosquitos to rats, many pests are drawn to your home because of moisture and standing water. And as the world thaws out in the spring, you may have areas of collected water of which you aren’t even aware. Take time this spring to walk around your property and inside your home. Fix any leaky pipes and remove standing water to keep pests away.

Sometimes spiders and other insects head to your electrical boxes to settle in for the winter. Rats and mice might nest in your attic and chew wiring while they’re there. Unfortunately, damaged wiring could be a hazard for your family, so it’s important to inspect all of your wiring and electrical systems in the spring to make sure they’re in good shape—and pest-free.

Following these cleaning tips for spring will help you eliminate the chance of pest problems in the warmer months to come. Still, it’s always best to hire a professional pest control company to service your home regularly. Contact Proterra Pest Control today to learn about our custom pest control plan for your home.