How can I drive mice out of the apartment? - briefly
Seal all possible entry points by caulking gaps, installing door sweeps, and repairing screens, then employ snap or live traps with suitable bait while storing food in airtight containers and removing clutter that provides shelter. Maintaining a clean environment and regularly inspecting for new openings prevents re‑infestation.
How can I drive mice out of the apartment? - in detail
Effective removal of mice from a residential unit requires a systematic approach that combines exclusion, sanitation, and active control.
First, identify and seal all entry points. Inspect walls, floors, and ceilings for gaps larger than ¼ inch. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or cement-based sealant to block holes around pipes, vents, and utility openings. Install door sweeps on exterior doors and repair damaged weather stripping.
Second, eliminate food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, keep countertops clear, and clean crumbs immediately. Dispose of garbage in sealed bins and remove pet food after each feeding. Regularly sweep and mop floors to remove residue that attracts rodents.
Third, reduce shelter opportunities. Declutter storage areas, stack boxes away from walls, and keep furniture away from baseboards. Remove stacked newspapers, cardboard, and fabric piles that provide nesting material.
Fourth, implement trapping methods. Deploy snap traps or electronic devices along walls, behind appliances, and near known activity zones. Bait traps with peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit. Place traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger side facing the wall, to increase contact probability. Check traps daily, dispose of captured mice according to local regulations, and reset traps until no new captures occur.
Fifth, consider professional bait stations if the infestation persists. Use anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides in tamper‑resistant stations, following label instructions and safety guidelines. Position stations in concealed locations away from children and pets.
Finally, monitor the situation for several weeks after the last capture. Continue exclusion measures, maintain cleanliness, and keep a few traps in place as a precaution. Persistent vigilance prevents re‑infestation and safeguards the living environment.