How can you get rid of mice at home? - briefly
Seal all gaps and cracks, install snap traps or secure bait stations, and keep food storage and waste areas clean to deter rodents. Remove any captured mice promptly and regularly inspect for new activity.
How can you get rid of mice at home? - in detail
Eliminating rodents from a dwelling requires a systematic approach that combines exclusion, sanitation, and active removal.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Identify cracks, gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and windows. Apply steel wool, copper mesh, or expandable foam to seal openings larger than a quarter‑inch. Check the foundation, attic, and crawl spaces for hidden entry points and repair them promptly.
Maintain a clean environment that deprives mice of food and shelter. Store all food in airtight containers, clean spills immediately, and remove pet food after each meal. Dispose of garbage in sealed bins and keep compost piles away from the house. Reduce clutter in basements, garages, and storage areas to eliminate nesting sites.
Deploy traps strategically. Place devices along walls, behind appliances, and in areas with visible droppings. Recommended trap types include:
- Snap traps with a strong spring mechanism for rapid kill.
- Electronic traps that deliver a lethal voltage pulse.
- Live‑catch traps for humane capture, to be released far from the residence.
- Glue boards for monitoring, not primary control, due to animal welfare concerns.
Bait selection should complement trap placement. Use high‑protein or high‑fat attractants such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent gel. Position baited traps perpendicular to travel paths, with the trigger end facing the wall. Rotate bait types periodically to prevent habituation.
If infestations persist despite preventive measures, consider professional pest‑control services. Experts can apply rodenticides in sealed bait stations, conduct comprehensive structural assessments, and provide long‑term monitoring plans while adhering to safety regulations.
Regularly review and reinforce exclusion methods, maintain cleanliness, and replace traps as needed to ensure lasting rodent‑free conditions.