How can you get rid of mouse odor in an apartment? - briefly
Remove any dead rodents and droppings, then scrub the affected surfaces with a mixture of warm water and an enzymatic cleaner or a 1:10 bleach solution; follow with thorough rinsing. Finish by ventilating the space and placing odor‑absorbing materials such as activated charcoal or baking soda to neutralize lingering smells.
How can you get rid of mouse odor in an apartment? - in detail
Eliminate the source of the smell before treating the air. Locate any dead rodents, nests, or droppings; remove them with disposable gloves, a sealed bag, and a disinfectant solution (e.g., 1 % bleach). Clean the area thoroughly, scrubbing surfaces, walls, and flooring to remove lingering residue.
Sanitize the entire apartment. Prepare a mixture of warm water and enzymatic cleaner; apply it to carpets, upholstery, and hard surfaces. Enzymatic products break down urine proteins that cause the odor. Rinse and dry each treated area completely.
Ventilate the space. Open windows and use fans to draw fresh air through the rooms for at least 30 minutes. If outdoor air is limited, run an air purifier equipped with a HEPA filter and an activated‑carbon cartridge to capture airborne particles and absorb odors.
Apply neutralizing agents. Options include:
- Baking soda: sprinkle on carpets and upholstery, leave for several hours, then vacuum.
- White vinegar: dilute 1:1 with water, spray onto hard surfaces, allow to dry.
- Commercial odor absorbers: place activated‑carbon bags or ozone‑generating devices in affected rooms, following manufacturer guidelines.
Maintain a pest‑free environment to prevent recurrence. Seal entry points with steel wool and caulk, store food in airtight containers, and keep trash bins closed. Regularly inspect and clean behind appliances, under sinks, and in storage closets where rodents may hide.
Finally, monitor progress. If the odor persists after these steps, consider professional remediation, which may involve specialized cleaning agents, wall removal, or HVAC system treatment.