Are Crickets a Fall Pest Concern?

 

Yes, crickets are definitely a fall pest concern, particularly as the temperatures start to drop. Most people notice more crickets around (and sometimes inside) their homes during late summer and early autumn. This happens because crickets are looking for warmth and shelter as the weather turns colder, and your home provides an ideal safe space for them.

 

Why Crickets Come Indoors in the Fall

 

Crickets are outdoor insects most of the year, living in grass, mulch, woodpiles, and cracks around your yard. However, as outdoor temperatures cool in the fall, they seek warmth and moisture. Houses, basements, garages, and sheds are perfect for them. Crickets get inside through tiny cracks, gaps under doors, poorly sealed windows, or damaged screens. They’re especially attracted to areas with lights, since light attracts insects at night.

 

Problems Crickets Cause Indoors

 

When crickets come inside, they can create several issues:

• Chirping Noise: Male crickets "chirp" by rubbing their wings together. This can become loud and persistent, making it hard to sleep or concentrate, especially if crickets are in your basement or closets.
• Damage to Belongings: Crickets will chew on fabrics like clothing, carpets, and upholstery if they can’t find other food. They may also eat paper, wallpaper glue, or houseplants.
• Contamination: Crickets leave droppings ("frass") behind, which can stain fabrics and surfaces.
• Multiplying Quickly: If crickets find a warm spot and food, they may lay eggs indoors, leading to a larger problem over time.

 

How to Prevent Cricket Infestations in Fall

 

There are practical steps you can take to prevent crickets from moving into your home during the fall:

• Seal Entry Points: Check for and seal cracks and gaps around the foundation, windows, and doors. Use weatherstripping and door sweeps to block their entry.
• Turn Off Outdoor Lights: Crickets are attracted to light. Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights at night or switch to yellow "bug" bulbs that are less attractive to insects.
• Remove Attractants: Keep grass mowed, weeds trimmed, and leaf or woodpiles away from your house’s foundation. Do not stack firewood right next to your house, as it can attract crickets and other pests.
• Keep Your Home Dry: Crickets love moisture. Fix leaky pipes and use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements.
• Regular Cleaning: Vacuum regularly, especially in storage areas, to remove eggs and food scraps.

 

What to Do if Crickets Get Inside

 

If you already have crickets indoors:

• Catching and Removing: You can vacuum them up or catch them in sticky traps, which are available at most hardware stores.
• Cleaning: Dispose of vacuum bags or trap contents outside, far from your home, to prevent any eggs from hatching indoors.
• Consider Professional Help: If you have a persistent cricket problem that you can’t control, a pest control specialist can help identify and seal entry points, and safely remove the infestation.

 

Are Crickets Dangerous?

 

For most people, crickets are more of a nuisance than a danger. They do not bite or spread diseases to humans or pets. However, the damage they cause to fabrics and their noisy chirping can certainly make them unwelcome guests in your home.

 

Summary

 

Crickets become a pest concern every fall because they seek warmth and shelter inside homes as outdoor temperatures drop. They can cause noise, fabric damage, and general annoyance. Preventing cricket problems involves sealing your home, reducing outdoor attractions, controlling moisture, and keeping living spaces clean. If crickets still find their way inside, remove them and take steps to prevent future invasions. With a few proactive measures, you can enjoy a cricket-free fall indoors.