5 Holiday Decorations That Can Attract Insects and Rodents

Cooler weather usually means fewer pests, but holiday decorations are a seasonal exception. Hidden away in storage or freshly brought in from the outdoors, pests in holiday decorations can turn festive cheer into a not-so-merry surprise.

Whether they hitch a ride in your Christmas tree or make a home in your attic’s storage boxes, here’s how to spot and prevent the critters that may be attracted to your decorations.

Potted Plant Pests

A potted plant is a great way to add some greenery to your holiday decor, but you might bring more nature into your home than intended.

Soil-dwelling pests like fungus gnats thrive in the moisture-rich environment of potted plants like poinsettias and paperwhites. Keep an eye out for small, dark, mosquito-like bugs flying around the soil below the leaves. You can also check the soil for tiny white larvae before you bring your plants inside. 

Speaking of poinsettias, there’s one insect in particular that loves them: whiteflies. These small, winged bugs hide on the bottom of leaves. This might make them look like ornaments on a tree, but if you don’t want these bugs decorating your plants, wipe the leaves with a mixture of dish soap and water.

Attic Invaders 

The attic is a place where decorations are out of sight and out of mind until next year, giving critters plenty of time to explore them. Taking these bins and boxes out of their dark, undisturbed places can stir up pests like centipedes, silverfish, moths, or even rodents like mice. 

To avoid moths in stored decorations, use sealed plastic bins instead of cardboard. If your boxes aren’t sealed tight, you may find that your decorations have become food or nesting material. 

Mice and other rodents in particular may find comfort in the warmth of your stored items. Peppermint oil cotton balls are a great short-term deterrent, but for long-term rodent control in holiday decor, inspect your attic for gaps or cracks and seal them tight. And if nothing else, the peppermint should make everything smell festive when it’s time to unbox.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Pest-Free Tree

Clark Griswold learned the hard way — you never know when a squirrel will decide to take a cozy winter nap in your tree. 

While incredibly unlikely, if you’re worried your tree could be topped by more than a star, check for signs of nibbled branches or droppings. Squirrels can also get into your home, and potentially your tree, when looking for warm shelter, so make sure large gaps in your home are sealed. 

A pest you’re more likely to find in your tree is an aphid. These small green or black bugs are attracted to Christmas trees for their sap. While they’re usually dormant in the winter, their eggs could be hidden in the branches. Once inside, the warmer indoor temperatures can cause the eggs to hatch well before spring. Give your tree a good shake before you bring it indoors to knock off any stowaways. 

Organic Ornaments 

Inspecting holiday decor for bugs may not be as fun as making a gingerbread house, but when it comes to edible decor, it’s a good idea to check.

Candy canes and popcorn garlands are classic decorations, but they can also be an attractive treat for pests. If items like these aren’t stored in airtight containers, cockroaches and ants will make quick work of them. It’s probably best to throw these decorations away at the end of the year so their scent doesn’t become a problem.

While not as appetizing for humans, wooden decorations are also at risk of being eaten or damaged by bugs. Termites and wood-boring beetles can sniff out wooden ornaments if stored improperly. Check these ornaments for tiny holes or nearby sawdust piles before you display them. 

Wreath Wreckers 

Natural wreaths and garlands look beautiful hanging on doors and mantels, but pests think so too. These natural materials, like pinecones, berries, or twigs, can attract moths, beetles, and spiders. And if you hang a real wreath outdoors, you might also see ants or rodents investigating.

If you’re in the market for pest-resistant holiday wreaths, an artificial one is your best bet. Since these typically don’t have a scent, pests are less likely to be attracted to them. 

Keep Your Holidays Pest-Free

Are the centipedes in your stocking making you wish you got coal instead? If protecting holiday ornaments from pests is the last thing you had on your wish list, give us a call for a quick and efficient removal.