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Even the cleanest homes can play host to unwanted guests. Pests like ants, cockroaches, rodents, and spiders don’t need much to feel at home—just a little food, water, and shelter. The trickiest part? You may be unintentionally rolling out the welcome mat without even realizing it.
Here are five surprisingly common things in your home that could be attracting pests—and what you can do to stop them.
1. Cluttered Spaces and Storage Areas
Pests love hiding in dark, quiet areas with lots of hiding spots. Stacks of cardboard boxes, piles of clothes, or overflowing closets provide the perfect habitat. Rodents, in particular, seek out cluttered storage spaces to build nests, while spiders and insects hide in undisturbed corners.
What to do: Regularly clean and organize storage areas. Store items in sealed plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes, and reduce unnecessary clutter where pests can hide.
2. Unsealed Food and Crumbs
Even a few forgotten crumbs on the kitchen floor or an open bag of pet food can send a strong signal to pests. Ants, cockroaches, and rodents are especially drawn to easy food sources, including pet bowls, sugar containers, and pantry snacks.
What to do: Store all food—including pet food—in airtight containers. Clean countertops, floors, and under appliances regularly to eliminate crumbs and spills.
3. Leaky Faucets and Standing Water
Moisture is one of the biggest pest attractants. Leaky pipes, dripping faucets, and even overwatered houseplants can create the perfect environment for pests like silverfish, cockroaches, and mosquitoes.
What to do: Fix any plumbing issues as soon as possible. Avoid leaving standing water in sinks or trays under houseplants, and use a dehumidifier in damp spaces like basements.
4. Cracks and Gaps Around the Home
Tiny openings around doors, windows, or utility lines act like highways for pests. Rodents can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter, and insects need even less space to get in.
What to do: Seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens to block pest entry points.
5. Firewood and Outdoor Debris Stored Too Close
Keeping firewood, mulch, or yard debris too close to your home can attract termites, ants, and spiders. These pests often move from the woodpile to your walls before you even realize they’re there.
What to do: Store firewood at least 20 feet from your home and keep it raised off the ground. Regularly clean up leaves and other organic debris near the foundation.
Don’t Let Pests Make Themselves at Home
Most pest problems start small and unnoticed. By identifying these hidden attractants in your home, you can take proactive steps to prevent infestations before they start.
Still noticing signs of pests? It’s time to bring in the professionals. Contact Paragon Pest Control today at (972) 449-4233 to schedule an inspection or learn more about how we can help keep your home pest-free, year-round.