9 Unexpected Things That Attract Pests to Your Home (And How to Fix Them)

4 days ago4 min read

No one likes uninvited guests, especially the kind with six legs, wings, or a knack for chewing through walls. While it’s common knowledge that food scraps and standing water lure pests, there are plenty of less obvious factors that could be turning your home into an all-you-can-eat buffet.

If you’ve been battling infestations despite keeping your space spotless, some surprising culprits might be to blame. Let’s break down nine unexpected things attracting pests—and, more importantly, how to fix them.

1. Clutter and Cardboard Piles

It’s easy to let boxes and clutter stack up in basements, garages, or spare rooms. Unfortunately, rodents, roaches, and silverfish love these cozy hiding spots.

Why it’s a problem:

Cardboard absorbs moisture, creating an ideal breeding ground for insects.
Clutter provides dark, undisturbed areas for pests to nest.

Fix it:

Swap out cardboard boxes for plastic storage bins.
Declutter regularly, especially in storage areas.
Keep items off the floor and away from walls to minimize hiding spots.

2. Overgrown Landscaping

That lush garden or leafy backyard might be the perfect aesthetic—but it could also be housing pests right outside your door.

Why it’s a problem:

Tall grass and overgrown shrubs harbor mosquitoes, ticks, and rodents.
Tree branches touching your home act as a highway for ants, squirrels, and even termites.

Fix it:

Trim shrubs, bushes, and tree limbs at least two feet away from your home.
Keep grass short and remove leaf piles or fallen branches.
Consider pest-repelling plants like lavender, citronella, or marigolds.

3. Outdoor Lighting

Think that bright porch light is just welcoming guests? It’s also attracting insects—lots of them.

Why it’s a problem:

Many pests, especially moths and beetles, are drawn to bright lights at night.
Where there are bugs, spiders and other predators follow.

Fix it:

Swap white bulbs for yellow or LED lights, which are less attractive to bugs.
Move exterior lighting away from entry points to prevent insects from sneaking inside.

4. Dirty Trash Cans (Even Outside Ones!)

You already know that garbage attracts pests, but even a sealed outdoor bin can become a pest magnet if not cleaned regularly.

Why it’s a problem:

Residue and spills inside trash cans attract flies, ants, and rodents.
Overflowing bins provide easy access to scavenging pests.

Fix it:

Rinse bins out with soapy water and vinegar every few weeks.
Secure lids tightly and store bins away from your home’s entry points.
Avoid placing trash cans directly against exterior walls where pests can find cracks to enter.

5. Pet Food (Left Out Too Long)

Love your furry friends? So do pests. Leftover pet food can be just as tempting as human food.

Why it’s a problem:

Ants, roaches, and even rodents will raid pet bowls if given the chance.
Open bags of pet food emit strong scents that attract pests.

Fix it:

Only put out the amount of food your pet will eat in one sitting.
Store dry pet food in sealed, airtight containers.
Clean up spilled food immediately, including under bowls.

6. Clogged Gutters

Gutters are easy to forget about, but when clogged with leaves and debris, they turn into prime real estate for pests.

Why it’s a problem:

Stagnant water breeds mosquitoes.
Damp, rotting leaves attract cockroaches, ants, and even rodents.

Fix it:

Clean gutters at least twice a year (spring and fall).
Install gutter guards to prevent buildup.
Ensure downspouts direct water away from your home to prevent foundation damage and pest-friendly puddles.

7. Cracks and Gaps in Your Home’s Exterior

Even the smallest openings can be an open invitation for pests looking for shelter.

Why it’s a problem:

Rodents can squeeze through holes the size of a dime.
Cracks in siding, windows, and doors give insects easy access.

Fix it:

Inspect your home’s exterior for gaps around doors, windows, and vents.
Seal small cracks with silicone caulk and larger holes with steel wool.
Install weather stripping around doors to prevent gaps.

8. Leaky Pipes and Excess Moisture

Cockroaches, termites, and even rodents thrive in damp environments. If you have hidden leaks, pests might already be moving in.

Why it’s a problem:

Moisture softens wood, making it easier for termites and carpenter ants to tunnel through.
Roaches and silverfish are drawn to dark, damp places like under sinks and behind appliances.

Fix it:

Fix leaky pipes ASAP.
Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements.
Keep bathrooms and kitchens well-ventilated to prevent excess moisture buildup.

9. Second-Hand Furniture and Decor

Scored a great deal on a vintage couch? It might come with hidden pests.

Why it’s a problem:

Bed bugs, cockroaches, and even carpet beetles can hitch a ride on used furniture.
Wooden furniture can harbor termites or wood-boring insects.

Fix it:

Inspect second-hand items thoroughly before bringing them inside.
Vacuum and steam-clean upholstered pieces.
Treat wooden furniture with a pest-repelling spray before use.

Final Thoughts: Prevention is Key

It’s not just about getting rid of pests—it’s about keeping them out in the first place. Whether it’s clearing out clutter, fixing moisture issues, or being mindful of your landscaping, small changes can make a huge impact.

If pests are already making themselves at home, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Aardvark Exterminating offers expert solutions tailored to your home’s specific needs. Find "pest control near me" and reclaim your space before unwanted guests settle in for good!