Plants That Repel Mice: Which Herbs Deter Rodents

Understanding Rodent Behavior and Repellents

Why Mice are a Problem

Mice infiltrate homes and businesses in search of food, shelter, and nesting material. Their presence creates immediate health hazards: droppings and urine contaminate surfaces, fostering the spread of pathogens such as Hantavirus, Salmonella, and Leptospira. These microbes can cause severe respiratory, gastrointestinal, and renal illnesses in humans and domestic animals.

Structural damage follows quickly. Rodents gnaw on electrical wiring, increasing the risk of short circuits and fires. They also compromise insulation, plumbing, and wooden components, leading to costly repairs. Their burrowing activity undermines foundations and garden beds, disrupting plant roots and soil stability.

Food supplies suffer direct loss. Mice consume and spoil stored grains, cereals, and packaged goods, resulting in economic waste. They also contaminate pantry items with urine and feces, rendering entire stocks unusable.

Reproduction amplifies the threat. A single female can produce five litters per year, each containing up to twelve offspring. Populations can expand from a few individuals to hundreds within months, overwhelming control efforts.

Summarized impacts:

Disease transmission through droppings and saliva
Electrical and structural damage
Food contamination and economic loss
Rapid population growth accelerating infestation

Understanding these risks clarifies why effective deterrents, including specific herbaceous plants, are essential for maintaining safe, functional environments.

The Science Behind Natural Deterrents

How Herbs Affect Rodents

Herbs deter rodents primarily through volatile compounds that irritate the olfactory system, disrupt feeding behavior, or cause mild physiological stress. Essential oils such as menthol, eucalyptol, and thymol interfere with scent tracking, making environments unattractive to mice.

Mint (Mentha spp.) – high menthol content masks food odors; contact causes nasal irritation.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – linalool and camphor create a scent barrier; prolonged exposure reduces foraging activity.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) – rosmarinic acid and cineole repel by overwhelming chemosensory receptors.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – thymol acts as a neurotoxicant at low concentrations, discouraging nesting.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) – carvacrol and thymol produce strong antimicrobial odor that mice avoid.
Sage (Salvia officinalis) – thujone and camphor cause aversion through respiratory irritation.

Application methods rely on sustained release of aromas: planting herbs around entry points, crushing leaves to release oils, or using dried material in sachets. Regular replacement maintains potency, as volatile compounds degrade within weeks. Combining multiple species expands the spectrum of active chemicals, enhancing overall deterrence.

Limitations of Herbal Repellents

Herbal deterrents are frequently cited as natural alternatives for rodent control, yet their performance depends on several constraints. The active compounds in aromatic plants degrade quickly when exposed to sunlight, rain, or high temperatures, reducing the period during which they repel mice. Concentrations sufficient to affect rodents often exceed levels that are practical for garden planting, and the scent intensity varies with plant maturity and soil fertility.

Potency fluctuates among mouse species; some populations show little aversion.
Effective repellent action requires dense, continuously maintained foliage, which can be labor‑intensive.
Volatile oils may irritate or harm small pets and beneficial insects if applied in large quantities.
Weather conditions dilute or disperse the scent, diminishing efficacy during wet or windy periods.
Herbs alone rarely achieve complete exclusion; infestations often persist without supplemental measures.

These factors limit the reliability of herbs as standalone solutions. Successful rodent management typically combines botanical repellents with sanitation, physical barriers, and, when necessary, targeted mechanical or chemical controls.

Top Herbs for Mouse Repellence

Mint Family Herbs

Peppermint

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) contains high concentrations of menthol and pulegone, volatile compounds that irritate the sensory receptors of rodents. When released into the air, these substances create an odor profile that mice find repellent, prompting them to avoid treated areas.

Research indicates that peppermint oil disrupts the olfactory navigation of mice, reducing their willingness to enter spaces where the scent persists. The effect is strongest when the oil is applied in a concentrated form and refreshed regularly to counteract volatilization.

Practical applications include:

Soaking cotton balls in pure peppermint essential oil and placing them in corners, cabinets, and near entry points; replace every 3–4 days.
Mixing 10–15 drops of oil with water in a spray bottle; misting baseboards, walls, and exterior foundations weekly.
Distributing dried peppermint leaves in sachets or mesh bags; positioning them in drawers and pantry shelves, renewing the material monthly.

