Insect infestations are a major problem for many homeowners. These pests rarely offer a respite. It seems as if they are everywhere, no matter what time of day or night it is. Thankfully, many pests do disappear during winter. These pests hibernate, or at least become less active. When it’s cold, they do everything they can to converse energy. This helps them survive the colder months, where there is very little food available.

Watch out for these lingering insect infestations

But is this true for all pests? Unfortunately, no. Cold weather affects insects in different ways. For example, here are some pests that do not go away in winter. Insects you may have to deal with during winter include things like ants, cockroaches, silverfish in the bath and spiders. You may also have to deal with bed bugs and fleas. Although the majority of insects become dormant during winter, with bed bugs and fleas it’s business as usual for the most part.

Because of our highly heated homes, decreased insect activity applies more to those that are living outside. This is part of the reason why you might still get insect infestations in your home. Our homes provide insects with everything they need to survive when temperatures drop. In this respect, it may as well not even be cold outside.

Steps you can take to prevent insects coming in

One of the questions about insects we get asked by customers is whether insect infestations can happen just as easily in winter as in summer. In fact, these infestations can often happen more easily. The reason is because pests are more likely to enter our homes during winter. Pests have access to abundant warmth, all the food they need, as well as water indoors. They are attracted in by these things.

This is why pest proofing is especially important at this time of year. You do not want insects entering your home as the temperature falls outside. Now is an excellent time to begin those household DIY tasks before the weather gets really freezing. This won’t help with fleas or bed bugs, however keeping your home free of clutter will make it easier to contain an infestation if you are unlucky enough to pick one up.

You’ll also want to trim bushes and shrubs that touch your outside walls. Both common and unusual insects can live on these and use these as a way to access your home. Most importantly, keep your home clean and free of food debris. Remember, pests are primarily attracted to food. If your kitchen is spotless, you are less likely have a problem with winter pests and insect infestations.