​The holidays are just about over, and it won’t be long before the decorations are packed away and life starts to slow down, at least on the surface. For many homeowners, January is when pest problems that have been quietly developing for weeks finally become noticeable.

Between extra food, increased foot traffic, and seasonal weather changes, the holiday season creates ideal conditions for pests to move in and settle down. Once routines return to normal, homeowners often begin spotting the signs.

clean home

​What This Blog Covers

  • Why pest activity often becomes noticeable after the holidays
  • The most common pest problems homeowners see in January
  • How holiday habits can unintentionally attract pests
  • Where pests tend to hide once decorations are stored
  • Why winter is a smart time for pest inspections and prevention

Why Pest Problems Often Show Up After the Holidays

During the holidays, homes are busier than usual. Doors open more frequently, food is left out for longer periods, and clutter temporarily increases with the addition of decorations, boxes, and storage bins. At the same time, cooler winter weather encourages many pests to seek warmth and shelter indoors.

By January, pests that entered weeks earlier have had time to explore, nest, or increase in number, making their presence harder to ignore.

Rodent Activity Becomes More Obvious

One of the most common pest complaints in January is related to mice and rats.

Homeowners often notice:

  • Scratching or scurrying sounds in walls, ceilings, or attics
  • Droppings in pantries, garages, or storage areas
  • Chewed food packaging or cardboard boxes
  • Signs of nesting in insulation or stored items

Warm homes with plenty of food and protection attract rodents. Holiday storage areas, like garages and attics, often become ideal hiding spots once decorations are put away.

Cockroaches Around Kitchens and Bathrooms

Although more common in the summer, cockroaches don’t disappear in winter.

Signs of cockroach activity include:

  • Roaches appearing at night when lights are turned on
  • Activity near sinks, dishwashers, and trash areas
  • A musty or oily odor in cabinets or drawers

Holiday cooking and entertaining can leave behind crumbs, grease, and moisture that cockroaches rely on for sustenance. Once typical everyday routines resume, their activity becomes easier to spot.

Ants Looking for Food and Water Indoors

While outdoor ant activity may slow in winter, ants can remain active inside homes.

In January, homeowners may notice:

  • Ants around pet food or kitchen counters
  • Trails near sinks, windows, or baseboards
  • Activity in rarely used rooms or storage spaces

Indoor warmth and reliable food sources make homes appealing, especially after the influx of holiday treats and leftovers.

Spiders Appearing in Quiet Corners

Spiders may become more noticeable in January; not because they’re new, but because they’ve been hiding unnoticed.

You may find them:

  • In garages and storage areas
  • Around windows, corners, and ceiling edges
  • Near areas where other insects are present

Spider sightings can also indicate other pest activity, since spiders follow their food source indoors.

Stored Items Attracting Hidden Pests

Holiday decorations, cardboard boxes, and storage totes can unintentionally provide shelter for pests.

After the holidays, homeowners sometimes discover:

  • Rodents nesting inside storage bins
  • Insects hiding in cardboard boxes
  • Damage to decorations, fabric, or paper goods

This is especially common when items are stored in garages, attics, or basements without inspection.

Why January Is a Smart Time to Address Pest Issues

Ignoring early signs of pest activity allows small problems to grow. January is actually an ideal time to take action—before pests become established and before spring activity ramps up.

Winter pest inspections can help:

  • Identify hidden infestations
  • Locate entry points that pests are using
  • Prevent issues from carrying into warmer months
  • Protect your home before pest populations increase

How Northwest Exterminating Helps Homeowners Start the Year Pest-Free

At Northwest Exterminating, we know pest problems don’t follow a holiday schedule. Our team focuses on identifying the root cause of pest activity, not just treating what you see, so your home stays protected long after the decorations come down.

Addressing pest concerns early and signing up for year-round home pest control services prevents larger, more costly issues later on.

Start the New Year With Peace of Mind

If you’ve noticed pest activity since the holidays, or simply want to stay pest-free in 2026, now is the perfect time for a professional pest inspection.

Northwest Exterminating is here to help you start the year with a healthier, pest-free home. Contact us for a free consultation today!