How can I get rid of many mice in the house? - briefly
Seal all possible entry points, then deploy a combination of snap traps, live‑catch traps, or bait stations while keeping food sources and clutter removed; repeat inspections regularly to ensure no new infestations develop.
How can I get rid of many mice in the house? - in detail
Eliminate a substantial mouse infestation by combining preventive measures, trapping, and exclusion techniques.
Start with sanitation. Store food in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills immediately, and dispose of garbage in sealed bins. Eliminate water sources by fixing leaks and drying damp areas, since moisture attracts rodents.
Seal entry points. Inspect the building’s exterior for gaps larger than ¼ inch around doors, windows, utility penetrations, and foundation cracks. Apply steel wool or copper mesh followed by caulk, expanding foam, or metal flashing to block access. Install door sweeps and repair damaged weatherstripping.
Deploy traps strategically. Place snap traps or electronic traps perpendicular to walls, with the trigger end facing the wall. Position devices every 2–3 feet along mouse pathways, especially near suspected activity zones such as kitchen cabinets, pantry shelves, and behind appliances. Use bait that mice prefer—peanut butter, dried fruit, or small pieces of cheese—secured to the trigger mechanism. Check traps daily, dispose of captured rodents in sealed bags, and reset with fresh bait.
Consider bait stations only when professional supervision is available, as anticoagulant rodenticides pose health risks to humans, pets, and non‑target wildlife. If chosen, place stations in tamper‑resistant containers, label them clearly, and follow local regulations.
Maintain a regular monitoring schedule. After initial control, continue inspecting for new signs of activity—droppings, gnaw marks, or nesting material. Replace or relocate traps as needed, and re‑seal any newly discovered openings.
Finally, reinforce long‑term protection. Keep vegetation trimmed at least 12 inches from the house, store firewood off the ground, and avoid clutter in basements and attics that can serve as shelter. Consistent adherence to these steps reduces the likelihood of re‑infestation and ensures a rodent‑free environment.