BLOG Eliminating Pests from Holiday Decorations: Tips from Garrison Pest Control Jun 10, 2026

As the holiday season approaches, homes often transform with festive decorations that bring cheer and warmth. However, amid the joy and sparkle, these decorations can become a hidden haven for pests. Ensuring your decorations are pest-free is essential to maintaining a happy and healthy home environment throughout the holidays. At Garrison Pest Control, we understand the importance of this and offer expert tips to protect your decorations from unwelcome invaders.

To begin, it’s crucial to understand why pests are attracted to holiday decorations. Many decorations are stored in basements, attics, or garages, places that are prime real estate for insects and rodents seeking shelter. These spaces provide the dark, undisturbed environments pests thrive in, and the cardboard boxes often used for storage offer a food source. When these decorations are brought indoors, so too can be the pests.

The first step in eliminating pests from holiday decorations is proper storage. Utilize plastic bins with tight-fitting lids instead of cardboard boxes. Plastic containers are not only more durable but also less penetrable by pests. Make sure all items are clean and completely dry before packing them away. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can attract bugs.

When it’s time to unpack your holiday decorations, inspect everything thoroughly before bringing it into your living spaces. Look for signs of pest activity such as droppings, gnaw marks, or webs. If you find evidence of pests, it’s best to handle these outside and call a professional like Garrison Pest Control for assistance if necessary.

Another key practice is to regularly clean and remove old or decaying decorations that may have been forgotten. Over time, they can deteriorate and attract pests. Sticking to a decluttering routine not only ensures you only keep the decorations you truly love but also reduces potential nesting grounds for pests.

When decorating with natural elements such as pine cones, wreaths, or dried fruits, it’s important to treat these items to prevent pest infestations. Baking natural materials at a low temperature for about 20 minutes can kill any insects or larvae present. Alternatively, freezing such decorations for a week before use can achieve the same effect.

During the holiday season, monitor your home for any signs of increased pest activity. Holiday baking can attract ants, and shiny decorations might interest rodents. Regularly sweeping, vacuuming, and keeping food sealed tight are easy practices to minimize the allure of your home to pests during this time.

In conclusion, while holiday decorations bring joy and festive spirit into your home, they can also bring pests if not handled properly. By following the tips from Garrison Pest Control, you can enjoy a holiday season free of pests, ensuring that your celebrations remain bright and uninterrupted. For any pest control concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to Garrison Pest Control. Our team of experts is ready to help you maintain a safe and festive home environment all year round.