What are Pests Looking for When They Invade Your House?

No one wants to experience a pest problem in their home. But, are they simply a part of life that homeowners have to deal with? Yes and no. Pests are a part of life and will continually try to invade your home. But, you do not have to give up a simply live with their presence. When you consider what pests are looking for when they invade your home you can take steps to stop providing them with the things they need to survive.

Water

Pests need water to survive just like the rest of us do. One of the main factors that can draw them into your house is the availability of water. Pests can find water under cabinets where leaks are present and in sinks with standing water. Even a cup, bowl, or plate in the sink with a little bit of water can give pests plenty to survive on. Take some time to inspect any areas around your house that may provide pests with water. Look under all sinks, around toilets and bathtubs for signs of leaking water. Keep standing water out of your kitchen sink as much as possible to further prevent drawing in pests.   

Food

Food is another essential of life that pests invade your home for. You can see direct evidence of their search for food when you see a line of ants marching straight toward a spill or improperly stored food. Rodents, roaches, and ants all search tirelessly for food inside your home. Ants are so small they can squeeze into tiny openings in bags and storage containers. Roaches and rodents have the ability to chew through some types of packaging. If pests can get easy access to food they will be attracted into your home and then continue with their search incessantly. 

Shelter

Your home is also attractive to pests because of the shelter it can provide. Roaches and rodents typically prefer to stay out of sight under sinks, in cabinets, and inside of walls. Ants are typically a bit more brazen because their main goal inside of your home is to find food. A cluttered or messy house can increase the likelihood of pests like rodents and roaches finding a place to hide and take shelter.

You can minimize the likelihood that pests will invade your house by removing the things that are drawing them inside. Remove any clutter or mess that provides pests with places to hide and move around without being seen. You should also check carefully for leaks and promptly fix any that you discover. Going forward be diligent about taking out the trash, discarding food scraps, and storing food securely. All of these steps will prevent pests from finding what they are looking for when they attempt to invade your house.