How can you definitely get rid of mice? - briefly
Seal all gaps and cracks, use snap traps or bait stations placed along walls, and keep food storage and waste areas clean to prevent re‑infestation.
How can you definitely get rid of mice? - in detail
Eliminating a mouse infestation requires a systematic approach that combines exclusion, attraction, and removal.
First, block every possible entry. Inspect the building’s exterior for gaps larger than ¼ inch and seal them with steel wool, copper mesh, or concrete. Repair damaged screens, vents, and utility openings. Install door sweeps and weather stripping to prevent entry beneath doors.
Second, eliminate food and shelter sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills immediately, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Remove clutter, especially cardboard and fabric piles, which provide nesting material.
Third, deploy trapping devices strategically. Place snap traps or electronic traps along walls, behind appliances, and near known activity zones. Use bait such as peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit. Set traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger side facing the wall, to align with the rodent’s natural running route. Check traps daily and dispose of captured mice promptly.
Fourth, consider bait stations for larger populations. Use anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides in tamper‑resistant containers, positioned out of reach of children and pets. Rotate active ingredients periodically to prevent resistance.
Fifth, monitor progress. Keep a log of trap captures and bait consumption. After several weeks of no activity, conduct a final inspection of potential entry points and repeat sealing measures if necessary.
Sixth, engage professional exterminators when infestations persist despite these measures, or when structural damage and health risks demand specialized intervention.
Consistent sanitation, thorough exclusion, and diligent use of traps or baits constitute a definitive solution to mouse problems.