It’s a new year, and that means new resolutions! Protecting your home against pests is a great goal to put on your list. Just a few simple changes and mindful habits can go a long way toward keeping pests out in 2026. Build these habits now so you can set yourself up for a pest-free year ahead. Here are a few ideas:
Declutter to Remove Hiding Spots
Pests love quiet, undisturbed areas of the home with boxes, bags and other stored items. In the new year, take some time to declutter storage rooms and closets, clearing out belongings you no longer need to limit the number of hiding places for pests. When your home is tidy and clear of clutter, pests are less likely to take up shelter. Plus, you can spot early signs of pest activity more easily and take action before it becomes a full-blown infestation.
Store Items Wisely
After you clear out the clutter, think about how you will store the items you intend to keep. Proper storage is an easy habit that can make a big difference in terms of preventing pests. Use plastic bins with tight-fitting lids instead of cardboard boxes for holiday decorations and seasonal items. Cardboard is a major attractant for pests like cockroaches, silverfish and rodents. In the kitchen, keep food in airtight containers in order to limit food sources. Practicing more mindful organization is a simple yet powerful change that you can make to help you avoid infestations.
Keep Eating Areas Clean
Even though they may seem insignificant, crumbs and spills can provide food sources for pests. Keeping your kitchen and dining room clean can make a noticeable impact. Wipe down counters, sweep floors and avoid leaving dishes in the sink to ensure no crumbs or spills are feeding the pests! Don’t forget to clean behind appliances every few months, as lots of food crumbs and other debris fall between the cracks. Empty the garbage regularly, and make sure your trash can stays clean—pests aren’t picky.
Ensure Proper Moisture Control
Pests like cockroaches and springtails love damp environments, and moisture issues are one of the main reasons that pests like these move indoors. Fix leaking pipes, use dehumidifiers and ensure good airflow throughout your home to keep moisture under control, especially in bathrooms, laundry rooms and basements. Reducing moisture in your home also helps prevent mold, which certain mites, beetles and springtails feed on.
Maintain Your Home’s Exterior
Keeping a pest-free home isn’t just about the changes you make inside; it’s also about the changes you make outside. Pests often use overgrown greenery and yard debris as hiding places. Some pests will even use them as bridges to gain access to your home. Trim shrubs away from your home’s exterior, clear debris in your yard and gutters, and store firewood a few feet away from the house, off the ground. Entry points are also something you want to check for and address regularly. Make sure there are no damaged screens, worn weatherstripping, or gaps around doors, windows and pipes that pests can use to find their way inside.
Get Regular Pest Control Inspections
On top of all of the things you can do around the house in the new year to protect your home from pests, you should also have a trusted pest control team by your side to offer professional support. Pro-Staff, a pest control company in Omaha, provides expert residential pest control services that include prevention, removal and exclusion. With 20 years of experience and a dedication to using the most effective pest control methods, we’ve been helping our customers keep their homes pest-free. Learn about our 9-step pest control process or contact us today to put us on your pest control home team in 2026!
