Pest prevention top tips

No one wants to find uninvited guests like mice, ants or insects in their home. Pests can quickly become a problem in any home, especially during warmer months when doors and windows are open, and eating outdoors becomes more common. The good news is that there are simple, everyday steps you can take to help keep the pests away.  

Outdoor eating 

Whether you’re having a BBQ in the garden or a picnic in the park, it’s important to clear up thoroughly afterwards as any leftover food, crumbs and packaging can attract pests. 

Mind what’s near open windows 

Open windows are a great way to let fresh air in, but they can also invite pests in. Avoid leaving food, fruit bowls or used plates on windowsills or countertops.  

Waste disposal 

Proper waste disposal is one of the most effective ways to prevent pest problems. If you don’t already, try using sealed bags for household waste, avoid leaving rubbish on the floor, make sure bins are closed properly, and don’t let waste pile up inside your home.  

Don’t forget you can arrange for your local council to collect bulky waste items – take a look at your councils website to find out the costs involved. It’s also important to ensure you use the correct bins for your waste. Despite the packaging saying so, a lot of ‘recyclable’ items are actually unable to be recycled by the council – again, you can find out on your council’s website what they can and can’t recycle.  

Spotting the gaps 

Small cracks, holes or gaps around pipework, brickwork or windows can serve as entry points for pests. If you spot anything like this in your home or shared areas, pleased report it as soon as possible so it can be fixed.  

Working together 

Pest prevention is a shared responsibility. Your actions – like cleaning up after outdoor meals, storing food properly and disposing of waste effectively – can help create a clean, pest-free environment for everyone.