Last May, I talked about how my house has a ghost. (Yes, really.)
If you’re curious, you can read about it here.
But what if you think something, well…not-quite-worldy is dwelling in your dwelling?
We scoured information from dozens of sources to come up with the top tip-offs that the paranormal might have invaded your own household. Here are the top 5 signs there may be a ghost in your home, plus bonus tips to look for. Enjoy…and stay spooky!
DISCLAIMER
Okay, you know we have to say it. Any of the signs below could be indications of a house — or even health — problem. Be sure to check with your doctor if you’re smelling or feeling anything unusual, and make sure your house is in working order, with no leaks or dangerous structural issues.
With that said…ready? Let’s go haunt-hunting!
Phantom Scents
Individuals who say they’re haunted by a paranormal presence may report what’s known as a “phantom scent.” This could be tobacco smoke, perfume, or even the deceased’s favorite food.
Usually, phantom scents are pleasant, or at least non-offensive. If you’re routinely smelling a foul odor such as rotting fruit, burned toast or garbage and can’t find the source, see your physician, experts warn.
Upset Pets
Animals are often said to be able to sense the paranormal. (It’s already been shown that they may be able to detect more earthly activity, like earthquakes, well before humans do.)
So if your Fido or Isis stares at one spot routinely when nothing is there, or scratches, barks or shies away from a certain room, you may just have an uninvited — and unliving — “guest.”
Dying Cell Phone
Ghost hunters agree: when the paranormal is present, electronics lose their charge. Your phone and other devices may lose energy quickly, even if the battery is new. The idea is that spirits “use” the charge so they can stay present.
This is said to be an especially telling sign if all electronics “die” at once.
Moving Objects
In the movies, ghosts make objects fly off shelves. But those who say they’ve experienced real hauntings claim it happens in real life, too.
This can be subtle, like pages fluttering on a table, or more dramatic, like a door opening on its own or dishes falling out of cabinets.
Chill in the Air
Paranormal investigators claim that when a spirit is in a specific area, the temperature goes down. That confirms centuries-old lore that “things go cold” when a ghost enters a room.
You may feel a chill on the back of your neck, or chills along your arms that make the hairs there rise.
Bonus: More Signs of Paranormal Activity in Your Home
While the above are the most common signs of ghostly action in reportedly haunted households we came across, there are others. Here’s what to watch out for:
- A feeling of being “touched” or even pushed when no one is there
- Nightmares, especially of being held down or threatened
- Sounds of laughter or crying when no one is there
- Catching sudden movement out of the corner of your eye
- Seeing shadows that move quickly, then disappear
- Feelings of being “watched”
- Feeling unwelcome in your own home
- Children talking to imaginary friends who seem threatening
- Feeling drained of energy inside the home, but energetic outside the home
- Lights flickering on and off
- Objects that go missing, then suddenly reappear in an obvious place, like on a table
- Seeing the same number or series of numbers over and over (which some spiritualists say is a way spirits may attempt to contact the living)
- Electronics, such as the TV, food processor or toaster, suddenly turning on