A mouse in the fridge — what to do? - briefly
Turn off the fridge, wear gloves, and use a humane trap or careful removal to capture the rodent, then clean the interior with a food‑safe sanitizer. Seal any gaps and set bait stations to deter future entry.
A mouse in the fridge — what to do? - in detail
A rodent discovered inside a refrigerator requires immediate, systematic action to protect food safety and prevent recurrence.
First, remove all perishable items. Place them in a separate insulated container or another refrigerator to keep them cold while you work. Discard any food that shows signs of contamination—chewed packaging, droppings, or unusual odor.
Next, isolate the animal. Turn off the fridge and open the door fully. Use a sturdy container (plastic tub with a lid) and a piece of cardboard or a rigid sheet to coax the mouse onto the surface. Gently guide it into the container, then seal it. If the creature cannot be captured safely, contact a professional pest‑control service for humane removal.
After the mouse is secured, clean the interior thoroughly. Remove all shelves, drawers, and removable components. Wash them with hot, soapy water, then rinse and dry. Sanitize the cavity with a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water, allowing it to sit for at least five minutes before wiping clean. Pay special attention to corners, seals, and the gasket, where droppings and urine may accumulate.
Inspect the refrigerator for entry points. Examine the door gasket, ventilation holes, and any gaps around wiring or plumbing. Seal openings with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing, as mice can squeeze through holes as small as a quarter of an inch.
Implement preventive measures. Store food in airtight containers made of glass or hard plastic. Keep the refrigerator organized to minimize clutter that could hide a mouse. Set up snap traps or live‑catch traps around the appliance, positioning them along walls and near known rodent pathways. Replace bait regularly with attractive food items such as peanut butter or dried fruit.
Finally, monitor the situation. Conduct weekly inspections for fresh droppings, gnaw marks, or new sightings. Maintain a clean environment, and schedule periodic professional inspections if the problem persists.
Following these steps eliminates the immediate threat, restores hygiene, and reduces the likelihood of future incursions.