Unless you are caring for one as a pet, it's likely that you don't want a snake taking up residence in your house. While they may spend the warmer months outside, now that the temps have dropped these slippery creatures are looking for warm, dry places to settle in for winter. And according to Jennifer Mecham, a snake expert and writer with Reptiles Blog, your basement could be just the spot. You may think of it as a place to store your seasonal items or do laundry, but it is the closest thing to a wild place in your home.
"It's dark, damp, and full of nooks and crannies for creatures to hide in," says Mecham. Luckily, it's quite easy to keep unwanted pests out. Keep reading to discover the best ways to snake-proof your basement.
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1 | Prey-proof first.
Koroleva Yana/ShutterstockSnakes are more likely to show up if they have something to eat. If pests like rodents, smaller reptiles, or insects are finding their way into your space, a snake won't be far behind.
"Seal or refrigerate any food that would attract rodents and if you're storing food in canisters, make sure they're glass," Sholom Rosenbloom, the owner of Rosenbloom Pest Control, advises. Keep cracks closed to critters and take measures to ensure there are no insect invasions.
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2 | Seal up any and all cracks and holes.
sima/ShutterstockSnakes can push themselves through various spaces if they're determined to make an entrance. Spots in the foundation that are not fully sealed can become easy access for snakes, so take the time to look for gaps or openings and immediately cover them up. "You can use various materials, including caulk, foam, or chicken wire," Mecham tells Best Life. Test the seal when it's done and triple check that no snakes will be able to make the journey through.
Rosenbloom says to also "plug up any holes around windows, doors, water pipes... and you should be good." He explains that snakes are even more prominent if something is flooding, so keeping water at bay is a smart snake-proof move.
3 | Remove any excess clutter.
Eleanor McDonie/ShutterstockIt's a known fact that snakes love to hide and they won't miss out on an opportunity if there's piles of stuff in your basement. Mecham says old boxes, newspaper, or clothes that no longer get worn are key places snakes could sneakily get comfortable.
It's a wise idea to de-clutter not only to keep snakes away, but to be able to locate things you are looking for and have the space available if you need to store new things, of course.
4 | Keep the basement clean.
studiovin/ShutterstockIn addition to getting rid of the junk, it's essential to keep the basement nice and tidy. "Sweeping and vacuuming regularly as well as immediately taking care of any spills or messes is a must-do," says Mecham. When the basement is clean and free of stuff, it's less likely snakes will show up.
On the off chance that they do make an appearance, you'll be able to spot them right away and take measures to get them out quickly. Getting a snake out of your basement doesn't have to be difficult. If the snake isn't venomous, Rosenbloom suggests wearing gloves and using a bucket and a lid to remove the snake and return it back outside. Mecham adds that wearing long shirts and pants can help keep you protected, and if you're not sure about the snake, you should ultimately call a professional.
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5 | Prep with repellent.
ThamKC/ShutterstockWhether it's homemade or store bought, there's always something that can help keep these slippery serpents out of your basement—you may even have some in your pantry right now.
"Clove, cinnamon oil, and vinegar are all natural ingredients you can use to avoid snake encounters," Rosenbloom says.
He suggests mixing the clove and cinnamon oil or the vinegar with water in a spray bottle, and spritzing the perimeter of your house and basement. These concoctions can also work to deter a snake that has already entered your home. The Bonide Stopper 8751 Snake Repellent is a store-bought alternative if you don't feel like using the DIY version.
