How to get rid of mice in an apartment without poison

Understanding the Mouse Problem

Signs of a Mouse Infestation

Droppings and Urine Trails

Droppings and urine trails provide the most reliable evidence of a rodent presence. Fresh droppings appear as small, dark, rice‑shaped pellets; older ones turn lighter and crumbly. Urine leaves a faint, oily sheen that may become visible under a blacklight. Both substances carry pathogens, making prompt removal essential for health and for disrupting mouse activity.

Identify all locations where droppings and urine appear. Typical sites include kitchen cabinets, pantry shelves, behind appliances, and along baseboards. Use a flashlight to scan low‑light areas and a disposable glove to avoid direct contact.

Clean each contaminated surface with the following steps:

Wear gloves and a mask; seal the contaminated material in a plastic bag before disposal.
Apply a solution of hot water (at least 60 °C) and a mild detergent; scrub thoroughly.
Rinse with clean water and dry the area completely.
Disinfect with a 1 % bleach solution or an EPA‑approved disinfectant; allow the surface to remain wet for the recommended contact time.

After cleaning, eliminate the conditions that attract mice. Store food in airtight containers, remove crumbs and spills immediately, and fix any moisture leaks. Inspect walls, floors, and utility openings; seal gaps larger than ¼ inch with steel wool and caulk or with a durable metal mesh.

Regular monitoring reinforces the control effort. Place sticky traps or motion‑activated cameras along identified routes; replace them weekly. Persistent droppings or fresh urine indicate that entry points remain open or that the infestation continues, prompting further sealing and sanitation.

Proper handling of droppings and urine trails reduces disease risk, removes attractants, and creates an environment where mice are less likely to persist, supporting a poison‑free eradication strategy.

Gnaw Marks and Damage

Mice leave distinctive bite marks on wood, plastic, wiring and insulation. The teeth create clean, semicircular cuts about 2–6 mm wide, often appearing in clusters along edges, corners or where food is stored. Damage to electrical cords poses fire risk, while gnawed structural components can weaken walls and floors. Detecting these signs early prevents costly repairs and reduces health hazards associated with rodent droppings and urine.

To eliminate the problem without chemical agents, follow a systematic approach:

Inspect all accessible surfaces for fresh gnaw marks; prioritize areas near suspected entry points.
Seal openings larger than ¼ inch with steel wool, metal mesh or cement; replace damaged baseboards or vent covers.
Remove food sources by storing pantry items in airtight containers and cleaning crumbs from countertops and floors.
Set up snap traps or humane catch‑and‑release devices along walls and behind appliances; position them perpendicular to the mouse’s travel path.
Replace compromised wiring or insulation promptly; consult a licensed electrician for safety‑critical repairs.
Maintain a dry environment by fixing leaks and using dehumidifiers, as moisture attracts rodents.

Regular monitoring of repaired sections and continued exclusion measures ensures that gnaw marks do not reappear, keeping the apartment safe and free from rodent activity.

Strange Noises

Unexplained sounds behind walls, under floors, or inside cabinets frequently signal the presence of rodents in a residence.

Typical noises include:

Light scratching on insulation or woodwork
Rapid scurrying across ceilings or ducts
High‑pitched squeaks during quiet periods
Tapping against pipes or plumbing fixtures

The timing of these sounds often aligns with the animal’s nocturnal activity, becoming audible after sunset and before sunrise. Listening from a quiet room while turning off household appliances helps isolate the source. Pressing a hand against a wall can amplify vibrations, revealing the exact location of movement.

When strange sounds are confirmed, implement the following measures without resorting to toxic baits:

Inspect the exterior and interior for gaps larger than ¼ inch; seal with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing.
Place snap traps or electronic traps along identified pathways, positioning them perpendicular to walls and near known entry points.
Deploy natural repellents such as peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls or ultrasonic devices in affected rooms.
Remove food residues, store pantry items in airtight containers, and keep countertops free of crumbs.
Conduct regular cleaning of storage areas, discarding infested materials and vacuuming corners where droppings may accumulate.

Prompt response to abnormal noises prevents population growth, reduces structural damage, and eliminates health risks associated with rodent activity.

Prevention: The First Line of Defense

Sealing Entry Points

Inspecting Walls and Floors

Inspecting walls and floors is a critical component of a non‑chemical rodent control strategy.

