There is nothing worse than coming home from a relaxing getaway to find cockroaches in your kitchen or ants marching across your bathroom floor.
Vacation should give you peace of mind, not pest problems. In South Louisiana, where critters thrive in warm, humid environments, homes left unattended can quickly become targets for infestations.
This guide walks you through what to check, seal, clean, and secure before you hit the road. Taking a few extra steps now means returning to a pest-free house later.
Key Takeaways
• Seal entry points around windows, doors, and vents to block critters out.
• Store food in airtight containers and clean all countertops and floors before leaving.
• Eliminate standing water and inspect faucets, crawl spaces, and basements for moisture.
• Ask your pest control professional about pre-vacation pest solutions for added protection.
Inspect for Entry Points Before You Leave
Pests don’t need much space to get inside; just a crack under the door or a tear in your window screen can be an open invitation.
Walk around your home and check for gaps near windows, door frames, and vents. Weather stripping and door sweeps on all exterior doors help seal off those easy access points.
Use caulk to seal cracks and crevices around windows and along your foundation. Don’t forget to inspect crawl spaces and basements, where pests often sneak in.
Check window screens too. If you find any holes or rips, patch them up or replace the screen entirely.
Clear Out the Kitchen to Remove Temptation
Your kitchen is a paradise for cockroaches and ants, especially if food’s left out.
Wipe down all countertops. Sweep and mop floors. Empty the trash. Store pantry items, such as flour, rice, and snacks, in sealed containers. Open bags are like neon signs for pests, and roaches are especially drawn to grease or crumbs. Don’t leave dishes in the sink or pet food bowls on the floor either.
Use airtight containers and keep them in upper cabinets if possible. That adds another layer of pest-proofing that’s simple but effective.
Shut Off Moisture Sources and Remove Standing Water
Even a slow-dripping faucet can attract roaches, termites, or silverfish while you’re away. Moisture is one of the biggest pest magnets in homes across South Louisiana.
Inspect all indoor faucets for leaks, and tighten or repair them before you leave. Look under sinks and in crawl spaces for any signs of moisture. It’s also a good idea to run your garbage disposal one last time and wipe it dry.
Outside, check your gutters. Clear away leaves and debris so water doesn’t collect and create breeding grounds for mosquitoes or ants.
Secure Pet Food and Trash
Pet food and unsecured trash are two of the top causes of pest infestations. Before you leave, seal up any open bags of kibble in airtight containers and store them in a high cabinet or pantry.
Take out all indoor garbage, and if you’ll be gone more than a couple of days, ask a neighbor to take your outdoor trash bins to the curb. Don’t give pests a buffet while you’re away.
Keep Your Yard Tidy and Pest-Free
An overgrown yard can draw in unwanted critters, including rodents and roaches. Trim bushes away from the house and mow the lawn before your trip.
If you have any outdoor storage or sheds, ensure they’re clean and securely locked. Stack firewood off the ground and away from your home, as it can attract termites and rodents.
Using a natural repellent, such as peppermint oil, around your foundation or at known entry points can also help deter common pests while you’re away.
Don’t Forget to Check for Early Signs of Pest Activity
Before leaving, take a look at common hiding spots for pests, such as under sinks, behind appliances, and in attic or basement corners. Watch for droppings, dead bugs, or musty odors, which may indicate an infestation.
If you spot early signs of pest activity, it’s wise to address the issue before it escalates. A minor pest issue can quickly escalate if left unattended for a week or more.
Schedule Preventative Pest Control Services
If you’ll be out of town for more than a few days, consider a pre-vacation treatment. It’s one of the most effective pest solutions to keep pests at bay while you’re gone.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we offer same-day service across Southeastern Louisiana, from Thibodaux to Baton Rouge. Our Healthy Home Package includes both indoor and outdoor pest prevention, covering common pests such as roaches, ants, and spiders. We’ll inspect for entry points, treat exterior and interior hotspots, and help you avoid returning to a home full of pest issues.
Our professional pest management team can customize treatments to match your home and schedule. Whether you live in your home year-round or it’s a seasonal vacation home, we’ve got your back.
What If Your Vacation Home Is the Problem?
If your vacation home sits empty most of the year, pests often find their way inside. We recommend seasonal pest control services for these properties. With professional pest management and a good seal around your home’s exterior, you can stop pest infestations before they start.
Our team regularly services vacation homes throughout South Louisiana, ensuring they remain protected year-round.
If You Return to a Pest Problem
Despite your best efforts, things happen. If you come home and notice roaches, ants, or other pests, don’t wait.
Don’t let pests ruin your return. Contact us for quick, reliable help. We’ll schedule an inspection and send a technician to your home, often on the same day. Whether it’s a minor issue or signs of a larger infestation, we’ll get your home back to being pest-free, fast.
FAQs
What is the best way to keep pests out while I’m on vacation?
Seal entry points, remove food and water sources, and consider a professional pre-vacation pest treatment.
How do I spot early signs of a pest problem before leaving?
Look for droppings, dead bugs, gnaw marks, or musty odors in hidden areas like under sinks, behind appliances, and in attics or basements.
Should I hire pest control before a long trip?
Yes, preventative treatments can stop infestations before they start, giving you peace of mind while you’re away.