Safety considerations:

Avoid direct contact with skin; dilute oil when handling.
Keep away from pets, especially cats, as concentrated peppermint oil can cause respiratory irritation.
Do not use peppermint oil near food preparation surfaces without thorough cleaning afterward.

Effectiveness diminishes in high‑humidity environments, where moisture reduces volatile release. Combining peppermint with other aromatic deterrents, such as eucalyptus or clove, can extend the repellent period and broaden the spectrum of odors that discourage rodent activity.

Spearmint

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) emits a strong, menthol‑rich aroma that mice find unpleasant. The volatile oils, primarily carvone and limonene, interfere with the rodents’ olfactory receptors, reducing their willingness to enter treated areas.

Plant spearmint in sunny to partially shaded locations; well‑drained soil enhances growth.
Maintain a dense stand by trimming regularly; pruning prevents flowering, which can weaken the scent.
Position potted spearmint near entry points, pantry doors, or along baseboards; replace pots every 8–10 weeks for sustained potency.
Combine with other aromatic herbs such as rosemary or lavender for a broader deterrent spectrum.

Research indicates that spearmint’s effectiveness peaks when foliage is fresh. Harvest leaves daily and crush them to release oils, or steep a handful in hot water to create a spray for countertops and cracks. The plant is non‑toxic to humans and pets, making it a safe alternative to chemical repellents.

Long‑term use may encourage mice to avoid an entire garden zone, as the scent persists in the soil and surrounding air. For maximum coverage, establish a continuous border of spearmint around the perimeter of structures or garden beds.

Catnip

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) contains nepetalactone, a volatile compound that rodents find aversive. Studies show mice avoid surfaces treated with catnip oil or dried foliage, likely due to the strong scent interfering with their olfactory receptors.

Application methods:

Sprinkle dried catnip around entry points, baseboards, and storage areas.
Soak cotton balls in catnip essential oil and place them in cabinets or under appliances.
Mix catnip leaves with other deterrent herbs (e.g., mint, rosemary) to enhance scent coverage.

Effectiveness:

Laboratory trials report a 70‑85 % reduction in mouse activity within 48 hours of treatment.
Field observations confirm sustained avoidance for up to two weeks before reapplication is needed.

Safety considerations:

Non‑toxic to humans and most pets; however, felines may be attracted to catnip, potentially increasing indoor activity.
Avoid excessive quantities in food storage areas to prevent contamination of consumables.

Limitations:

Strong scent may diminish in humid environments, requiring more frequent refreshment.
Alone, catnip may not eliminate an established infestation; integration with traps or exclusion measures improves outcomes.

Other Effective Herbs

Lavender

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) emits a strong, citrus‑floral scent that rodents find unpleasant. The volatile oils, primarily linalool and linalyl acetate, interfere with mice’s olfactory receptors, reducing their willingness to enter treated areas.

Effective application methods include:

Dried bundles placed in corners, closets, and pantry shelves; replace every 4–6 weeks to maintain potency.
Essential oil sprays diluted 1 % in water, applied to entry points, baseboards, and behind appliances; reapply after rain or cleaning.
Crushed fresh stems scattered around garden beds or outdoor storage sheds; remove after two weeks to prevent plant decay.

Studies show lavender reduces mouse activity by up to 30 % compared to untreated controls, though results vary with concentration and environmental conditions. The herb poses no toxicity risk to humans or pets when used as described, but excessive ingestion by livestock may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation.

Cultivation considerations: prefer well‑drained, sunny soil; prune annually to encourage aromatic leaf growth. Overwatering diminishes oil production, lowering repellent effectiveness. Harvest before flowering for maximum scent concentration.

Rosemary

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) emits a strong, aromatic oil rich in camphor, cineole, and rosmarinic acid, compounds that are unpleasant to rodents. Laboratory studies show that mouse olfactory receptors are irritated by these volatile substances, causing avoidance behavior. Field observations confirm that rosemary planted around foundations, garden beds, or stored in sachets reduces mouse activity in the immediate vicinity.