Begin at the lowest point of each room; use a bright flashlight to illuminate baseboards, corners, and the space behind furniture.
Look for fresh droppings, which are dark, pellet‑shaped, and typically 3–6 mm long.
Identify gnaw marks on wood, plastic, or insulation; fresh scratches appear lighter than older ones.
Scan for grease or urine stains on walls, especially near cabinets and pantry areas.
Search for shredded paper, cotton, or fabric that may serve as nesting material.

Proceed systematically along each wall, moving upward in 12‑inch increments to ensure no section is missed. Examine the underside of floorboards and the edges of laminate or tile installations; rodents often travel along these concealed pathways.

When a potential entry point is detected, measure the opening. Any gap larger than ¼ inch can admit a mouse. Common sources include:

Gaps around pipe penetrations.
Openings around electrical wiring or cable bundles.
Cracks where baseboards meet the floor.
Unsealed edges of vent covers and exhaust fans.

Record each finding with location and dimensions. Apply appropriate sealing materials—steel wool combined with caulk for small cracks, hardware cloth for larger openings, and expanding foam for irregular gaps. Ensure that all seals are secure and that no new gaps are created during the process.

A thorough inspection and precise sealing of walls and floors eliminates the primary routes mice use to enter an apartment, allowing for effective control without reliance on toxic substances.

Addressing Gaps Around Pipes

Sealing openings around plumbing fixtures blocks one of the most common entry points for house mice. Small gaps, often invisible behind walls or beneath sinks, provide unobstructed pathways from exterior utility lines into living spaces. By eliminating these passages, you remove a critical route that rodents exploit to reach food, water and shelter.

First, inspect all visible pipe penetrations. Use a flashlight to trace each pipe from the wall to the floor, noting any cracks, holes or gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Pay special attention to areas where pipes enter the building envelope, such as the kitchen sink, bathroom faucet, washing‑machine inlet and dryer exhaust. Follow the exterior of the building to verify that the same openings are sealed on both sides.

Apply expanding polyurethane foam to gaps up to ½ in; let it cure, then trim excess.
For larger openings, insert steel wool or copper mesh, then cover with a layer of cement or metal flashing.
Use silicone-based caulk around flexible joints and around pipe collars where they meet the wall.
Install pipe sleeves or pipe collars made of metal or heavy‑duty PVC to create a tight seal that resists chewing.

After sealing, verify the integrity of the work by running a thin piece of paper or a cotton swab along the sealed edges; any movement indicates a remaining breach. Re‑apply sealant as needed. Periodically revisit high‑traffic areas—especially after renovations or moving furniture—to ensure that new gaps have not formed.

Consistent maintenance of sealed pipe gaps, combined with other non‑chemical deterrents, significantly reduces the likelihood of mouse infestation in an apartment.

Repairing Damaged Screens

Repairing damaged window and vent screens is a direct method for preventing rodents from entering a rental unit without resorting to toxic baits. A solid screen blocks the small openings that mice exploit, reducing the likelihood of infestation.

First, inspect every screen in the apartment. Look for tears, loose mesh, bent frames, and gaps around hinges. Mark each problem area before beginning repairs.

Gather the necessary supplies:

Replacement screen mesh (fiberglass or aluminum)
Screen frame splines
Spline roller
Utility knife or scissors
Screwdriver set
Weather‑resistant sealant
Measuring tape

Proceed with the repair:

Remove the damaged screen by loosening the spline with a screwdriver and lifting the mesh out of the frame.
Measure the frame dimensions and cut new mesh to size, leaving a 1‑inch excess on all sides.
Lay the mesh over the frame, ensuring even coverage.
Insert the spline into the groove, pressing it firmly with the roller to secure the mesh.
Trim excess mesh with the utility knife.
Apply sealant around the perimeter of the frame, especially where it meets the wall or window opening, to eliminate micro‑cracks.

After installation, test the screen by gently pulling on the mesh; it should remain taut and free of movement. Repeat the process for any additional screens, such as vent covers or balcony doors. Regularly check repaired screens for wear and reseal any emerging gaps.

A fully intact screening system removes a primary entry point for mice, supporting a non‑chemical approach to rodent control in an apartment setting.

