You vacuum, wipe down counters, and take out the trash regularly—so why are you still spotting bugs? The truth is, even a tidy home can play host to unwelcome pests if you’re unknowingly providing food, shelter, or water sources they find irresistible. Some of the most common bug magnets are things we all have around the house and don’t think twice about.
Before you call it a lost cause, take a look at these nine surprising things that might be luring insects into your space—and what you can do about them.
Crumbs in Hidden Places
Sure, you clean the visible surfaces, but what about under your toaster, behind the stove, or inside the couch cushions? Tiny food particles easily fall into these hidden nooks and stay there—especially if you have kids or pets. Ants, cockroaches, and even rodents can sniff out those crumbs from across the house.
If you’re already dealing with an infestation, it may be time to call in the pros. A trusted exterminator Asheville, NC homeowners rely on can help eliminate the problem and keep it from coming back.
Damp Towels or Wet Sponges
Bugs love moisture. That soggy sponge sitting in the sink or a damp towel tossed on the floor is practically an open invitation. Moist environments attract everything from silverfish to cockroaches. Swap sponges often and hang towels where they can fully dry between uses.
Houseplants with Overwatered Soil
We love a lush indoor plant moment—but bugs do too, especially when the soil stays too damp. Overwatering can lead to moldy soil that attracts fungus gnats and other pests. Make sure pots have good drainage and allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again.
Pet Food Left Out
Leaving pet food in bowls all day might be convenient, but it can also bring in ants, cockroaches, and even mice. Store food in airtight containers and avoid leaving kibble out overnight. Wipe up spills quickly and consider feeding pets on a washable mat for easier cleanup.
Cluttered Closets and Storage Bins
Pests love dark, quiet places—especially if there’s paper, fabric, or cardboard around to chew on. Overstuffed closets and rarely opened storage bins are prime real estate for bugs like silverfish, moths, and spiders. Go through your storage seasonally and vacuum the corners to cut down on hiding spots.
Trash Cans Without Lids
An open trash can is basically a buffet for flies and cockroaches. Even if it’s just paper or packaging, the smell can still attract bugs. Use cans with tight-fitting lids and make it a habit to take out the garbage regularly, especially in the kitchen and bathroom.
Dirty Drains
Food residue and grease in kitchen or bathroom drains can draw in drain flies and other pests. If you notice a funky smell or little black flies hovering near the sink, it might be time for a deep clean. Pouring baking soda and vinegar down the drain followed by hot water can help, or use a drain-safe enzyme cleaner for stubborn buildup.
Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard absorbs moisture, harbors bacteria, and breaks down over time—making it a cozy shelter and food source for bugs like roaches and silverfish. If you’re storing things in the basement, attic, or garage, opt for plastic bins with secure lids instead.
Window Screens with Small Tears
Tiny rips in your window screens may not seem like a big deal, but to bugs, they’re wide-open doors. Mosquitoes, flies, and even wasps can slip in unnoticed. Inspect screens regularly and patch up any holes or gaps with screen repair tape or kits.
Sometimes it’s the smallest habits that lead to the biggest bug problems. Taking the time to identify and fix these easy-to-miss issues can make a huge difference in keeping your home pest-free. And if you’ve already got some unwanted guests hanging around, don’t wait until it gets worse—reach out to a local pest control expert who can tackle the problem head-on.