How can I catch mice in the house? - briefly
Place snap traps or baited live traps along walls and near food sources, and seal any gaps or holes that provide access. Regularly check traps and maintain a clean environment to discourage further activity.
How can I catch mice in the house? - in detail
Effective rodent capture inside a dwelling requires a systematic approach that combines sanitation, exclusion, and trapping.
Begin by eliminating food sources. Store pantry items in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs and spills, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Reduce water availability by fixing leaky pipes and wiping damp surfaces.
Identify entry points. Inspect walls, floors, and foundations for gaps larger than a quarter inch. Seal cracks with steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam, and install door sweeps on exterior doors.
Select appropriate traps. Options include:
- Snap traps: steel plates with spring mechanisms; position perpendicular to walls, with trigger end facing the wall.
- Electronic traps: battery‑powered devices delivering a lethal shock; require placement near active runways.
- Live‑catch traps: cage‑style enclosures; suitable for humane removal, but demand frequent checking and release far from the property.
- Glue boards: adhesive surfaces; effective for monitoring but not recommended for humane control.
Choose bait that appeals to mice. Common choices are peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit. Apply a pea‑sized amount directly to the trigger mechanism to prevent spillage.
Place traps strategically. Position each trap 1–2 feet from walls, at right angles to the suspected travel route. Deploy multiple devices in high‑traffic zones such as kitchens, basements, and attics. Maintain a minimum spacing of 12 inches between traps to avoid competition.
Monitor and maintain. Check traps daily; dispose of captured rodents promptly using gloves and sealed bags. Reset or replace traps as needed. Record locations of successful captures to refine placement.
If infestation persists after several weeks of intensive trapping, consider professional pest‑control services. They can perform comprehensive inspections, apply rodenticides in compliance with safety regulations, and provide ongoing management plans.
Sustained success depends on continuous sanitation, regular inspection of potential entryways, and consistent trap maintenance.