How can I drive mice away from the house? - briefly
Seal all potential entryways with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh, eliminate accessible food by storing it in airtight containers, and deploy snap traps or bait stations along walls where droppings are observed. Regularly inspect and replace traps, and maintain a clean environment to prevent re‑infestation.
How can I drive mice away from the house? - in detail
Mice enter residential spaces seeking food, shelter, and warmth. Successful exclusion requires a combination of sanitation, structural sealing, and targeted deterrents.
Eliminate attractants. Store dry goods in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs and spills, and keep pet food sealed when not in use. Dispose of garbage regularly in tightly fitted bins.
Identify and seal entry points. Inspect foundations, walls, windows, doors, and utility openings. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or caulk to fill gaps larger than ¼ inch; apply expanding foam for irregular cracks. Install door sweeps and weather stripping to block gaps beneath exterior doors.
Deploy physical barriers. Place snap traps or electronic traps along walls, behind appliances, and near known activity zones. Position bait stations with appropriate rodenticide only where children and pets cannot reach them, following label instructions.
Employ repellents judiciously. Apply peppermint oil, mothballs, or ultrasonic devices in areas where traps are impractical, recognizing that efficacy varies and should complement, not replace, exclusion measures.
Maintain ongoing monitoring. Check traps daily, replace bait as needed, and re‑inspect sealed openings after seasonal weather changes. A systematic approach combining hygiene, sealing, and controlled trapping offers the most reliable reduction of mouse presence inside the home.