By Daniel Fusch Contributor
As summer gives way to cooler days and longer nights, a subtle but critical seasonal shift begins inside homes. While many homeowners are busy with back-to-school routines, seasonal cleaning, and the return of structured schedules, rodents and other pests are also preparing to move indoors. As outdoor temperatures drop, these creatures instinctively seek warmth, shelter, and reliable food sources, making people’s homes a prime target.
Mice and rats are triggered by the shortening daylight and cooling nights, prompting them to search for secure nesting spots. Attics, basements, garages, and wall voids provide ideal zones. By the time the first frost hits, an unnoticed breach in a home can easily turn into a full-blown infestation. “Preventative action in late summer or early fall isn’t only smarter, it’s less stressful and costly than trying to control a problem after it has taken hold,” says Scott deMoulin, CEO of EarthKind, a company dedicated to safe, non-toxic pest prevention.
This time of the year offers a valuable opportunity for what many refer to as a “home reset.” Much like the fresh start mentality that accompanies the school year, this seasonal rhythm can include natural pest prevention as a key part of household wellness and preparation. However, what does natural prevention actually look like in practice?
EarthKind believes it begins with exclusion. Investing time to seal off entry points around the home is critical. Common access areas include the garage, foundation cracks, utility line entries, attic vents, and dryer exhausts. These often-overlooked gaps act as open doors for rodents, especially when cooler weather sets in. Sealing with durable materials such as steel wool, caulk, mesh screening, or rodent-proofing foam can dramatically reduce the likelihood of unwanted visitors.
Second, food accessibility must be addressed. Rodents don’t need much to survive. They only need a few crumbs and a place to hide. Hence, kitchens and pantries must be kept meticulously clean. Items like grains, cereal, and pet food should be stored in airtight containers made from glass or thick plastic. In addition, dishes shouldn’t be left overnight. “A clean kitchen is a rodent-free kitchen,” deMoulin emphasizes.
Unknown to many, moisture is also an attractant. Pests thrive in damp environments, which offer both hydration and shelter. Leaky pipes under sinks, humid basements, and clogged gutters are all red flags. “Think of leaks as an open invitation to pests,” says deMoulin. “Fixing leaks promptly and using dehumidifiers or ventilation in moisture-prone areas can greatly reduce pest survival rates.”
Finally, outdoor maintenance shouldn’t be neglected. Overgrown shrubbery, piled leaves, and clutter near the home provide perfect hiding spots for pests to stage their invasion. Regularly trimming vegetation, clearing debris, and keeping firewood away from exterior walls creates a hostile perimeter for pests.
What happens when you do the right things, and pests still find their way in? This is where EarthKind’s product line bridges the gap between prevention and peace of mind. The company’s Fresh Cab Rodent Repellent is a botanical-based pouch designed to repel mice using a blend of plant fibers and essential oils like balsam fir. It’s crafted for those who want results without harsh chemicals or messy cleanup and may last much longer.
EarthKind’s pest control products can integrate seamlessly into natural routines. They can be placed under sinks, in attics, garages, storage closets, and in other areas prone to pest activity. “There’s no killing, no cleanup, and no fear of pets or children accidentally encountering harmful substances,” deMoulin states.
This philosophy reflects EarthKind’s goal to make every home pest-free without compromise. Founded by Kari Warberg Block, who witnessed firsthand the dangers of conventional pesticides on her North Dakota farm, EarthKind emerged from a desire to harmonize human safety with ecological responsibility.
Consumers today are increasingly seeking alternatives to toxic pest control, and EarthKind answers that call through its products and a shift in mindset. Scott deMoulin remarks, “Home protection is about cultivating a safe, healthy living space with intention, and it starts with proactive prevention.”
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