What's the best way to keep mice out of your house?
Mice and rats can be a real nuisance in your home. They can cause damage to your property, and can also pose a health risk if they spread disease. If you are having problems with mice or rats, there are some things you can do to get rid of them. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best methods for getting rid of these pests. We will also offer advice on how to prevent them from coming back. So if you’re dealing with a rat or mouse problem, keep reading.
Identify the signs of mice or rats in your house
Mice and rats are two of the most common pests in homes and businesses. They can cause property damage, contaminate food, and spread disease. If you suspect you have a mice or rat infestation, there are several signs you can look for.
- One is the presence of droppings. Mice and rats leave behind small, dark pellets that are usually found near food sources or in nesting areas.
- Another sign to look for is gnaw marks. Mice and rats have front incisors that grow continuously, so they gnaw on hard surfaces to keep them filed down. This can damage woodwork, electrical wiring, and insulation.
- You may also hear scratching, chewing, or scurrying, as mice and rats are active at night.
- Mice and rats will also urinate frequently, so you may notice a strong ammonia scent where they travel.
Read this for more signs of mice or rat infestation
If you notice any of these signs in your Tempe home or business, it’s essential to take action immediately to prevent an infestation from taking hold. Contact a pest control professional to discuss your options for getting rid of mice or rats in your home.
How to Get Rid of Mice Naturally and Humanely
1. Remove any sources of food.
Mice are attracted to food, so the first step in getting rid of them is to remove anything that might be attracting them. This means doing things like cleaning up any spills or crumbs immediately, putting away all food at night, keeping all food in airtight containers.
2. Remove all of the nesting materials.
To prevent mice from discovering soft nesting materials, store all fabrics, rugs, and blankets in heavy-duty plastic storage containers. Keep in mind that mice will gnaw on cardboard, paper, or lightweight plastic to create nests; so be sure to dispose of your household’s recycling as soon as possible.
3. Identify where the mice are coming into your home and seal up any cracks or openings.
Mice seek warmth as the temperature falls, attempting to get inside. Seal tiny holes in your foundation, siding, and doors with caulk or weather-stripping to prevent them from getting in. Steel wool should be poked into vent outlets to keep mice out without restricting airflow.
4. Try using a natural deterrent like pepper or garlic oil
There are a variety of strong-smelling natural substances that mice hate, including essential oils, peppermint, garlic, and cloves. You can make your own repellent by boiling these ingredients in water and then spreading it around the areas where you’ve seen mice activity. You can also use apple cider and water. Mix and spray it around the outside of your property as well as in any indoor access points with a spray bottle. Reapply any natural deterrent that you use at least once a month.
5. Get a cat
Cats are one of the best ways to get rid of mice. If you can get a cat to help keep your mouse population under control, do it. If you live in an area that does not allow cats, find a friend who has one and leave tubs of used cat litter at the front doors of your home to deter mice. Mice avoid areas that smell like predators.
6. Place traps in the areas where you've seen evidence of mice
Without using poisons, traps for mice may be used to remove them without harming pets. Mice are caught in a large container that allows them to enter but not leave. When you’ve snagged a mouse, release it at least a mile from your home. Otherwise, it might return.
7. Use ultrasonic sound
Ultrasonic devices may help control mouse populations. Furthermore, these deterrent gadgets are kid-friendly, pet-friendly, and animal-friendly. They’re available at your local hardware store and can be used in any location where you’ve seen mouse activity in your house.
Get Professional Pest Control For Your Tempe Home
Mice damage your property and spread many illnesses. It’s difficult to completely eliminate them once they’ve established a nest. At Briphen Pool Cleaning & Pest Control, we provide 100% effective rodent control options at a reasonable cost. We can deliver excellent and dependable rodent control, as well as remove any current rodent issues. We offer a range of different pest control services to fit your specific needs. We also offer eco-friendly pest control options for those who are looking for a more natural solution. Contact us today to learn more about our Tempe pest control services and how we can help you get rid of mice for good.
