Keep bugs out of your home by giving your Christmas tree extra attention
We love providing Metro Atlanta homeowners with superior pest control service and top-notch information on how to combat common insects and critters in Georgia. But we also know that sometimes you just have a random question you'd love a quick answer for.
If you've got a critter question, reach out to us on Facebook and Instagram with your question and use the hashtag #AskBREDA. Then check back to the blog each month to see if we tackle your question!
This month, we received this question:
"Can bugs really get into your house via your Christmas tree?"
Not to put a damper on your holiday spirit but...yes. If you think about it, you really can't fault the bugs. Your Christmas tree was providing a nice shelter against the elements, and then that shelter was cut down and shipped off. Some of the bigger bugs like spiders and roaches will either fall off in transport or during unloading at the store or tree lot, but there are some pests that may hunker down and celebrate Christmas with you. Other bugs may have gone into diapause or hibernation on the tree in the colder temperatures, and then, when you bring the tree into the warmth of your home, these bugs think it's spring and come back to life.
To avoid having some bah humbugs in your living room, we highly suggest leaving your Christmas tree in your garage for 48-72 hours after you bring it home. After that time, you will either be able to see the bugs on the tree and be able to get rid of them, or, since they're outside your home, there's a very good chance the bugs will just find their way back outside to seek another tree house.
While you're on high pest alert, be sure to check your stored Christmas decorations, too. If you kept items in an attic or basement, there's always a chance that something might have decided to lay claim and create a nest or decide to use your decorations as their personal buffet. The usual suspects include rodents like mice and rats, as well as roaches and spiders.
If you do find pests in your decorations this year, don't worry! Take everything outside and thoroughly clean the decorations. Discard anything that looks like it was used or nibbled on, as you don't want to bring potential diseases or trackable scents into your home.
When it's time for Christmas 2021 to be packed away, switch to using plastic tubs with securely locking lids. Make sure to stack them off the ground and check them throughout the next year for any signs of chewing or cracking. If you have outdoor decorations, give those a thorough cleaning before packing them away, and make sure they're not stored in anything breachable like cardboard or trash bags.
If you find yourself needing pest control and want it handled thoroughly, don't hesitate to give us a call. The BREDA Guarantee promises to fix your pest problem and keep it fixed—no matter the circumstances. Schedule a consultation online or give us a call at 770-466-6700.
