How can you drive mice out of a private house? - briefly
Seal all openings, eliminate accessible food and water, install snap traps or bait stations, and apply deterrents like peppermint oil or ultrasonic emitters.
How can you drive mice out of a private house? - in detail
Eliminating a mouse infestation requires a systematic approach that addresses entry points, attractants, and population control.
First, conduct a thorough inspection to locate gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Seal openings with steel wool, copper mesh, or caulking; reinforce doors and windows with weatherstripping. Repair cracks in walls, foundation, and around utility penetrations. Install door sweeps on exterior doors.
Second, remove food sources that sustain the rodents. Store pantry items in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills promptly, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Eliminate standing water and fix leaking pipes, as moisture attracts mice.
Third, deploy trapping methods. Use snap traps positioned along walls, behind appliances, and in concealed pathways; place bait such as peanut butter or dried fruit. Check traps daily, dispose of captured rodents with gloves, and reset traps until activity ceases. For households preferring non‑lethal options, consider electronic traps that deliver an instantaneous kill, or humane catch‑and‑release traps, ensuring release occurs at least one mile from the residence.
Fourth, apply repellents if traps are insufficient. Apply peppermint oil or predator urine (e.g., from cats) on cotton balls placed near suspected routes; replace every few days. Use ultrasonic devices cautiously, as efficacy varies.
Finally, maintain a preventive regimen. Conduct quarterly inspections, re‑seal any new gaps, keep food storage secure, and monitor for signs of activity such as droppings or gnaw marks. If infestation persists despite these measures, consult a licensed pest‑control professional for targeted baiting and advanced exclusion techniques.