Summer in Canada is a time for backyard BBQs, cottage getaways, and long sunny days. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when unwanted guests make their way into our homes: ants in the kitchen, mosquitoes in the backyard, wasps near the deck, and fruit flies buzzing around the produce. These pests can be more than just a nuisance — they can carry bacteria, cause allergic reactions, and damage property. The good news is there are simple, effective, and environmentally friendly steps you can take to rid your home of summer pests and prevent them from coming back.
1. Seal the Entry Points
The first line of defence is keeping pests out in the first place. Insects and rodents can sneak in through the smallest cracks and crevices.
- Inspect windows and doors for gaps and torn screens. Replace damaged weather stripping and use caulking to seal any openings.
- Check for gaps around utility lines such as pipes, dryer vents, and cable wires. Foam sealant or copper mesh can help plug these spaces.
- Ensure your attic and basement are secure. These areas are common access points for insects and mice looking for cooler or darker places.
2. Keep a Clean Home
Cleanliness plays a huge role in pest prevention. Crumbs, spills, and exposed garbage are open invitations to bugs and rodents.
- Wipe counters and tables daily, especially in the kitchen. Ants, in particular, are drawn to sugary and greasy residue.
- Vacuum frequently to eliminate crumbs and pet food particles that may accumulate in carpets and corners.
- Take out the garbage regularly, and make sure bins are sealed tight. Consider using compost bins with lockable lids to deter flies and raccoons.
3. Eliminate Standing Water
Mosquitoes need just a small amount of water to breed — as little as a bottle cap full.
- Empty any standing water in plant saucers, birdbaths, gutters, and children’s toys.
- Clean out eavestroughs to prevent water accumulation and potential mosquito breeding grounds.
- Repair any leaky outdoor faucets or hoses that may cause puddles to form.
4. Use Natural Repellents
You don’t always need harsh chemicals to repel pests. Many natural substances are just as effective and safer for children and pets.
- Citrus peels, vinegar, and peppermint oil are deterrents for ants and spiders. Wipe down baseboards and entry points with these substances.
- Citronella candles and essential oils can help keep mosquitoes at bay during outdoor gatherings.
- Diatomaceous earth, a natural powder made from fossilized algae, can be sprinkled in problem areas to kill insects like ants and cockroaches by dehydrating them.
5. Tidy Your Yard
Your lawn and garden can become a breeding ground for summer pests if not properly maintained.
- Keep grass trimmed short and bushes pruned away from the house. Overgrown vegetation offers shelter and hiding places for insects and rodents.
- Remove piles of wood, compost, or leaves, which can attract termites, ants, and even snakes.
- Store firewood away from the home’s foundation to discourage carpenter ants and other wood-boring insects.
6. Store Food Properly
Pantry pests like moths and weevils thrive in improperly stored dry goods.
- Use airtight containers for cereals, grains, nuts, and pet food.
- Inspect groceries when you bring them home — tiny bugs can hitch a ride in flour or rice bags.
- Rotate pantry items regularly to avoid expired goods, which can attract insects.
7. Control Fruit Flies
These little nuisances multiply quickly and love overripe or fermenting fruit.
- Store ripe fruits in the fridge during the summer months.
- Empty kitchen compost bins daily, especially if you’re tossing banana peels or citrus rinds.
- Set up a simple trap using apple cider vinegar in a jar with a few drops of dish soap. Cover the jar with plastic wrap and poke small holes in the top — the flies will get in but won’t be able to escape.
8. Call in the Professionals
If you’ve tried everything and the pests persist, it may be time to consult a licensed pest control professional. Reputable companies in Canada often offer eco-friendly or low-toxicity treatment options. This is especially important if you’re dealing with wasp nests, cockroach infestations, or signs of rodent damage, such as chewed wires or droppings.
Get Started Controlling Summer Pests Today
No one wants to spend the beautiful Canadian summer fighting off pests inside their home. By staying vigilant, keeping your home clean, and using a combination of preventative and natural remedies, you can enjoy the season without the unwanted buzz, bites, and damage.
Remember, the best approach is proactive — don’t wait until pests are already inside. Take action early in the summer and you’ll be able to relax and enjoy everything this time of year has to offer.