Effective application methods include:

Planting mature rosemary shrubs at entry points, such as doorways and foundation cracks, creates a living barrier that continuously releases repellent volatiles.
Drying rosemary leaves and placing them in cloth bags near pantry shelves, garage corners, or attic spaces provides a low‑maintenance deterrent.
Preparing a spray by steeping fresh rosemary in hot water, cooling the infusion, and applying it to surfaces where mouse trails appear, delivers a short‑term repellent layer.
Mixing crushed rosemary with other aromatic herbs (e.g., mint, sage) enhances the overall scent profile, increasing deterrent potency.

Rosemary tolerates a range of soil conditions, thrives in full sun, and requires minimal watering once established, making it a practical choice for both ornamental gardens and functional pest‑control zones. Its non‑toxic nature ensures safety for humans, pets, and beneficial insects, allowing unrestricted use in residential settings. Regular pruning maintains plant vigor and maximizes leaf production, thereby sustaining the repellent effect over time.

Sage

Sage (Salvia officinalis) contains volatile oils, particularly thujone and camphor, that emit a strong aroma unattractive to mice. Laboratory assays demonstrate reduced rodent activity in environments where fresh or dried sage is present, suggesting a sensory deterrent effect rather than toxicity.

Application methods include:

Placing dried sage bundles in pantry corners, closets, and crawl spaces.
Sprinkling crushed fresh leaves around garden beds where rodents are known to forage.
Preparing a diluted sage essential‑oil spray (10 ml oil per litre water) and misting entry points such as door thresholds and vent openings.

Effectiveness peaks when the plant material is refreshed weekly, as volatile compounds dissipate over time. Sage tolerates a range of soil types but thrives in well‑drained, slightly alkaline conditions with full sun exposure. Regular pruning encourages leaf production, maintaining a consistent source of repellent foliage.

Safety considerations: Sage is non‑toxic to humans and most pets when used as a deterrent. However, concentrated essential oil should not be applied directly to surfaces that contact food, and inhalation of large quantities may irritate sensitive individuals.

Integrating sage with other rodent‑repelling herbs—such as mint, rosemary, and lavender—creates a multi‑compound barrier that enhances overall deterrence. Consistent placement and renewal of plant material constitute the most reliable strategy for minimizing mouse intrusion.

Wormwood

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) emits a potent, bitter aroma that rodents find intolerable. The plant’s essential oils, particularly thujone and various sesquiterpene lactones, create an olfactory barrier that discourages mice from entering treated areas.

Key characteristics that contribute to rodent deterrence include:

High concentration of volatile compounds that mask food scents.
Strong, persistent fragrance that remains effective after drying.
Low palatability, reducing the likelihood of consumption by rodents.

Practical applications for household pest control are straightforward. Dried wormwood leaves can be placed in cloth sachets near entry points, ground into a powder and scattered along baseboards, or incorporated into a mulch layer around garden beds. Live plants positioned at the perimeter of a yard or balcony create a continuous barrier, especially when combined with other aromatic herbs such as mint, rosemary, or lavender.

Effectiveness reports indicate that wormwood reduces mouse activity by up to 60 % in confined spaces, though results vary with infestation level and environmental conditions. Pairing wormwood with additional repellents enhances overall performance and minimizes the chance of rodents adapting to a single scent.

Safety considerations are essential. Thujone is toxic in large quantities; therefore, wormwood should not be used in food preparation, and sachets must be kept out of reach of children and pets. When planting, avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can diminish the herb’s aromatic potency.

Practical Application of Herbal Repellents

Growing Repellent Herbs

Indoor Cultivation

Indoor cultivation of rodent‑deterring herbs offers a practical, chemical‑free strategy for homeowners. Successful growth requires adequate lighting, well‑draining soil, and consistent moisture. Place pots near windows that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight; supplement with fluorescent or LED grow lights when natural light is insufficient.

Select herbs known for strong aromatic compounds that mice find unpleasant. Effective options include:

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) – high menthol concentration.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – strong floral scent.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) – resinous oils.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – pungent thymol.
Sage (Salvia officinalis) – earthy aroma.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) – nepetalactone, deterrent to many rodents.

Maintain each plant in a pot with a diameter of 8–12 inches, using a peat‑based mix enriched with perlite for aeration. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and diminish aromatic potency. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water‑soluble formula to sustain leaf production.

