Now that the holidays are wrapping up, it’s time to take down the decorations and store them until next year. In order to make sure your next holiday season is just as merry and bright as this one was, it’s important to make sure you store your decorations safely.
The biggest issue with storing your holiday decor is the danger of mice, rats, moths, and other pests getting into them. Since they’re only brought out once a year, many people store these decorations in out-of-the-way places like attics, basements, and garages – which is just where pests like to hide. Luckily, the Forest Pest Control team is here with four pest control tips for home storage.
1. Use Tightly-Locking Containers
Rodents can squeeze through any gap big enough to fit their heads through – and if a hole isn’t big enough, they’ll just chew through the container to get in. Cardboard boxes and plastic bags are no match for rodent teeth – or even moth mandibles. The best way to prevent these pests from getting into your decorations is to use plastic containers with locking handles. Make sure not to pack them beyond capacity – the lid needs to fit flush in order to provide protection.
Moth larvae also feed on cloth, so make sure cloth decorations are stored properly too! This means airtight containers or plastic bags – which should in turn be kept in a locked container.
2. Keep Storage Area Clean and Dry
Moisture is a big attractor for pests. They’re small, so even a few drops of water could keep them alive and coming back for more. Likewise, they don’t need very much food – so if there’s any food stored nearby, make sure to move it or keep it in sealed containers. If you used food in your decor, make sure to dispose of these items.
Whether you’re storing your decorations in your attic, your garage, or an outbuilding like a shed, make sure the space is dry and clean.
3. Use Repellants or Traps
Including passive repellants that pests hate in your storage containers could deter them from getting into your decorations. Don’t use edible substances, though – that might end up attracting even more pests!
Traps can also be useful when used as directed, but they will need to be frequently checked and maintained in order to continue being effective throughout the year.
4. Inspect Stored Decor Carefully
Even if you’re careful, a few pests could slip past your defenses. Next holiday season, remember to look over your stored items and dispose of any that look damaged. Look for gnaw marks, droppings, and shredded paper. Rodents use paper, cardboard, plastic, and many other materials for their nesting material – and an undisturbed box in a low-traffic area could be the perfect place to build a home. If you notice any signs of rodent activity in your storage box, dispose of the contents carefully.
Also, if you notice any gnawed string lights, do not use them; exposed wires are a major fire hazard, especially when wrapped around a Christmas tree. Discard them and buy new ones!
Count on Forest Pest Control for Year-Round Pest Control in Central Florida
Storing items to prevent pests is an important part of keeping the holidays happy. But no matter what time of year it is, pest control is a concern for home and business owners everywhere – and no matter what time of year it is, the Forest Pest Control team is here to help! With over 33 years of experience to back us up, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best pest control services in the area.If you’d like to get started with a free quote, just give us a call!
4 Ways to Keep Pests Out of Your Holiday Decor in Central Florida
Serving Orange, Lake, Seminole, Volusia, & Osceola Counties
