Top Hidden Things That Attract Pests To Your Home

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why do I have bugs or rodents when my house is clean?”... You’re not alone. At Balson Pest Control, we regularly inspect homes across Simcoe County, Midland and cottage country and we find that the biggest pest problems often start with things homeowners don’t even notice.

Here are six sneaky things that could be attracting pests to your home and tips to keep them away:

1. Excess Moisture Around the House

   Standing water, poor drainage, and leaky outdoor faucets are magnets for pests like ants, earwigs, silverfish, and mice. These pests are drawn to moisture and can easily find a way into your basement or crawlspace.

   
   

   Pest prevention tip: Make sure gutters are clear, extend downspouts away from your foundation and fix dripping taps promptly.

2. Trees and Shrubs Touching the Exterior

   Overgrown branches and vines give pests direct access to your roof, soffits, and attic. This is one of the most common causes of squirrel, raccoon, and bat infestations in Ontario homes and cottages.

   
   

   Protect your home: Keep a clear perimeter of 12–18 inches between vegetation and your siding or roofline.

3. Pet Food and Bird Feeders

   Uncovered pet bowls or birdseed left outdoors overnight can attract rats, raccoons, skunks and insects. Even the smallest crumbs can be a feast to pests.

   
   

   Rodent control tip: Store pet food in sealed containers and clean up after feeding time. Consider bringing bird feeders in at night.

4. Small Gaps and Cracks

   Mice only need a hole the size of a dime to get in. Gaps around utility lines, garage doors, vents, and windows are like an open door to rodents, spiders, and cockroaches.

   
   

   Home sealing tip: Inspect your home seasonally and seal entry points with silicone caulk, steel wool, or copper mesh.

5. Cluttered Garages, Sheds, and Basements

   Dark, undisturbed areas filled with cardboard, wood piles or old furniture are ideal nesting spots for mice, rats and spiders.

   
   

   Pest proofing advice: Organize using plastic storage bins and eliminate unused items to reduce hiding spots.

6. Exterior Lighting

   Bright porch lights attract flying insects, which in turn attract predators like spiders and bats. Lights near entry points increase the chances of pests sneaking indoors.

   
   

   Solution: Switch to yellow bug-resistant bulbs or install motion-activated lights.

Get Professional Pest Control in Midland & Simcoe County

Even if you don’t see pests right away, that doesn’t mean they’re not there. At Balson Pest Control, our licensed technicians offer thorough inspections and customized treatment plans to keep your home or cottage pest-free all year.

Book your inspection or pest control service today.

Serving Midland, Penetanguishene, Tiny, Tay, Wasaga Beach, Orillia, Barrie, and surrounding areas.