Holiday Decor Without the Pests: A Fresh Guide for California Homeowners

As holiday decorating begins, many families discover an unwelcome surprise hiding inside boxes that haven’t been opened in a year - pests. Because seasonal decor is typically stored in attics, closets, garages, sheds, or crawl spaces, it often sits untouched for months in the exact places pests prefer to nest. Soft materials, artificial greenery, and outdoor accents all create perfect hiding spots if not stored securely.

Clark Pest Control, your neighborly pest, rodent, and termite experts, encourages California homeowners to take a few preventative steps to keep pests from turning holiday cheer into holiday hassle.

Holiday Hitchhikers: Common Pests Found in Seasonal Decor

Several pests are more noticeable or more active during the holidays. Keep an eye out for:

Rodents – Cooler weather sends mice and rats searching for warm, sheltered spots. Stored decor, food crumbs from gatherings, and cluttered storage areas can attract them.

Spiders – Decorations stored in dark, undisturbed corners are ideal retreats for spiders. They often get noticed only when boxes are opened.

Cockroaches – Holiday cooking can leave behind irresistible crumbs and spills. Roaches will gladly take advantage of easy food sources.

Ants – Sweet treats, baking supplies, and sticky surfaces can invite ants indoors as they forage.

Stinging insects – Natural elements like pinecones, branches, or dried arrangements may harbor old wasp activity if not inspected.

Stored product pests – Pantry pests such as moths or flour beetles may appear when holiday baking ingredients have been improperly stored.

Smart Ways to Keep Holiday Decorations Pest-Free

Inspect before unpacking
Give storage bins or boxes a quick once-over before bringing them into your living space. Look for droppings, webbing, gnaw marks, or pests themselves. If something seems off, take the box outside to investigate.

Choose sealed, durable containers - Swap cardboard boxes for tightly sealed plastic bins. Plastic provides a barrier that rodents and insects can’t chew through easily and helps keep moisture out.

Skip the edible decor - If your holiday traditions include food-based decorations, make sure they’re sealed and stored properly or switch to non-edible versions that won’t attract pests.

Keep storage areas clean - A quick sweep or wipe-down of your garage, attic, or closet can make a big difference in reducing pest pressure.

Check outdoor decor - Before hanging outdoor lights or displays, look for spiders, nests, or other signs of activity especially around wreaths, storage bags, and extension cord reels.

Inspect live greenery - Fresh wreaths, garlands, and trees can harbor insects. A firm shake outdoors helps dislodge any hidden hitchhikers.

Take decorations down promptly - Decor left up for weeks after the holidays can become a new harborage site. Pack away decor soon after the season ends.

Call in an expert if needed - If you suspect a pest issue, a professional inspection can help identify the problem early and prevent costly infestations.

Holiday Pest Control Help from Clark

If pests are making your holiday season less merry, Clark Pest Control is here to help. Contact California’s trusted pest, rodent, and termite experts at 800/WE-NEED-YOU or email clarkcares@clarkpest.com for quick, reliable assistance.

From our Clark family to yours - wishing you a safe, joyful, and pest-free holiday season!