Mice don’t need much of an invitation to move in. All that’s required is just a tiny gap and a little food. Once they’re inside, they can be tough to remove. The best approach? Make sure they never get in, to begin with. Of course, that’s easier said than done if you don’t know the right strategies and steps.
The good news is that a few simple tactics can go a long way in keeping your home rodent-free.
- Start by sealing up entry points. Mice can squeeze through surprisingly small holes (think a dime), so check your home’s foundation, walls, and roofline for any gaps or cracks. Use steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth to block openings; mice can chew through a lot, but they won’t get through metal. Pay special attention to areas where pipes, vents, or cables enter, as these are common weak spots.
- Next, cut off their food supply. Store dry goods in airtight containers, clean up crumbs and spills immediately, and take the trash out regularly. Even pet food can be a draw, so don’t leave it sitting out overnight. Compost bins should be tightly sealed, and bird feeders should be set well away from your house (spilled seeds are an open invitation to hungry rodents).
- Your yard plays a big role in mouse prevention, too. Overgrown grass, leaf piles, and stacked firewood create the perfect hiding spots. Keep everything trimmed, store firewood at least 20 feet from your home, and clear out any debris that could double as shelter. If you’ve got a garden, consider planting mint, lavender, or rosemary (rodents hate the smell, and you get fresh herbs out of the bargain).
- Water is just as important to mice as food. Leaky pipes, clogged gutters, and standing water around your property can all attract them. Fix any plumbing problems, keep your gutters clear, and make sure there’s no excess moisture in basements or crawl spaces.
- If you really want to go on the offensive, think about using deterrents. Peppermint oil, ammonia-soaked cotton balls, and ultrasonic repellents might help, but they’re not foolproof. A cat, on the other hand, can sometimes be a highly effective mouse deterrent, just make sure your feline enforcer has an appetite for the job. Not all cats are mousers.
The key to mouse prevention is staying aware of the risks. A few simple steps, like sealing gaps, eliminating food sources, and keeping your yard tidy can make all the difference. If mice do show up despite your best efforts, act fast. The longer they stay, the harder they are to remove. If you’re dealing with an infestation now, get in touch with the Mice Mob pros for expert help.