Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, but the last thing you want is pests crashing the celebration.

As the weather cools down, rodents and other critters start looking for warmth, making Thanksgiving pest control a top priority for homeowners.

To keep your holiday pest-free and your family comfortable, a few simple pest-proofing steps can make all the difference.

Why Pests Seek Shelter During Thanksgiving

While it’s true that pests like rodents are attracted to the warmth of your home, there’s more to their motivation during Thanksgiving than just escaping the cold. Holiday gatherings create conditions that attract pests, particularly due to:

  • Abundant Food: Kitchens and pantries become prime targets for pests like mice, ants, and cockroaches, as they seek out easy access to leftover crumbs and spills.

  • Increased Activity: Holiday prep can disrupt outdoor pest habitats. Stacking firewood near the house, leaving doors and windows open, or setting up decorations can unintentionally invite pests inside.

  • Open Entryways: With guests coming and going, doors and windows might be left open, giving pests a chance to sneak in unnoticed. Small cracks or gaps in window frames and doors also make homes vulnerable.

  • Hidden Shelter: Pests look for quiet spaces, and holiday clutter, boxes, or rarely used rooms provide the perfect hiding spots in basements, attics, or storage areas.

Thanksgiving is the perfect opportunity for pests to settle in unnoticed as they capitalize on the busy atmosphere and increased food supply. Understanding this behavior is key to successful Thanksgiving pest prevention.

Common Pests to Watch Out for This Thanksgiving

With the busy atmosphere and ample food supply during Thanksgiving, certain pests are more likely to take advantage of your home.

While we’ve already covered why pests seek shelter indoors during this time, let’s dive deeper into the specific pests that could become your unwelcome guests.

Rodents (Mice, Rats) - Thanksgiving Pest Control

Rodents (Mice, Rats)

Rodents, particularly mice and rats, are notorious for sneaking into homes as the weather cools. They can enter through the smallest openings, like cracks around windows or gaps under doors.

Once inside, they seek out food crumbs and shelter in hidden spaces like attics, basements, and behind appliances. Rodents can carry diseases and cause damage by chewing through wires, insulation, and stored items, making them a significant concern for homeowners.

Ants and Cockroaches

Ants and Cockroaches

Ants and cockroaches are common kitchen invaders, drawn by food spills and garbage that accumulate during holiday meal preparations. Ants can quickly form trails to access your food, while cockroaches thrive in warm, moist environments like kitchens and bathrooms.

Both pests can spread bacteria and contaminate food, which is particularly problematic during a holiday focused on cooking and sharing meals.

Pantry Pests (Moths, Weevils)

Pantry Pests (Moths, Weevils)

Pantry pests like moths and weevils are often unnoticed until they’ve already caused damage. These tiny insects target dry goods such as flour, grains, and cereals, potentially spoiling your holiday meal prep.

They can enter your home through packaged food and quickly multiply in dark, undisturbed areas of your pantry. Evidence of their presence often includes damaged packaging, small webs, and larvae, which can ruin food before you even realize they’re there.

By understanding the specific pests that may invade your home during Thanksgiving, you can take targeted measures to keep them out and ensure a pest-free holiday.

Quick Pest-Proofing Tips Before Thanksgiving

Understanding the types of pests that may try to invade your home this Thanksgiving is only the first step. The key to avoiding an infestation is taking proactive measures before they have a chance to settle in.

With a few strategic holiday pest control steps, you can keep your home protected from these unwanted guests.

Below are some simple yet effective tips to help you safeguard your home ahead of the holiday:

1. Seal Entry Points

Pests can squeeze into your home through even the smallest openings. Before Thanksgiving, it’s essential to thoroughly check your home for any vulnerable spots. To minimize the risk of pests slipping inside, try these tips:

  • Apply caulk or weatherproofing strips around windows and door frames to eliminate small gaps.

  • Examine your home’s exterior for cracks or holes, particularly along the foundation, and seal any you find.

  • Look closely at areas where pipes, vents, or cables pass through walls—seal up any spaces around them.

  • Make sure all doors and windows close tightly and consider adding door sweeps if needed.

By taking these steps, you’ll create a stronger barrier to prevent pests from sneaking into your home this holiday season.

2. Keep Food Sealed and Stored Properly

One of the biggest attractions for pests during Thanksgiving is the abundance of food. To prevent pests from invading your pantry or kitchen:

  • Store all food, including flour, grains, and leftovers, in airtight containers.

  • Keep pantry staples like cereals and grains properly sealed.

  • Avoid leaving food out overnight and promptly clean up after meals.

  • Ensure garbage is covered to avoid attracting pests like rodents or insects.

By using sealed containers and tidying up after meals, you minimize the risk of pests accessing your food supply.

