Thanksgiving is all about warm gatherings, delectable feasts, and reconnecting with loved ones, but it can also become a playground for unwelcome guests—pests. From scurrying rodents to hidden ants, Thanksgiving can pose unique challenges to keeping your home pest-free.
At Better Termite and Pest Control, we’ve been empowering families for over five decades to secure their homes against every creeping, crawling threat. This Thanksgiving, we’re here to help you enjoy your holiday without the stress of unwanted pests.
Here’s why pest prevention matters and how you can take proactive steps to protect your gathering.
The Role of Pest Prevention During Thanksgiving
1. Food Galore, Pests Galore
Thanksgiving is a paradise for pests. With food prep happening all day and leftovers sitting out, it’s no surprise that ants, roaches, and rodents often seize the opportunity to invade kitchens.
2. Holiday Crowds, Increased Risk
Hosting friends and family? The increased foot traffic and open doors can unknowingly provide an entryway for pests.
3. Cold Weather Drives Pests Indoors
As temperatures drop in Northern Virginia, pests like mice, spiders, and stink bugs slip indoors seeking warmth—your home becomes the ideal destination.
This is why pest prevention is crucial. The last thing anyone wants is an uninvited pest making an appearance at their holiday feast—or worse, seeing insect droppings near your treasured family recipe.
Thanksgiving Pest Threats to Watch Out For
Knowing your enemy is the first step to winning the battle. Here are some pests to watch out for this Thanksgiving:
- Rodents: Mice and rats can sneak in through the tiniest gaps, contaminating food and spreading bacteria.
- Cockroaches: These scavengers thrive in food-rich environments and can quickly become a problem if left unchecked.
- Ants: Even crumbs left unnoticed can attract entire colonies to your dinner table.
- Flies: Open doors and windows mean flies buzzing around your holiday feast.
- Spiders: While typically harmless, spiders love the same warmth your guests will enjoy.
How to Prevent Pests This Thanksgiving
The good news is that you don’t have to let pests crash your Thanksgiving celebration. Implementing a few preventative tips and booking professional pest control services can save you a lot of trouble.
1. Seal Potential Entry Points
Carefully check doors, windows, and cracks in walls or foundations for gaps where pests might sneak in. Use caulk to seal these gaps and ensure your door and window screens are in excellent condition.
2. Keep Food Properly Stored
Store all prepared dishes and leftovers in airtight containers. Kitchen countertops should be wiped clean throughout the day, and any spills or crumbs should be cleaned immediately.
3. Take Out the Trash
Overflowing trash cans—especially those with food scraps—act like a siren call for pests. Empty trash bins regularly and make use of lidded garbage cans.
4. Inspect Holiday Decorations
Holiday decor stored in attics or basements can sometimes harbor pests like spiders or stowaway rodents. Inspect and clean decorations before bringing them inside.
5. Don’t Forget Outdoor Maintenance
Survey your yard for overgrown bushes, branches touching the house, or piles of leaves that may become a haven for pests. Keep firewood stored away from your property and elevated off the ground.
6. Schedule Professional Pest Control in Advance
Prevention is better than cure! Regular pest control treatments ensure your home is well-protected during the busiest times of the year.
Why Choose Better Termite and Pest Control?
There are countless pest control services available, but Better Termite and Pest Control has been trusted by over one million homes across Northern Virginia since 1968. Here’s how we make a difference:
- Experienced and Local: With over 50 years of experience, we understand the Northern Virginia pest landscape like no one else.
- Customized Solutions: We create tailored treatments for every customer’s specific pest needs.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Our green solutions provide peace of mind for families who care about the environment.
- Free Callbacks: If pests return between scheduled services, we’ll come back free of charge—it’s that simple!
Join the hundreds of families who enjoy peace of mind knowing their homes are protected from unwanted pests, year-round.
Exclusive Holiday Pest Control Offer for New Customers
We’re making it even easier for you to get started with pest prevention ahead of Thanksgiving. Save $50 on your first pest control service or $100 on termite treatments when you mention code BETTER50.
Don’t wait for pests to intrude on your holiday cheer—schedule your service today and give thanks for a pest-free home.