Living in an older home or in a rural area often means dealing with the occasional unwelcome visit from mice or, in more unfortunate cases, rats. These pesky rodents can be a nuisance, and while mice are less cringe-inducing than rats, most of us prefer not to share our living spaces with them. Fortunately, there are 11 effective methods for deterring these critters from invading your home.
Eliminate Dampness:
Mice and rats are drawn to homes in search of shelter and water. Dark, damp basements are particularly enticing. To deter them, invest in a dehumidifier and promptly fix any leaky pipes.
Seal Exterior Holes:
Regardless of your home’s age, any holes or cracks in your foundation and siding can invite mice and rats. Utilize caulking and other suitable materials to seal these openings on the outside of your house.
Address Interior Holes:
If you discover holes or cracks inside your home, use steel wool to block them. Fortunately, mice won’t chew through steel wool, making it an effective barrier.
Moth Balls:
While this may sound like an old-fashioned solution, it does work. Mice detest the smell of mothballs. Safely place them in your basement or other potential hiding spots, but remember to keep them away from your pets.
Peppermint Essential Oil:
Rodents also have an aversion to the strong scent of peppermint essential oil. Dab a few drops of the oil onto cotton balls and scatter them strategically around your home, ensuring they are out of your pets’ reach.
Cloves:
Mice and rats cannot stand the smell of cloves. Gather some cloves in a mesh bag and place it in areas where you suspect these rodents are hiding to drive them away.
Dryer Sheets:
It might sound unusual, but mice and rats are said to dislike the scent of dryer sheets. Distribute them around your home and use them to plug any holes and cracks.
Proper Food Storage:
Depriving mice and rats of easy access to food is a surefire way to encourage them to leave. Store your food in sealed, airtight containers and avoid leaving any food out in the open.
Ultrasonic Gadgets:
Special gadgets emit ultrasonic waves designed to deter mice and rats. While there are mixed reviews about their effectiveness, it’s worth considering as an option.
Baking Soda:
The smell and texture of baking soda are unappealing to mice and rats. Sprinkle it in areas where you’ve seen rodents or their droppings, but ensure your pets cannot access it, as it’s not safe for them.
Get a Mouser:
If you have pets, consider getting a cat. Cats are natural hunters, and just their presence alone can quickly rid your home of unwanted mice and rats.
By implementing these methods, you can create a less inviting environment for mice and rats in your home, ensuring that your living space remains rodent-free.
images source : The Cat Guide – Serious Eats / Photograph: Vicky Wasik – The Irish Times – House Method – Slate – The Alternative Daily – BestLife / Shutterstock – The Space Between – ohiostatewate rproofing