Food and Water Management

Storing Food Securely

Secure food storage is a fundamental component of rodent‑free living spaces. Mice are attracted to accessible nutrients; eliminating those sources reduces the incentive to enter an apartment.

Use containers that lock out moisture and odors. Prefer glass or heavy‑wall plastic jars with silicone seals; avoid flimsy bags or open tins. Keep pantry shelves clear of crumbs, and place all containers on a stable surface away from walls to prevent gnawing.

Store dry goods in airtight jars with snap‑tight lids.
Refrigerate perishable items promptly; do not leave leftovers on countertops.
Transfer bulk purchases into smaller, sealed containers after opening.
Label containers with purchase dates and rotate stock to use older items first.
Clean spills immediately; wipe down surfaces with a mild detergent.

Regularly inspect storage areas for signs of damage. Replace compromised lids, repair cracks in shelves, and dispose of any food that shows signs of contamination. By maintaining a consistently sealed environment, the attraction for rodents diminishes, supporting a poison‑free approach to rodent management.

Cleaning Up Spills Immediately

Cleaning up spills at once removes food sources that attract rodents. Moist crumbs, sugary liquids, or pet food residues left on floors or countertops provide easy nourishment; eliminating them reduces the incentive for mice to explore the unit.

Wipe countertops, tables, and shelves with a damp cloth after each meal preparation.
Sweep or vacuum floors immediately after any dropped food or liquid.
Dispose of soaked paper towels or rags in a sealed trash bag.
Dry any wet surfaces with a clean towel to prevent lingering moisture.
Store all edible items in airtight containers to avoid accidental leaks.

Consistent removal of accidental messes deprives mice of sustenance, supporting a long‑term, non‑chemical approach to rodent control in an apartment.

Eliminating Standing Water

Standing water provides an easy drinking source for mice; removing it cuts off one of the few resources they need to survive in an apartment. Without access to liquid food, mice are less likely to establish nests and persist in the living space.

To eliminate standing water, follow these steps:

Inspect all rooms for visible puddles, leaks, or condensation on windows, walls, and ceilings.
Repair dripping pipes, faucet leaks, and roof or balcony seal failures promptly.
Empty pet water dishes, plant trays, and saucers each night; refill only when necessary.
Use a dehumidifier or increase ventilation in damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements to prevent moisture buildup.
Wipe up spills immediately and clean surfaces with a dry cloth to avoid lingering dampness.

Regular maintenance reinforces the removal of water sources. Schedule weekly checks of plumbing fixtures, under‑sink areas, and appliance connections. Keep floor drains clear of debris and ensure they flow freely. Place absorbent mats under refrigerators and washing machines, replacing them when saturated.

Combined with other non‑chemical mouse deterrents—such as sealing entry points and maintaining a clutter‑free environment—eliminating standing water significantly reduces the likelihood of a mouse infestation without resorting to poison.

Maintaining a Clean Environment

Regular Vacuuming and Mopping

Regular cleaning removes food sources and disrupts the sensory cues that mice rely on to locate shelter. By eliminating crumbs, spilled liquids, and waste, the apartment becomes unattractive to rodents.

Vacuuming targets particles that are invisible to the eye yet provide nourishment. It also extracts droppings, urine stains, and gnawed material, which carry scent markers used for navigation and communication. A high‑efficiency vacuum with a sealed bag prevents re‑distribution of debris.

Mopping eliminates residue left on hard floors, erases scent trails, and reduces moisture that encourages nesting. Using a disinfectant solution ensures that any trace of mouse odor is neutralized, making it harder for new individuals to recognize the space as a viable habitat.

Effective routine

Vacuum all floor surfaces, including under furniture and behind appliances, at least once daily.
Empty the vacuum container into a sealed trash bag and discard it outside the building.
Mop kitchen, bathroom, and entryway floors with a diluted bleach or enzymatic cleaner after each vacuum session.
Allow the floor to dry completely before replacing rugs or mats.
Repeat the cycle consistently for several weeks to break the mice’s foraging patterns.

Incorporating these practices into daily maintenance creates an environment that discourages mouse activity without relying on toxic substances.

Reducing Clutter

Reducing clutter eliminates hiding places and travel routes that mice use to move through an apartment. Stacked boxes, piles of laundry, and disorganized storage create warm, protected environments where rodents can nest and store food. By keeping surfaces clear and storing items in sealed containers, you remove the conditions that encourage infestation.