3. Maintain Cleanliness in the Kitchen

Keeping your kitchen tidy is one of the most effective ways to prevent pests from making themselves at home. Here’s how to maintain cleanliness:

  • Clean up any food spills as soon as they happen.

  • Wipe down countertops regularly after cooking.

  • Sweep or vacuum floors to remove crumbs.

  • Empty trash bins frequently and use lids that close tightly.

By implementing these pest-proofing strategies ahead of Thanksgiving, you’ll greatly lower the chances of pests invading your home.

A little preparation now can spare you the stress of dealing with unwelcome critters, allowing you to focus on enjoying a peaceful and pest-free holiday celebration.

How to Protect Your Home Throughout Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving in full swing, pests may still find ways to enter your home despite your initial preventive measures. To ensure you stay protected throughout the holiday, here are some additional holiday pest control steps you can take.

These strategies will help keep pests at bay and maintain a safe, clean environment during your gatherings.

Inspect Storage Areas

While sealing entry points was essential, pests often hide in storage areas that aren’t frequently used. Holiday decorations, old boxes, and clutter in your basement or attic provide excellent hiding spots. To keep pests away:

  • Regularly inspect storage areas like attics, basements, and closets.

  • Look for signs of pests, such as droppings, nests, or damaged items.

  • Use sealed plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes to store items.

  • Remove clutter that might attract pests to dark, undisturbed spaces.

Keep Trash Tightly Closed

Proper trash management is key to avoiding pests. Pests like rats, raccoons, and flies are drawn to food waste. Here’s how to manage your trash effectively:

  • Ensure trash bins are fitted with tight, secure lids.

  • Place outdoor trash cans away from entry points and secure them with lids or locks.

  • Clean trash bins periodically to eliminate lingering odors that could attract pests.

Use Safe Pest Control Solutions

If pests have made their way inside despite your precautions, non-toxic pest control solutions can help without introducing harmful chemicals into your home. Consider these eco-friendly options:

  • Diatomaceous Earth: A natural, mineral-based substance that effectively eliminates pests without posing risks to people or pets. Sprinkle it near baseboards, windows, and doorways to create a protective barrier that pests cannot cross.

  • Essential Oils: Peppermint, citronella, and lavender oils work as natural repellents. Create a diluted spray and use it in problem areas.

  • Non-toxic Bait Traps: Set up traps designed for specific pests that are safe to use around children and pets.

Using these safe solutions ensures your home stays pest-free without the use of harsh chemicals.

By taking these additional steps, you can further reduce the risk of pests, keeping your home safe and clean throughout Thanksgiving.

When to Call a Professional for Thanksgiving Pest Control

DIY methods can work well for small pest issues, but sometimes, bringing in a professional is necessary.

Pests can be stubborn, and despite your best efforts, some infestations may worsen over time. Here are some situations where it’s wise to contact a professional for help:

Persistent Signs of Pests:

  • If you keep finding droppings, property damage, or notice pests regularly, it’s a clear sign that the problem is bigger than it seems. Rodents can chew through wires, posing fire risks, while cockroaches and ants can multiply quickly.

Protecting Your Family’s Health:

  • Rodents and cockroaches can carry harmful germs that can quickly spread in your home. If you’ve seen these pests, it’s time to act. A professional can step in and make sure your home stays safe and healthy for your loved ones.

Escalating Infestations:

  • When insects or rodents reproduce faster than you can control, it’s time for professional help. A licensed technician can target the root of the problem, ensuring that future infestations are prevented.

Failed DIY Solutions:

  • If you’ve tried multiple home remedies and the pests are still an issue, a professional pest control service has the tools and expertise to provide long-lasting solutions. This is particularly important during busy times like Thanksgiving when you want your home pest-free.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to a pest control expert if these signs apply to your situation. Professionals can restore peace and safety to your home, leaving you free to enjoy the holiday.

Conclusion: Have a Worry-Free Thanksgiving Without Pests

Thanksgiving should be spent enjoying time with family and friends, not dealing with unwanted critters. By focusing on Thanksgiving pest prevention and taking precautionary steps, you can keep pest issues to a minimum.

However, if you’re facing stubborn pest problems that don’t go away with simple fixes, it’s a good idea to get professional help. Bringing in experts will allow you to enjoy your holiday gathering in a safe, pest-free space.

To keep your home protected, even beyond Thanksgiving, consider scheduling a professional pest control service. With their help, you can relax, knowing that your home will remain pest-free throughout the holiday season and into the colder months.

About the Author

Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management, established over 12 years ago in Des Moines, IA, specializes in resolving wildlife and pest issues. Emphasizing “Your Property, Our Priority,” we are licensed by the Iowa Department of Fish and Game and the Department of Agriculture. Our team, committed to superior service, offers both one-time and yearly management programs across Des Moines and its environs, ensuring effective solutions and customer satisfaction.