Sharing your cabin with an array of crawling, scuttling and buzzing intruders is certainly not tantamount to producing the relaxing, chilled haven it was intended to be.
So having the know-how to help create a pest-free environment would undoubtedly be very welcome!
I have put together a few pointers that will certainly help and are definitely worth considering…
Keep the Interior Clean and Tidy
Insects are not houseproud. They don’t like clean and tidy spaces. (Not unlike my teenage son it has to be said!)
They are attracted to any sources of food, areas that are damp and to clutter and mess which provide great hiding spots that are perfect breeding grounds.
So it’s a no brainer that keeping your cabin well maintained and clean and tidy will lessen the likelihood of an infestation.
Natural repellents/essential oils
Not only safer for the environment, using natural cleaning products including essential oils, in particular peppermint, lemon and lavender, are an excellent (and fragrant!) way of fending off insects.
They can be added to cleaning solutions or why not just use them as natural sprays by adding about 20 drops of essential oil to water in a bottle (it’s a good idea to change the scent often to maintain the benefits.)
Lemon and lime peel are great for rubbing along skirting boards and around windows and doors.
Lemon-scented candles, household sprays and polishes are also great for repelling insects.
Cracks and Gaps
Thoroughly check over the inside of the cabin – floor, walls, and ceiling – for any cracks, gaps, nooks or crannies, as well as areas near any electrical outlets or cables. It’s also worth checking for any gaps around skirting boards.
Fill any obvious entry points with flexible sealant, caulk or putty.
They can also be sprayed with the natural cleaning products mentioned above.
Check Windows and Doors
Inspect windows and doors for any gaps.
- Add weatherstripping – tape or adhesive – around window or door frames to produce a tight seal.
- Consider adding a door sweep (these can be bristles or flaps) to the bottom of the door to reduce any gapping
- Add screens to the windows and doors – ideal for keeping insects out and fresh air in
Exterior maintenance
- Treat the cabin with wood preserver to prevent rot
- Regularly inspect the cabin for signs of wood decay
A lot of insects like rotting wood for both a food source and for nesting.
- Keep foliage, bushes and any overhanging branches away from the outside of the cabin. They can be used by insects as a means to reach the cabin walls and find a way in.
Regular Inspection
Inspect at least annually, ideally before the summer months, and repair or seal any cracks or gaps that have appeared.
