How can I get rid of mice between walls? - briefly
Seal all cracks and gaps leading to the wall cavity, then place snap traps or bait stations inside the void and check them regularly until no activity is observed. Follow up with a thorough cleaning and consider professional exclusion if infestations persist.
How can I get rid of mice between walls? - in detail
Eliminate rodents hidden within wall cavities by following a systematic approach.
First, locate activity. Listen for scratching, squeaking, or rustling sounds, especially at night. Examine walls for droppings, gnaw marks, or oily streaks. Use a flashlight to inspect any accessible voids, such as attic crawl spaces or basements, and note the exact points where rodents enter.
Second, block all possible entry routes. Seal cracks, gaps around pipes, vents, and cable penetrations with steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding foam reinforced with metal. Install weather‑stripping on doors and windows. Repair damaged siding, foundation cracks, and roof flashing to prevent new access.
Third, deploy control devices directly in the identified pathways. Choose snap traps or electronic traps for immediate kill; place them perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end facing the mouse’s travel direction. Bait with high‑protein items such as peanut butter or dried fruit. For long‑term reduction, consider live‑catch traps if relocation is permitted, but release animals at least 5 mi from the property to avoid re‑entry.
Fourth, integrate bait stations safely. Use tamper‑proof containers filled with anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticide, positioned behind baseboards or inside wall voids where children and pets cannot reach. Follow label instructions regarding dosage and placement density (generally 1–2 stations per 100 sq ft of infested area).
Fifth, remove attractants. Store food in sealed containers, clean crumbs from floors, and empty trash regularly. Reduce moisture by fixing leaky pipes, installing dehumidifiers, and ensuring proper ventilation. Declutter storage areas to eliminate hiding places.
Sixth, monitor progress. Check traps and bait stations daily for captures. Re‑inspect walls weekly for new signs of activity. Replace or relocate devices as needed until no evidence of rodents remains for at least two weeks.
Finally, consider professional pest‑control services if infestation persists, if structural damage is extensive, or if chemical applications are required beyond DIY limits. Experts can perform cavity fumigation, install ultrasonic deterrents, or provide detailed building‑wide sealing solutions.