As the temperatures start to drop in New York, people begin to prepare for the colder months by pulling out winter coats, sealing windows, and stocking up on supplies. But while you’re getting ready for winter, pests are also preparing—and your home could be their target. Rodents, cockroaches, and even certain insects see the winter season as an opportunity to find warmth, shelter, and food inside. Understanding which pests are most active and knowing how to prepare your home can make the difference between a cozy winter and one filled with pest problems.
Why Pests Move Inside During Winter
Just like people, pests don’t enjoy the cold. When the weather drops, outdoor food and shelter become harder to find, so many pests start looking indoors. Homes and apartments in New York City provide the perfect refuge: they’re warm, filled with food, and full of small cracks and entry points that pests can use to sneak in. Once they find their way inside, these pests can be difficult to remove without professional help.
Common Winter Pests in New York
Some pests are more likely to appear in your home during winter than others.
- Rodents: Mice and rats are perhaps the most common winter pests in New York. They chew through wires, insulation, and food packaging, creating both health and safety hazards.
- Cockroaches: Roaches don’t hibernate. Instead, they move into warm, damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms, spreading germs as they search for food.
- Spiders: While most spiders aren’t dangerous, many move indoors in search of shelter during the colder months.
- Ants: Though ants slow down in the winter, some species may still find their way into heated buildings, especially if food is left out.
- Silverfish and other insects: These small pests often hide in basements, attics, or storage areas where they can survive unnoticed.
Signs of a Winter Pest Problem
Catching pest problems early can save you from bigger headaches later. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Droppings in cupboards, pantries, or along baseboards
- Chewed packaging or wires
- Unexplained scratching noises in the walls or ceilings
- A musty or foul odor, often linked to roaches or rodents
- Visible insects crawling in kitchens, bathrooms, or storage areas
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to take action right away.
How to Prepare Your Home Before Winter
Getting your home ready for winter doesn’t just mean turning up the heat—it also means making it less inviting to pests. A few simple steps can help you prevent infestations.
Seal Entry Points
Check for cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and utility lines. Even the smallest opening can be enough for mice to squeeze through. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal gaps, and consider installing door sweeps for extra protection.
Store Food Properly
Pests thrive when food is easy to access. Keep pantry items in airtight containers instead of cardboard boxes or paper bags. Clean up crumbs and spills right away, and don’t leave pet food sitting out overnight.
Keep Clutter Under Control
Stacks of newspapers, cardboard boxes, and unused clothing make the perfect hiding spots for pests. Regularly clean and organize storage areas like basements, attics, and closets to reduce potential shelters.
Maintain Good Sanitation
Vacuum regularly, wipe down counters, and take out the trash frequently. The cleaner your home is, the less attractive it will be to pests looking for food and nesting material.
Inspect Seasonal Items
Before bringing out holiday decorations, winter clothing, or storage bins, inspect them carefully. Pests often hide in boxes that have been stored away for months.
The Importance of Professional Help
While prevention steps go a long way, some infestations require professional treatment. Rodents can multiply quickly, and cockroaches are notoriously hard to eliminate without expert tools and knowledge. Professional pest management services can identify problem areas, safely remove pests, and provide guidance to prevent future issues.
In a city as busy and crowded as New York, pests are a year-round concern, but winter brings unique challenges. With people spending more time indoors, the risks of pest-related damage and health issues increase. Taking the right steps before winter arrives can save you from costly repairs and stress later on.
A Safe and Comfortable Winter
New York winters can be harsh, but your home should remain a place of warmth and comfort—not a hiding spot for pests. By sealing entry points, keeping things clean, and being on the lookout for warning signs, you can enjoy the season without uninvited guests. And if pests do make their way in, Positive Pest Management is here to provide fast, reliable solutions to keep your home protected all winter long.
