How can I get rid of rats in a private house using folk methods? - briefly
Use natural repellents like peppermint oil on cotton balls placed at entry points and seal gaps with steel wool and caulk. Complement this with peanut‑butter‑baited snap traps and keep the house free of food debris to prevent infestations.
How can I get rid of rats in a private house using folk methods? - in detail
Rats can be driven out of a home by applying time‑tested, non‑chemical measures that exploit their instincts and sensitivities.
First, deny access. Inspect walls, foundation, roof eaves, and utility penetrations. Seal gaps larger than a quarter‑inch with steel wool, cement, or metal mesh. Install door sweeps and repair cracked plaster or flooring. Removing food sources is essential: store grain, pet food, and garbage in sealed containers; clean crumbs and spills promptly; keep compost bins away from the building.
Second, use scent deterrents that rats find offensive. Prepare a solution of peppermint oil (10 ml per litre of water) and spray it around entry points, behind appliances, and in attic spaces. Repeat weekly, especially after rain. An alternative blend of crushed dried mint leaves and a few drops of clove oil can be placed in cotton sachets near nesting sites.
Third, employ physical traps that require no poison. Set snap traps on established runways, aligning the trigger side toward the wall. Bait with a small piece of peanut butter, dried fruit, or a sliver of bacon. Position traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end against the baseboard. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents promptly.
Fourth, create an environment that discourages nesting. Place shredded newspaper or steel wool in potential burrow openings; rats will avoid these materials because they cannot gnaw through them. Use a mixture of equal parts cayenne pepper and powdered garlic, sprinkled lightly in corners and behind cabinets; the strong odor deters entry.
Fifth, introduce natural predators where feasible. A well‑cared‑for cat can reduce rodent activity significantly. Ensure the cat has access to likely rat pathways and is encouraged to hunt by providing play opportunities.
Sixth, maintain ongoing vigilance. Conduct monthly inspections of sealed points, replace worn bait, and refresh scent deterrents. Rotate trap locations to prevent rats from learning trap patterns.
By combining exclusion, sensory repulsion, humane capture, and predatory presence, a homeowner can eliminate a rat infestation without resorting to commercial chemicals.