Implement the following actions:

Remove all cardboard boxes from living areas; replace them with plastic bins that have tight‑fitting lids.
Consolidate papers, magazines, and other paper products into a single, locked drawer; discard unnecessary items.
Keep clothing and linens folded and placed in closed wardrobes; avoid leaving piles on the floor.
Store pet food, grains, and snacks in airtight containers; place them on high shelves away from walls.
Regularly sweep and vacuum to eliminate crumbs and debris that attract rodents.

A tidy environment forces mice to seek shelter elsewhere, making non‑toxic control methods such as traps and exclusion more effective. Maintaining order also simplifies monitoring for signs of activity, allowing prompt response before a problem escalates.

Non-Toxic Removal Methods

Trapping Solutions

Snap Traps: Proper Baiting and Placement

Snap traps are an effective non‑chemical option for eliminating mice in an apartment. Their success depends on two factors: attractive bait and strategic placement.

Choose bait that appeals to the rodent’s natural preferences. Common choices include:

Small pieces of peanut butter or cheese
Bits of cooked bacon or ham
Sunflower seeds or nuts
Dried fruit or chocolate

Apply a pea‑sized amount to the trigger plate; excess bait can allow the mouse to feed without activating the mechanism.

Placement determines capture rates. Position traps where mouse activity is evident:

Along walls, opposite the direction of travel
Near known entry points such as gaps around pipes or vents
Behind appliances, under cabinets, and in cluttered corners
In dark, low‑traffic areas where rodents feel safe

Set traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end facing the wall. This orientation forces the mouse to run into the mechanism. Ensure the trap is stable; a wobbling device reduces the likelihood of a successful strike.

Check traps daily. Dispose of captured mice promptly, reset the trap with fresh bait, and relocate any unused traps to new activity zones. Consistent monitoring and repositioning maintain pressure on the infestation and prevent mice from establishing alternative routes.

Live Traps: Humane Capture and Release

Live traps provide a non‑lethal method for removing mice from an apartment. The device captures the animal in a confined compartment, allowing owners to release it outdoors away from the residence.

Snap‑back cage traps: spring‑loaded door closes when the mouse touches a baited trigger.
Box traps: hinged door opens under the weight of the rodent, sealing the interior.
Multi‑catch traps: contain several chambers, increasing capture efficiency during high‑activity periods.

Effective placement follows the rodents’ travel routes. Position traps along walls, behind appliances, and near known droppings. Keep traps perpendicular to the wall, with the entry side facing the baseboard. Use a small amount of attractive bait—peanut butter, cheese, or sunflower seeds—applied to the trigger mechanism.

Inspect traps at least twice daily. When a mouse is caught, wear disposable gloves, cover the trap with a cloth, and transport it at least one mile from the building to prevent re‑entry. Release the animal in a wooded or field area, allowing it to find shelter quickly.

Maintain trap performance by cleaning each compartment with mild soap after every use and checking for damage. Replace worn springs or hinges promptly. Combine live trapping with sanitation measures: seal food containers, repair entry holes, and eliminate clutter that offers hiding places.

When applied consistently, live traps eliminate the mouse problem without chemicals, preserving both occupant safety and animal welfare.

Glue Traps: Ethical Considerations

Glue traps are a common non‑poison method for removing rodents from indoor spaces. They consist of a sticky surface that immobilizes mice when they step onto the trap.

Ethical concerns associated with glue traps include:

Prolonged distress: mice may suffer for hours or days before dying from exhaustion, dehydration, or injury.
Non‑target capture: insects, small reptiles, or other harmless creatures can become trapped unintentionally.
Disposal difficulty: dead or dying animals remain adhered to the trap, creating a humane‑risk scenario for handlers.
Legal restrictions: several jurisdictions classify glue traps as inhumane and prohibit their sale or use.

Experts recommend limiting glue‑trap use to situations where alternative humane devices are unavailable. When deployment is unavoidable, follow these practices:

Place traps along confirmed mouse pathways to reduce the number of devices required.
Inspect traps at least twice daily to minimize suffering.
Wear protective gloves during removal and seal captured animals in a disposable container for immediate euthanasia by a licensed professional.
Record the location and frequency of captures to assess the effectiveness of the overall control program.

