Spring is here and it means that you have the opportunity to clean up and inspect all areas of your home and garage for signs that pests might have invaded your home during winter.

Kari Warberg block, pest prevention expert and founder EarthKind natural pest-prevention products Stay Away, suggests these steps for pest-proofing your home.

* Outside: The best defense is a good offense when it comes to protecting the outside of your home from pests. Examine the exterior of the house for cracks and other openings that might have formed over the winter.

* Living room: Keep ants from becoming unwanted guests in your living room by vacuuming the entry/living room areas thoroughly to get rid of any crumbs, and clean up any sweet, sugary spills which are the number one culprit for attracting ants in this area. Stay Away Ants pouches, a non-toxic repellant, are also available. Stay Away products are made from essential oils and plant fibres in the USA. They are environmentally friendly and pose no dangers to the home.

* Kitchen: Use natural ingredients to keep your kitchen clean and repel rodents and other pests. Make sure you clean the undersides of stoves, sinks, and refrigerators as these are areas rodents often build their nests. Rodents are attracted to dog food as the number one source of food. According to the National Pest Management Association, you can avoid being one of the 21 million American homes that are infested by rodents every winter by using a Stay Away Rodent Repellent Pouch. You can pest-proof your kitchen by going to the pantry. This is where moths may try to make their home. Keep food safe by keeping it in sealed containers, such as plastic, metal or glass. Also, make sure to inspect the packages for any signs of damage and place a Stay Away Moths pouch near them.

* Bedroom and Closet: Moths also can consider closets a place to call home, but a Stay Away Moths pouch can keep them at bay. The non-toxic Stay Away Spiders repellant can be used in the bedroom. Use the repellant after vacuuming any webs.

* Garage and Basement: These areas can harbor a variety of pests. Avoid storing cardboard boxes. They can attract rodents (they use cardboard for nest building) and cockroaches (they love the glue). To prevent moisture and mold growth, fix any leaky pipes.

Visit earthkind.comFor more tips on safely protecting your home from pests, visit www.pest-proofing.org