Guide to Spring Cleaning for Pest Prevention in Westchester

The kitchen is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to attracting pests. It’s filled with food sources, moisture, and warm spaces—all things pests love. Here's where to focus:

Cabinets and Drawers: Pests like ants, cockroaches, and pantry moths often take refuge in dark, undisturbed areas like kitchen cabinets and drawers. Remove everything from your cabinets and drawers, wipe down the shelves, and check for crumbs, spills, or food packaging that may have holes. Use a vacuum to remove small debris and crumbs from the corners and edges, especially near the back of the shelves where food and water are more likely to accumulate unnoticed.

Countertops: Wipe down all surfaces with a disinfecting cleaner to remove grease, crumbs, and spills. Pay special attention to areas near the sink, stove, and food preparation areas, as these tend to attract ants and roaches.

Under Appliances: Pull out your stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Clean the floors, behind the appliances, and any accessible areas where crumbs, grease, or food scraps may have fallen. These areas are prime spots for pests like cockroaches and mice, so be thorough. If possible, move the fridge and stove to clean underneath them as well.

Pantry: One of the most common places where pests like pantry moths, ants, and rodents thrive is in your pantry. Remove all items, check for any signs of damage or infestation (such as holes in food packages or moths), and wipe down the shelves. Consider storing dry goods like flour, rice, and cereals in airtight containers to reduce the risk of attracting pests.

Basements and attics are often dark, cool, and undisturbed, which makes them ideal hiding spots for pests like rodents, spiders, and termites. These spaces should be cleaned thoroughly, focusing on areas where pests may be nesting or hiding:

Basement: Begin by sweeping the floors to remove dust, debris, and potential food sources. Check around the perimeter of the basement for signs of rodent activity, such as droppings, gnaw marks, or nests. Inspect any areas where plumbing enters the home, as mice and rats often use these openings to gain access to your home. If you have a laundry room in the basement, pay close attention to any cracks in the foundation or gaps around the pipes.

Attic: Attics can be a favorite home for pests like mice, ants, and even termites. Sweep and vacuum corners and hard-to-reach areas to remove dust, webs, and any pests. If your attic is used for storage, check boxes for any signs of infestation, such as droppings or chewed-up material. Ensure that vents and windows are tightly sealed to prevent pest entry.

Windows and doors are often the primary entry points for many pests. Even the smallest gap or crack can invite ants, spiders, and other pests inside. Here's how to ensure your windows and doors are sealed tight:

Windowsills: Inspect windowsills for dust, cobwebs, and droppings. Clean thoroughly to remove any hiding places for pests like spiders or ants. Pay attention to any cracks around window frames and sills, which can serve as entry points for insects. Consider applying a fresh coat of caulk to seal any gaps.

Door Frames: Check the weather stripping around doors to ensure it's in good condition. If the seal is broken or worn down, replace it. Pests like ants and cockroaches can easily slip through tiny gaps. Make sure that door sweeps are securely in place to block pests from crawling under doors.

Screens: Ensure that all window and door screens are intact and free from holes. If you notice any damage, replace or repair the screens. In Westchester, the spring and summer months bring a variety of flying insects like mosquitoes and flies, and damaged screens can allow them to enter.

Bathrooms are another area where pests like cockroaches, ants, and even silverfish thrive. The moisture and warmth in these spaces provide a perfect environment for pests to feed and breed. Be sure to clean and maintain the following areas:

Under the Sink: Check under your bathroom sink for any water leaks or standing water. Leaky pipes can attract pests looking for moisture. Wipe down the pipes and ensure that any plumbing issues are addressed.

Around the Toilet: Clean around the toilet and any cracks in the tile or flooring where pests may be hiding. Cockroaches, ants, and other insects are drawn to moisture and the scent of waste. Make sure the floor and grout are thoroughly cleaned, and look for any signs of pest activity.

Shower/Tub: Inspect grout lines, especially in corners where water tends to accumulate. Use a disinfectant and scrub brush to clean any mildew or mold, as these can attract pests like silverfish. Check shower curtains or liners for any signs of mold, as the damp environment may invite pests.

If you don’t manage waste properly, it can quickly become a magnet for pests like rats, ants, and flies. Here's how to keep your trash areas clean and less inviting:

Indoor Garbage Bins: Clean your indoor trash bins regularly with soap and water. Pay special attention to the lids and the inside of the bin, as residue can attract pests. Consider using trash bags that are tightly sealed and take out the garbage daily to prevent smells that can draw pests in.

Outdoor Garbage Cans: Clean and sanitize your outdoor trash cans, including the lids and edges. Make sure your cans are sealed properly, and store them away from the exterior of your home to avoid drawing pests closer to the building. If possible, place your cans on a concrete or gravel surface, as this helps prevent rodents from burrowing underneath.

Garages can often become a haven for pests like rodents, spiders, and even ants. The clutter and open access to the outdoors make them particularly vulnerable. Here’s what to focus on:

Floors and Shelving: Sweep and vacuum the floors to remove crumbs, dust, and debris. Pests like ants, spiders, and rodents can hide in boxes and on shelves. Clear away clutter, and store items in sealed plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes, which can attract pests.

Doors and Windows: Inspect the garage doors and windows for any cracks or gaps. Seal these entry points and make sure that weather stripping is in place. If you have a side door, check the threshold for any gaps where pests can sneak inside.

Pet Food: If you store pet food in the garage, make sure it is kept in sealed, airtight containers to prevent pests from being attracted to the scent.