The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and celebration—not for worrying about tiny, uninvited house guests. Termites might not be the first thing that comes to mind this season, but they can quickly turn your holiday cheer into stress if left unchecked. These wood-destroying pests often go unnoticed until they’ve already caused significant damage, making prevention and early detection essential.
Want to keep termites from spoiling your holidays? Whether you’re decorating, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing in a cozy home, this guide will help you identify termite risks and implement actionable steps to keep your home termite-free.
Why Are Termites a Concern During the Holidays?
When we think of termites, summer or spring might come to mind—when they swarm and mate. But termites are active year-round, and the holidays unintentionally provide perfect conditions for them to thrive.
Here’s why:
- Wood Decor and Holiday Trees: Natural wood materials like wreaths, garlands, and Christmas trees can attract termites.
- Storage Boxes: Cardboard boxes from your stored decorations or gifts create cozy habitats for termites.
- Warm Home Temperatures: Heating your home might feel cozy for you, but it also makes it ideal for pests like termites to stay active.
- Candles and Scents: Some wood-based scents and products can attract termites without you realizing it!
If termites establish themselves during the holidays, you’ll not only face expensive repairs but the stress of dealing with pest control instead of enjoying the season. The good news? With the right precautions, you can keep termites out and enjoy your festivities worry-free.
1. Inspect Your Decor for Termite Activity
Holiday decorations, especially those stored in garages, basements, or sheds, can become an unintended hiding place for termites. Before bringing your seasonal decor indoors, give it a thorough inspection. Here’s how:
- Look for mud tubes or tiny tunnels—these are telltale signs of subterranean termites.
- Check for hollow-sounding wood—tap on any wooden decorations or ornaments to ensure they haven’t been damaged.
- Examine storage boxes for frass (termite droppings), which looks like tiny wood-colored pellets.
- If you’re using live trees, garlands, or wreaths, inspect for visible damage or pests hiding within the wood or bark.
Quick tip: If you do spot signs of termites, don’t panic. Isolate the affected items and contact a pest control professional immediately.
2. Store Decorations Safely
Most holiday decorations sit untouched for months before the holiday season arrives. Items like ornaments, candle holders, or figurines often reside in attics, garages, or basements, which are prime environments for pests.
Here’s how to keep your decorations pest-free:
- Opt for Plastic Storage Bins: Replace cardboard boxes with airtight plastic containers since termites can chew through cardboard to get to your decorations.
- Declutter the Area: Avoid providing termites with hiding spots by keeping storage spaces clutter-free and organized.
- Keep Decorations Off the Floor: Place decoration storage bins on shelves away from the ground to deter pests.
Pro Tip: If you’re investing in new decor storage, look for pest-resistant and moisture-proof options.
3. Protect Holiday Trees and Natural Items
There’s something magical about a live Christmas tree or garland hanging over the fireplace. But did you know these natural items can carry insects, including termites, into your home? Prevent this issue with a few simple steps:
- Shake It Off: Before bringing a live tree or wreath indoors, give it a good shake to remove insects or debris.
- Leave It Outside for a Day: Setting your tree or garland outdoors for 24 hours can allow unwanted pests to leave before they have a chance to explore your home.
- Inspect Tree Stumps: Look for small holes or grit-like termite droppings around the wood of a live tree.
- Dispose of Natural Decor Properly: Once the holiday season ends, promptly and safely dispose of any natural garlands, trees, or branches before they can attract pests.
4. Address Moisture Issues
Moisture is one of the main factors that attract termites. During the winter months, with holidays in full swing, homeowners often use appliances like humidifiers or tend to overwater holiday plants and trees. This abundance of moisture can create a termite-friendly environment.
To prevent termite problems:
- Check for Leaks around sinks, pipes, and basements. Repair them immediately to avoid excess moisture accumulation.
- Monitor the watering of live trees or plants and use watertight containers to prevent soil moisture from seeping into floors.
- Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements or crawlspaces to decrease the attractiveness of your home to termites.
5. Monitor High-Risk Zones
Certain spots in your home are more prone to termites than others. During the holidays, make a point to inspect these high-risk areas:
- Basements and Crawlspaces where termites are commonly found nesting.
- Firewood Storage Areas if you’re burning wood this winter. Keep firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and off the ground to prevent termites from using it to transfer into your living space.
- Wood Structures such as beams, windowsills, or wooden flooring near heating vents.
Keep an eye out for mud tubes, hollow-sounding wood, or bubbling paint—early warning signs of termite activity.
6. Schedule a Termite Inspection if Needed
The holidays are busy, but scheduling a yearly termite inspection at the end of the calendar year can provide you with peace of mind. Licensed professionals will assess your home for signs of termite damage, and if they identify anything, they can address it early before the issue escalates.
Not sure if an inspection is necessary? If your home is in a region known for termites or if you haven’t had a professional inspection in the past year or two, now is a great time to check this off your to-do list.
Give Yourself the Gift of a Termite-Free Holiday
The holidays should be about celebrating with loved ones, not worrying about tiny pests cramping your winter vibes. By taking a proactive approach—inspecting your home, safeguarding holiday decor, and addressing conditions that attract termites—you can enjoy your celebrations without interruption.
If you’re ready to ensure a termite-free holiday once and for all, reach out to your local pest control service for a professional inspection. Partnering with experts is the ultimate way to protect your home—and your peace of mind—this season and beyond.
Happy holidays—and happy termite-proofing!