Position the herbs where mice are likely to travel—along baseboards, near entry points, or in kitchen cabinets. Replace foliage periodically; fresh leaves release stronger volatile oils, enhancing the repellent effect. Combine several species to broaden the scent spectrum and reduce the chance of rodent adaptation. Regular pruning prevents flowering, which can weaken the plants’ defensive compounds.

Outdoor Planting

Outdoor planting offers a practical method for reducing mouse activity by establishing a barrier of aromatic herbs that rodents find unappealing. The scent compounds released by certain species interfere with mice’s sensory receptors, discouraging them from foraging or nesting nearby.

Mint (Mentha spp.) – vigorous growth, strong menthol odor; plant in containers to prevent spread.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) – woody stems, pine‑like aroma; thrives in full sun, well‑drained soil.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – low‑lying habit, earthy fragrance; suitable for ground cover along pathways.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – sweet, floral scent; prefers alkaline, sandy soil and full exposure.
Sage (Salvia officinalis) – sharp, herbaceous odor; tolerates partial shade and moderate moisture.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) – robust flavor, strong essential oils; benefits from dry, sunny locations.

Successful implementation requires attention to planting conditions. Space herbs 12–18 inches apart to allow airflow and prevent dense foliage that could shelter pests. Select locations receiving the sunlight levels indicated for each species; most rodent‑repelling herbs favor full sun, while a few tolerate partial shade. Amend soil with organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient availability, and water consistently until established.

Integrate herbs into the landscape by positioning them along building foundations, garden edges, and fence lines. Use raised beds or pots to confine aggressive spreaders such as mint. Combine multiple species to create a diversified scent profile, enhancing deterrent effect while supporting pollinator activity. Regular pruning maintains plant vigor and sustains aromatic output.

While aromatic herbs contribute significantly to mouse control, they function best when paired with sanitation measures—removing food sources, sealing entry points, and eliminating debris. Consistent maintenance of the herb barrier maximizes its repellent properties and supports a healthier garden ecosystem.

Using Herbs as Deterrents

Sachets and Pouches

Sachets and pouches provide a portable, controlled means of delivering rodent‑repelling botanicals throughout a home or storage area. Fabric, muslin, or breathable mesh containers allow volatile oils to disperse while protecting the herbs from moisture and direct contact with surfaces.

To construct an effective sachet, follow these steps:

Choose a breathable material that can be sealed by tying or stitching.
Cut the fabric to a size of 4–6 inches square; larger sizes may retain excess moisture.
Fill the pouch with a measured blend of dried herbs known for rodent deterrence.
Secure the closure tightly to prevent spillage while maintaining airflow.

Herbs commonly used in rodent‑repellent sachets include:

Peppermint (Mentha piperita) – high menthol content creates an odor mice avoid.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – strong scent interferes with rodent sensory pathways.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) – aromatic compounds disrupt foraging behavior.
Sage (Salvia officinalis) – pungent oil acts as a natural irritant.

Placement of sachets influences efficacy. Position them near entry points, under appliances, inside cabinets, and in attic corners. Replace the contents every two to four weeks, as scent potency diminishes over time. For extended protection, rotate multiple sachets to maintain continuous coverage.

Safety considerations include keeping sachets out of reach of children and pets, and storing them in dry locations to prevent mold growth. When using the sachets in food‑storage areas, ensure the herbs are fully dried to avoid contamination.

Overall, sachets and pouches combine ease of use with targeted delivery of botanical repellents, offering a practical, non‑chemical strategy for managing rodent activity.

Essential Oils

Essential oils extracted from aromatic herbs provide a natural barrier against rodent intrusion. Their volatile compounds interfere with the olfactory receptors of mice, creating an environment that mice avoid.

Key oils with proven repellent activity include:

Peppermint oil – high menthol content disrupts scent trails.
Eucalyptus oil – phenolic constituents mask food odors.
Clove oil – eugenol acts as a sensory irritant.
Lavender oil – linalool overwhelms rodent scent detection.
Citronella oil – citronellal masks attractants and signals danger.

Effective deployment involves saturating cotton balls or small fabric pads with a few drops of oil and placing them near entry points, food storage areas, and nesting sites. For larger spaces, a diluted spray (approximately 5 % oil in water with a mild emulsifier) can be applied to baseboards, cracks, and behind appliances. Reapplication every 48–72 hours maintains potency, as oils evaporate quickly.

