The festive season has wrapped up, the resolutions are set, and Northern Virginia is settling into the deep chill of January 2026. While you might be focused on staying warm indoors, so are many unwelcome pests. As temperatures drop and outdoor food sources become scarce, many creatures look for refuge inside our homes.

Don't let these cold-weather critters spoil your fresh start to the new year! Knowing what to expect can help you stay ahead of potential infestations.

The Top Pests Seeking Shelter in Your Northern VA Home This January:

Rodents (Mice & Rats):

• Why them? This is peak rodent season! The cold weather and lack of outdoor food sources make your warm home an irresistible target. They can squeeze through shockingly small openings.
• Where to look: Attics, basements, wall voids, crawl spaces, and even kitchen cabinets are prime locations. Listen for scratching noises, look for droppings, or gnaw marks.
• The danger: Beyond being a nuisance, rodents can carry diseases, contaminate food, and even cause structural damage by gnawing on wires (a fire hazard!).

Cockroaches (Especially German Cockroaches):

• Why them? While often associated with warmer weather, cockroaches thrive indoors year-round, especially when it's cold outside. They love warm, moist environments.
• Where to look: Kitchens (behind appliances, in pantries), bathrooms, and laundry rooms are common hot spots. They are nocturnal, so you might see them scuttling when you flip on a light.
• The danger: Cockroaches can trigger allergies and asthma, and spread bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, contaminating food and surfaces.

Spiders:

• Why them? While many spiders die off in winter, some species (like common house spiders, wolf spiders, and even black widows or brown recluse spiders) will seek shelter from the cold.
• Where to look: Basements, attics, cluttered garages, undisturbed corners, and closets. They often go unnoticed until their webs become prominent.
• The danger: Most spiders in Northern VA are harmless, but some can deliver painful bites. Their presence can also indicate other pest problems, as they're often hunting smaller insects.

Stink Bugs & Boxelder Bugs:

• Why them? These "overwintering pests" are looking for a warm place to hibernate. They typically enter homes in the fall but might emerge on warmer January days, or if disturbed.
• Where to look: Around windows, doors, attics, and sometimes sun-facing walls. They won't reproduce indoors but can be a major nuisance.
• The danger: They are generally harmless to humans but can emit a foul odor if crushed or threatened.

Ants:

• Why them? While some ant species go dormant, others, like pavement ants or odorous house ants, can remain active indoors throughout the winter, especially if they find a consistent food source.
• Where to look: Following trails along baseboards, countertops, and around food preparation areas.
• The danger: Primarily a nuisance, they can contaminate food and be very difficult to eradicate without professional help.

Don't Let Pests Ruin Your New Year's Resolutions!

The best defense against these January intruders is a proactive approach. Sealing entry points, maintaining a clean home, and storing food properly can help. However, for true peace of mind and effective eradication, professional help is key.

Here at Guaranteed Pest Solutions, we're committed to helping Northern Virginia residents start 2026 pest-free.

This January, we're offering a FREE, no-obligation pest inspection!

Let our experienced technicians identify any existing pest issues, potential entry points, and develop a customized plan to protect your home.