By Brad Janssen

Your go-to seasonal checklist for keeping Iowa pests under control all summer long — from prevention tips to professional solutions.


Key Takeaways

  • Iowa summers bring higher pest activity for ants, mosquitoes, and stinging insects.
  • A seasonal checklist helps you stay ahead of infestations.
  • Combining DIY prevention with professional pest control in Iowa offers the best results.
  • Janssen’s local expertise ensures treatments match Iowa’s climate and pest patterns.

Summer in Iowa is perfect for backyard gatherings and evenings on the patio — but it’s also prime time for pests. From ants invading the kitchen to mosquitoes making outdoor time miserable, seasonal pest control is key to a comfortable home. Use this checklist to stay ahead of summer pests and protect your property all season long.


Inspect & Seal Entry Points

  • Check windows and doors for gaps
  • Seal foundation cracks
  • Close off attic and crawl space vents
    (Pair with an early-season treatment from Janssen Pest Solutions for maximum protection.)

Eliminate Standing Water

  • Clear clogged gutters
  • Empty buckets, flowerpots, or kiddie pools
  • Level low spots in the yard that collect water
    (This is crucial for mosquito control — a key feature of our Green Guard Platinum plan.)

Maintain Your Yard

  • Keep grass cut and weeds trimmed
  • Store firewood at least 20 feet from the house
  • Trim shrubs away from siding

Clean & Store Outdoor Items

  • Wipe down patio furniture and grills
  • Store pet food indoors
  • Seal outdoor trash bins tightly

Monitor High-Risk Areas Inside

  • Kitchens: Keep counters and floors crumb-free
  • Bathrooms: Check for leaks under sinks
  • Basements: Watch for spider activity in corners

Schedule Professional Service

  • Book seasonal treatments to target summer pests like ants, mosquitoes, and wasps
  • Get coverage for over 30 common pests with a Green Guard Pro plan
  • Consider same-day pest control for urgent issues

You May Have Missed

Check out these related blog posts for more pest prevention tips and seasonal insights:


Want a pest-free summer? Contact Janssen Pest Solutions today for an affordable pest control service tailored to Iowa’s summer pest season.


FAQs

Q: When should I start summer pest control?
A: Early spring is ideal, so preventive treatments are in place before pests are most active.

Q: What summer pests are most common in Iowa?
A: Ants, mosquitoes, wasps, hornets, spiders, and boxelder bugs.

Q: Is this checklist enough to keep pests away?
A: It’s a great start, but pairing it with seasonal professional treatments ensures better protection.

Q: Do you offer mosquito-specific treatments?
A: Yes — our Green Guard Platinum plan includes mosquito control.

Q: Is seasonal pest control safe for kids and pets?
A: Absolutely — we use targeted applications designed for safety.

Q: Do you service rural areas outside the Des Moines metro?
A: Yes — we provide pest control in Iowa for both metro and surrounding communities.

Q: Can I get service if I see pests between scheduled visits?
A: Yes — our pest-free guarantee means we’ll come back at no extra cost.