New Year, Same Pests: Three 'Resolutions' to Keep Pests Away

The entomologists at the National Pest Management Association share tips for a pest-free home in 2026

FAIRFAX, VA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The board-certified entomologists at the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) are urging homeowners to add an overlooked, but important resolution to their list this year: pest prevention. The current cold conditions mean pests like rodents, cockroaches, and spiders are seeking shelter in the safety of your home. And though winter has only just officially begun, now is the time for homeowners to prepare for the upcoming spring season.

“Pests are capable of far more than just disrupting your peace of mind,” says Dr. Jim Fredericks, Board-Certified Entomologist and Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at NPMA. “They can cause major damage to your property and pose serious health risks. Adding pest prevention to your list of resolutions will help protect your home, safeguard your health, and save you time, money, and frustration later.”

Here are the three essential resolutions recommended by the NPMA to keep pests at bay:

1. Seal Gaps and Cracks: Inspect doors, windows, and pipes for gaps or cracks, and seal them with caulk, weatherstripping, or steel wool to prevent pests from finding their way inside. A mouse can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime, so those tiny cracks are big openings for hungry rodents.
2. Secure Food and Maintain Cleanliness: Store dry food in airtight containers, promptly clean up crumbs and spills, and regularly empty trash into sealed bins. Don't wait until spring cleaning to vacuum behind your appliances for crumbs that attract pests like cockroaches and rodents.
3. Schedule a Professional Pest Inspection: Booking an inspection from a qualified pest control professional now can help pinpoint problems before spring pests emerge, giving homeowners a head start in defending against termites, ants, and wasps.

For more pest prevention tips and resources, visit PestWorld.org.

About the National Pest Management Association

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 4,000 members, was established in 1933 to support the pest management industry's commitment to the protection of public health, food and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. For more information, visit PestWorld.org or follow @PestWorld on Facebook, TikTok and YouTube and @PestWorldOfficial on Instagram.