As the Christmas season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the joy of digging out your festive decorations to transform your home into a winter wonderland. But before you start hanging tinsel or setting up your tree, it’s worth remembering that those boxes and bags stored away in your loft, garage or shed for the past year can sometimes harbour some unwelcome guests: pests.
From insects nesting in cardboard boxes to rodents gnawing through fairy light cables, stored Christmas decorations can become an accidental haven for pests and at Shield Pest Control, we’ve seen it all. Here’s what to do if you discover signs of pests in your festive décor, how to handle the problem safely, and how to prevent it from happening next year.
Common Pests Found in Stored Decorations
Christmas decorations are often stored in dark, undisturbed places, exactly the kind of environment many pests love. Some of the most common culprits include:
- Rodents (mice and rats): Attracted to the warmth and shelter of lofts and garages, they’ll chew through cardboard, wiring, and even plastic to make nests.
- Spiders: These are frequently found hiding among tinsel, artificial trees, and garlands.
- Moths and beetles: They’re drawn to fabrics and natural materials, such as felt ornaments, ribbons, and dried wreaths.
- Woodlice and silverfish: Often found in damp storage areas, they may crawl into decoration boxes if conditions are right.
Knowing what to look for can help you act fast and protect both your home and your festive spirit.
Signs of Pests in Your Decorations
When unpacking your decorations, keep an eye out for:
- Droppings or urine marks: Small, dark droppings could indicate mice or rats.
- Gnaw marks: Chewed wires, boxes, or plastic are a tell-tale sign of rodents.
- Webbing or cocoons: These suggest moths or spiders have moved in.
- Strange smells: Musty or ammonia-like odours can point to rodent activity.
- Dead insects or shed skins: Evidence of beetles, silverfish, or moths.
If you notice any of these, it’s best not to start decorating straight away — take time to inspect, clean, and deal with the problem safely.
Step 1: Isolate the Decorations
If you suspect pests, move the affected boxes or decorations outdoors or into a garage for inspection. This prevents potential spread into your living areas. Avoid shaking or scattering items around indoors, as you could unknowingly release insects or droppings into your home.
Step 2: Inspect and Clean Thoroughly
Carefully go through each item.
- Non-fabric items: Wipe down plastic, glass, and metal decorations with warm soapy water or a mild disinfectant.
- Fabric or soft decorations: Wash or dry clean if possible.
- Artificial trees and wreaths: Shake gently outdoors to remove dust and insects, and wipe the branches down with a damp cloth.
Dispose of any heavily infested items. It’s better to part with a few decorations than risk a pest infestation spreading into your home.
Step 3: Check the Storage Area
Once your decorations are clean, inspect the area where they were stored. Look for droppings, nesting material, or holes in insulation and boxes.
If you notice ongoing pest activity — especially from rodents or insects — it’s best to contact a professional pest control company like Shield Pest Control. We can assess the situation, eliminate the pests safely, and offer advice to prevent recurrence.
Step 4: Store Decorations Properly for Next Year
Prevention is key when it comes to keeping pests out of your decorations. Before putting everything away again in January, follow these simple tips:
- Use sealed plastic containers: Avoid cardboard boxes, which are easily chewed or penetrated by insects.
- Add pest deterrents: Natural repellents like cedar wood blocks, lavender sachets, or bay leaves can help deter insects.
- Keep storage areas clean and dry: Vacuum and declutter your loft or garage regularly to reduce hiding spots.
- Inspect before storing: Ensure decorations are completely dry to prevent mould and attractants for insects.
- Seal entry points: Check for gaps, cracks, or holes in lofts and garages where pests could enter.
When to Call the Professionals
If you notice evidence of an infestation, such as rodent droppings, damaged wires, or live insects, professional intervention is the safest and most effective option. Attempting to handle an infestation yourself can sometimes make the problem worse, especially if the pests have spread beyond your storage boxes.
At Shield Pest Control, our qualified technicians are experts in dealing with rodent and insect infestations in domestic and commercial properties. We provide discreet, effective, and environmentally responsible pest control services across the UK, ensuring your home stays pest-free all year round, including the festive season.
A Safe and Pest-Free Christmas
Discovering pests in your Christmas decorations can be an unpleasant surprise, but with a calm and methodical approach, you can manage the issue safely. Remember: inspect, clean, and store smartly to keep your festive décor in perfect condition for years to come.