Choosing snap traps, live‑catch cages, or exclusion techniques typically aligns better with animal‑welfare standards while still achieving rodent reduction without chemical agents.

Natural Repellents

Peppermint Oil and Essential Oils

Peppermint oil, a volatile essential oil, emits a strong menthol scent that rodents find irritating. When applied correctly, it creates an environment that mice avoid, reducing the likelihood of nesting or foraging inside the living space.

Effective use requires concentrated preparation and strategic placement. Common practice includes:

Diluting 10–15 drops of peppermint oil in 250 ml of water, adding a few teaspoons of mild dish soap to emulsify.
Soaking cotton balls in the solution and positioning them behind appliances, under sinks, in wall voids, and near known entry points.
Refreshing the cotton balls every 3–4 days, or sooner if the scent fades.

Other essential oils with documented repellent properties—such as eucalyptus, clove, and citronella—can be combined in the same mixture to broaden the olfactory deterrent. A blend of 5 drops each of peppermint, eucalyptus, and clove oil, mixed with the same water‑soap base, offers a multi‑note profile that discourages mice more persistently.

Limitations include the need for regular reapplication, reduced efficacy in heavily infested areas, and potential sensitivity of pets or residents to strong aromas. For best results, integrate oil treatments with physical barriers (sealed cracks, door sweeps) and sanitation measures (eliminating food sources, securing garbage). This integrated approach maintains a poison‑free environment while keeping mice at bay.

Commercial Ultrasonic Repellents

Commercial ultrasonic repellents are devices that emit high‑frequency sound waves beyond the range of human hearing. The sound creates an uncomfortable environment for rodents, prompting them to vacate the treated area. Manufacturers calibrate frequencies to target the auditory sensitivity of mice, typically between 20 kHz and 50 kHz, and program intermittent pulse patterns to prevent habituation.

Effectiveness depends on proper placement, coverage area, and maintenance. Units should be positioned at least one foot from walls, away from large furniture that could block sound propagation. For a typical one‑bedroom apartment, two devices placed in opposite corners usually provide sufficient overlap. Continuous operation requires a reliable power source; most models include a plug‑in adapter, while some offer battery backup for temporary outages. Regular cleaning of the unit’s exterior prevents dust accumulation that can attenuate acoustic output.

Key considerations when selecting a commercial ultrasonic repellent:

Frequency range: models covering 20 kHz–50 kHz address both adult mice and juveniles.
Coverage rating: verify square‑foot specifications match the apartment’s floor plan.
Warranty and certification: reputable brands offer at least one‑year warranty and comply with FCC or CE standards.
User feedback: independent reviews indicate higher success rates for devices with adjustable pulse intervals.

Ultrasonic repellents avoid chemical exposure, making them suitable for households with pets or children. Nevertheless, they do not eliminate existing infestations; sealing entry points and removing food sources remain necessary. Combining sound devices with physical exclusion measures maximizes the likelihood of achieving a mouse‑free living space without resorting to poison.

DIY Repellent Sprays

Mice avoid strong odors; a homemade repellent spray leverages this behavior without toxic chemicals.

Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, add two teaspoons of peppermint essential oil, and stir in a tablespoon of dish soap to emulsify. Transfer the solution to a spray bottle, label, and store in a cool place.

Apply the spray along baseboards, behind appliances, and near entry points every three days. Reapply after cleaning or if the scent fades.

Ingredients checklist

Water
White vinegar
Peppermint essential oil
Dish soap

Application routine

Spray a thin, even coating on targeted surfaces.
Allow the liquid to dry completely.
Monitor for mouse activity; repeat as needed.

Peppermint oil disrupts rodent scent trails, while vinegar adds a pungent note that deters nesting. Dish soap prevents the oil from separating, ensuring consistent coverage. The formulation is safe for humans and pets when used as directed, and it leaves no residue that damages flooring or furniture.

Regular use creates an environment mice find hostile, reducing the need for lethal measures.

Post-Extermination Measures

Cleaning and Sanitization

Disinfecting Contaminated Areas

After mice have been active, surfaces may contain urine, droppings, and saliva that can transmit disease. Immediate cleaning removes the visible waste; thorough disinfection eliminates pathogens that remain after the initial wash.

