Holiday decorations are an easy target for pests, as they are often stored in attics, closets, crawlspaces, storage sheds, and garages for the other 11 months of the year. Pests prefer those out-of-the-way locations where they most likely will not be disturbed.

Fabric decorations, artificial trees, wreaths, and outdoor decorations make ideal pest harborage locations, as they provide shelter and are easily accessible to pests unless they are stored in tightly sealed boxes.

Clark, your friendly pest control, rodent, mosquito, and termite expert, would like to remind you to be vigilant about pests and decorations during the holidays.

Pests that are home for the holidays

During the holidays, some pests might be more attracted to the festivities than usual. Here are a few of the more commonly encountered pests:

Rodents: As the temperatures drop, rodents seek warmth and food. Crumbs from holiday feasts can be enticing, and they might also enjoy cozying up in stored decorations.

Spiders: These eight-legged creatures often find refuge in undisturbed corners or within stored decorations. They sometimes can be found when you bring out holiday items from storage.

Cockroaches: If there are any spills or crumbs in the kitchen during holiday cooking, cockroaches might make an appearance, as they are attracted to food residue.

Ants: Like cockroaches, ants are drawn to food. Sweet treats and crumbs can be an invitation for ants to join the holiday festivities.

Stinging insects: If your decorations contain naturally occurring materials, such as pinecones or dried flowers, be cautious, as these can sometimes harbor wasp nests.

Stored product pests Pantry pests, such as flour beetles or Indeanmeal moths, might be drawn to stored holiday baking ingredients. Check your pantry and storage areas for signs of infestation.

Tips for keeping holiday decorations pest free   

Inspect decorations: Before bringing decorations out of storage, give them a good inspection. Look for any signs of pest activity such as chew marks or droppings. If you spot something that looks suspicious, take the box outside for further inspection before unpacking the decorations inside your home. The same goes for the packages and deliveries that bring gifts and groceries to your home.

Use sealed storage bins: Store decorations in sealed plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes. Cardboard can be a cozy home for pests, while plastic bins create a less inviting environment and will keep gnawing pests, like mice, from accessing the contents.

Avoid food decorations: If you are using edible decorations, make sure they are sealed and stored properly. Unsealed food can attract pests.

Regular cleaning: Keep the storage area clean and free of crumbs or spills. Regular cleaning reduces the likelihood of attracting unwanted guests.

Outdoor decorations: If you are using outdoor decorations, check them for any signs of pest infestation. Spiders love hiding in corners, and wasps might find cozy spots to build nests.

Inspect greenery: If using real greenery like wreaths or garlands, inspect them for any hitchhiking pests. A quick shake can help dislodge any unwanted pest visitors.

Remove directions promptly: Once the holiday season is over, do not procrastinate on taking down decorations. The longer they stay up, the more likely pests are to move in.

Call a professional: If you suspect a pest problem, consider a professional inspection. They can identify and address any issues before they become major infestations.

If pests are a nuisance in and around your home during the holiday season, call California and northwestern Nevada’s trusted pest control and removal expert, Clark, at (800) WE-NEED-YOU (936-3339) or email us at clarkcares@clarkpest.com.

Until next time, the pest management professionals at Clark Pest Control thank you for helping to keep unwanted pests out of your home.

Happy holidays from Clark Pest Control!