Expert tips for keeping bugs out of your home this autumn have been shared by Laura Marsden, a cleaning expert at Marigold. As the season transitions to autumn, many individuals feel the urge to hunker down and get cosy indoors. However, it’s not just humans who seek shelter from the cold and damp – moths, ants, and other bugs may also try to make their way into our homes.
Laura Marsden emphasises the importance of dealing with pests promptly to prevent them from causing damage to food, clothes, and plants. She points out that despite most autumn pests being harmless to humans, they can become a nuisance if left unchecked. To help homeowners tackle common autumn pests, Marsden highlights four key tips.
Moths are a common issue during autumn, particularly as wool coats, jumpers, and scarves are brought out of storage. Moths feed on proteins in natural fibres like wool and are attracted to dark, undisturbed corners. To prevent a possible moth infestation, Marsden suggests emptying wardrobes or drawers, vacuuming, and wiping down surfaces with soapy water. Mixing water with a few drops of cedar essential oil in a spray bottle and spritzing the interior spaces can help deter moths.
For houseplant owners, Marsden advises checking plants for pests when bringing them back indoors after being outside during the summer. The warmth of homes in autumn can encourage pests like aphids and spider mites to become more active. To address this, a solution of eco-friendly washing up liquid and water can be used to gently remove pests from plants without harming them.
Spider mating season extends from September to November, with increased spider activity indoors during this period. Marsden recommends using peppermint oil as a natural spider repellent by diluting it and spraying it around doorways or windowsills. Opening curtains and blinds to let in natural light can also make the home less appealing to spiders, along with reducing clutter and regularly removing cobwebs.
Although ants are commonly associated with summer, an ant infestation can still occur in mild autumn weather. Marsden advises storing food in airtight containers, especially sugary foods that attract ants. Maintaining kitchen cleanliness and using peppermint spray to deter ants can help prevent infestations in the home during autumn.
By following these expert tips, homeowners can proactively keep bugs out of their homes and enjoy a bug-free autumn season.