Safety considerations require ventilation and avoidance of direct skin contact; gloves and eye protection are advisable during handling. Pets, especially cats and dogs, may be sensitive to concentrated oils, so placement should be restricted to areas inaccessible to animals. Essential oils complement, rather than replace, structural exclusion methods such as sealing gaps and maintaining cleanliness. When integrated into a comprehensive pest-management plan, these botanical extracts reduce mouse activity without reliance on synthetic chemicals.

Fresh Cuttings

Fresh cuttings provide an immediate source of aromatic foliage that can be placed where mouse activity is observed. Unlike mature plants, cuttings release volatile compounds quickly, creating a short‑term barrier without the need for soil preparation.

Effective herbs for rodent deterrence include:

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) – strong menthol scent.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) – contains nepetalactone, toxic to mice.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) – resinous oils disrupt rodent olfaction.
Sage (Salvia officinalis) – earthy aroma repels nesting behavior.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – thymol vapor deters feeding.

To prepare cuttings, select healthy, disease‑free stems 4–6 inches long, remove lower leaves, and place the cut end in water or a moist rooting medium. Within 24 hours, the tissue begins to exude essential oils, increasing potency. Replace the water daily to prevent bacterial growth.

Deploy cuttings by arranging bundles in attic corners, pantry shelves, or garden edges. Secure bundles with twine or place them in breathable containers to maintain airflow. Rotate fresh cuttings every 3–5 days to sustain volatile emission levels.

Monitor rodent activity; a decline within a week indicates sufficient deterrent effect. Replace depleted cuttings promptly, as oil concentration diminishes after prolonged exposure. Regular renewal maintains an environment unfavorable to mice without chemical pesticides.

Best Practices for Maximizing Efficacy

Strategic Placement

Strategic placement of rodent‑deterring herbs maximizes their effectiveness. Positioning must consider the rodents’ preferred pathways, nesting sites, and food sources.

Place aromatic herbs such as mint, lavender, and rosemary near entry points—doors, windows, and foundation cracks. A small pot on the sill or a sachet in the gap creates a scent barrier that discourages intrusion. In kitchens, locate basil or thyme in the pantry, especially on shelves that hold grains or cereals. A few sprigs tucked into the corners of cabinets add a continuous repellent presence.

Around the exterior, establish a herb border along the foundation. Planting a continuous strip of oregano, sage, or catnip 2–3 feet wide prevents mice from crossing the perimeter. For garden beds, intersperse these plants among vegetables; the aromatic foliage protects crops while deterring burrowing.

When using dried herbs, distribute them in cotton bags or mesh pouches. Hang them from beams, attic rafters, or under sink cabinets where mice travel. Replace the material every few weeks to maintain potency.

Near doors and windows: mint, lavender, rosemary (live pots or sachets)
Inside pantry and cabinets: basil, thyme (fresh sprigs or dried bundles)
Foundation perimeter: oregano, sage, catnip (planted as a border)
Attic and crawl spaces: dried herb bags (cotton or mesh)

Consistent reapplication and monitoring of mouse activity guide adjustments. Relocating herbs to newly identified pathways sustains deterrence over time.

Regular Replacement

Herbal deterrents lose potency as their essential oils evaporate or degrade. Replace plant material before the scent diminishes to maintain effectiveness against rodents.

Typical replacement intervals range from two to four weeks for fresh cuttings, and from three to six months for established potted herbs. Adjust timing according to climate, indoor heating, and observed decline in rodent activity.

Signs that replacement is needed include:

Fading aroma or loss of strong scent
Wilting or yellowing foliage in potted specimens
Increased mouse sightings or droppings near the herb placement

When renewing herbs, follow these steps:

Remove spent plants and dispose of them away from the home.
Clean the planting container with mild detergent and rinse thoroughly.
Introduce new seedlings or cuttings of the same species, preferably from a reputable source.
Water appropriately and position the plants where mouse traffic is highest, such as near entry points or pantry doors.
Monitor scent strength weekly; replant if the odor weakens before the scheduled interval.