Begin by wearing disposable gloves and a mask to prevent exposure. Remove all bedding, food containers, and any porous items that show signs of contamination; discard them in sealed bags. Vacuum the area with a HEPA‑filter attachment to capture dried particles, then wipe down hard surfaces with a detergent solution to loosen residue.

Apply a disinfectant that is effective against hantavirus, salmonella, and leptospira. Recommended agents include:

1 % bleach solution (mix one part household bleach with nine parts water)
EPA‑registered disinfectant labeled for rodent‑borne pathogens
Hydrogen peroxide at 3 % concentration

Spray the chosen product liberally on countertops, cabinets, shelves, and floor sections where droppings were found. Allow the contact time specified on the label—typically five to ten minutes—before wiping with a clean cloth. For crevices and gaps, use a disposable brush to reach hidden spots, then rinse with water if the disinfectant requires it.

After the surface dries, dispose of gloves, masks, and cleaning tools in sealed bags. Launder any washable fabrics at the highest temperature safe for the material. Maintain a schedule of weekly inspections and spot cleaning to keep the environment free of residual contamination while other non‑toxic mouse‑control measures are implemented.

Removing Odors

Mice leave urine, droppings, and scent marks that attract more rodents and create unpleasant smells. Eliminating these odors removes the chemical cues that encourage re‑infestation and improves indoor air quality.

Identify all contaminated areas: corners, cabinets, behind appliances, and storage boxes.
Wear disposable gloves and a mask; collect droppings and nesting material in a sealed bag.
Clean surfaces with hot water and a detergent that emulsifies fats; rinse thoroughly.
Apply an enzymatic cleaner to porous materials (carpet, upholstery, insulation). Enzymes break down organic residues that cause odor.
For hardwood floors or tile, spray a mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1) and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
After drying, place activated charcoal or baking soda in the cleaned area for 24–48 hours to absorb lingering smells.
Dispose of cleaning waste in a sealed container and wash hands immediately.

Ventilation accelerates odor removal. Open windows, run exhaust fans, and use a portable air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter and activated carbon to capture volatile compounds. Re‑seal cracks and gaps after cleaning to prevent new scent marking. Maintaining a odor‑free environment reduces the likelihood of mice returning without relying on toxic substances.

Preventing Re-infestation

Ongoing Vigilance

Ongoing vigilance means maintaining constant awareness of rodent activity and responding immediately to any signs of intrusion.

Examine kitchen surfaces, pantry shelves, and behind appliances each evening for droppings, gnaw marks, or shredded material.
Check all traps at least once daily; remove captured mice, reset mechanisms, and record locations that yield catches.
Inspect doors, windows, and utility openings for gaps larger than ¼ inch; apply steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh to block entry.

Implement monitoring tools that operate without chemicals. Motion‑activated cameras placed near suspected pathways reveal movement patterns, allowing you to adjust barrier placement before a population establishes. Replace scented deterrents, such as peppermint oil pads, every two weeks to sustain their effect.

Adopt a structured inspection schedule. Allocate a specific time each week for a thorough walkthrough, noting any new damage or fresh droppings in a log. Use the record to prioritize repairs and to relocate traps to newly vulnerable zones.

Early detection curtails the need for lethal substances, preserves food safety, and maintains a clean living environment. Continuous observation, prompt trap management, and regular sealing of access points together form a reliable, non‑toxic strategy for keeping mice out of an apartment.

Regular Home Maintenance

Regular home upkeep directly reduces rodent activity in an apartment. By eliminating the conditions that attract mice, residents create an environment where the pests cannot establish a foothold.

Inspect walls, baseboards, and utility openings weekly; seal cracks with steel‑wool and caulk.
Store all food in airtight containers; clean crumbs and spills immediately after meals.
Keep countertops, floors, and behind appliances free of debris; vacuum or sweep daily in high‑traffic areas.
Remove clutter from closets, storage rooms, and under furniture; dispose of unnecessary boxes and papers.
Trim vegetation and remove debris from balconies and windowsills; maintain a clear perimeter to discourage entry.
Empty trash bins regularly; use containers with tight‑fitting lids and place them away from entry points.
Schedule quarterly checks of plumbing and drainage; repair leaks that provide water sources for rodents.

Consistent application of these practices prevents mice from finding shelter, food, or water, thereby eliminating the need for chemical control methods.