Proper storage of harvested herbs extends their usefulness. Keep dried leaves in airtight containers, away from light and heat, and replace the supply every three months to prevent loss of repellent compounds.

Combining Methods

Herbal deterrents work best when integrated with physical and environmental controls. Planting strong‑scented species such as mint, lavender, rosemary, and oregano around foundations, entry points, and storage areas creates a volatile barrier that rodents avoid. Pairing these herbs with sealed gaps, steel wool, and door sweeps eliminates access routes that scent alone cannot block.

A practical regimen includes:

Planting a perimeter of mint and lavender in garden beds and pots adjacent to the house.
Sprinkling dried rosemary or oregano in crawl spaces and attics, refreshing the material monthly to maintain potency.
Installing ultrasonic emitters or motion‑activated traps in zones where herb coverage is dense, ensuring rodents encounter multiple deterrents simultaneously.
Maintaining a clean environment by storing food in airtight containers and disposing of waste promptly; the absence of attractants amplifies the effectiveness of the aromatic plants.

Combining botanical repellents with structural exclusion and mechanical devices produces a layered defense that reduces mouse activity more reliably than any single method. Regular monitoring and adjustment of herb placement sustain the repellent effect throughout seasonal changes.

Addressing Common Concerns and Troubleshooting

Potential Drawbacks of Herbal Repellents

Herbal repellents can be attractive for homeowners seeking natural alternatives to chemical rodent control, yet several limitations must be considered.

The efficacy of aromatic plants such as mint, lavender, or rosemary varies with environmental conditions. Concentrations sufficient to deter mice often require dense planting or frequent harvesting, which may be impractical in small gardens or indoor settings.

Potential drawbacks include:

Inconsistent performance – effectiveness declines when humidity rises, temperature drops, or when rodents become acclimated to the scent.
Allergenic risk – volatile oils may trigger respiratory irritation or skin reactions in sensitive individuals, especially in enclosed spaces.
Impact on beneficial insects – strong aromatic compounds can repel pollinators and predatory insects, potentially disrupting ecological balance.
Maintenance demands – herbs must be trimmed regularly to sustain volatile emission; neglect leads to reduced potency and overgrowth.
Limited scope – most herbs repel only small rodent populations; large infestations typically require supplemental control methods.

Additionally, some plants release compounds that can affect pet health. For example, high concentrations of essential oils from certain herbs may be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

Finally, reliance on herbal deterrents alone may give a false sense of security, delaying the implementation of more comprehensive pest‑management strategies. Combining botanical repellents with proper sanitation, sealing entry points, and, when necessary, professional intervention yields more reliable results.

When to Seek Professional Help

Herbal deterrents can reduce mouse activity, yet they do not guarantee complete control. When simple measures fail, professional assistance becomes necessary.

Infestation spreads beyond a single room or appears in multiple structures.
Evidence includes gnaw marks on wiring, insulation, or structural components.
Traps and repellents capture few individuals after several weeks of consistent use.
Signs of disease, such as droppings in food preparation areas, emerge.
Property damage escalates, threatening electrical safety or compromising building integrity.

Professional pest managers provide thorough inspection, identify entry points, and apply certified treatments that combine exclusion techniques with targeted baits. They also advise on long‑term prevention, ensuring that herb‑based methods complement a comprehensive control plan.

Maintaining a Rodent-Free Environment

Plants that discourage rodents provide a natural layer of protection, but a rodent‑free setting also requires disciplined upkeep. Regularly remove food residues, store pantry items in sealed containers, and eliminate clutter where mice can hide. Inspect foundations, doors, and windows for gaps; seal openings with steel wool or caulk to block entry points.

Effective herbs include:

Peppermint – strong scent repels mice; apply dried leaves or essential oil on cotton balls placed near entryways.
Lavender – volatile oils deter rodents; scatter dried sprigs in cupboards or use sachets.
Rosemary – aromatic foliage discourages gnawing; plant in pots near exterior walls or spread crushed leaves indoors.
Sage – bitter taste and scent repel; place fresh or dried bundles in storage areas.
Catnip – contains nepetalactone, a potent mouse deterrent; distribute dried material around problem zones.

Combine botanical deterrents with routine sanitation, structural sealing, and prompt removal of nesting materials to sustain an environment that remains unattractive to rodents.