How can you permanently get rid of mice in an apartment using folk methods? - briefly
«Peppermint oil, dried cloves, or a vinegar‑water spray applied at suspected entry points repels mice, while sealing cracks with steel wool and caulk, installing snap or humane traps, and storing food in airtight containers prevents re‑infestation».
How can you permanently get rid of mice in an apartment using folk methods? - in detail
To eliminate rodents permanently in a dwelling, combine structural exclusion with traditional repellents and traps.
Sealing openings is the first priority. Inspect walls, floors, windows, doors, and utility penetrations. Apply steel‑wool or copper mesh followed by caulk or expanding foam to block gaps smaller than ¼ inch. Replace worn weather‑stripping on doors and windows. Install door sweeps to prevent entry from the hallway.
Maintain a clean environment that deprives mice of food and shelter. Store dry goods in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs, and eliminate standing water. Remove clutter, especially cardboard boxes and fabric piles, which serve as nesting material.
Traditional repellents can deter rodents without chemicals. Effective options include:
- «peppermint oil»: soak cotton balls and place them in corners, behind appliances, and near suspected entry points; refresh every three days.
- «cloves» or «clove oil»: scatter whole cloves in cabinets or apply diluted oil to baseboards.
- «dried lavender» or «lavender sachets»: position in drawers and closets; scent repels rodents.
- «cat litter» from a household cat: spread thinly along walls; the predator scent discourages intrusion.
- «used cat hair» or «fur»: place in hidden areas; natural predator odor acts as a deterrent.
Homemade traps provide a non‑lethal method to capture and remove individuals. A common bucket trap works as follows:
- Secure a tall bucket on the floor.
- Insert a wooden plank or a piece of PVC pipe as a ramp leading to the bucket’s rim.
- Anchor a small piece of peanut butter or a bit of cheese at the far end of the ramp as bait.
- When a mouse climbs to reach the bait, its weight tips the ramp, causing it to fall into the bucket.
- Release captured mice far from the residence, preferably in a wooded area.
For persistent infestations, combine traps with continuous repellent use. Rotate scents weekly to prevent habituation. Monitor trap catches and adjust bait placement to target active routes.
Finally, conduct periodic inspections. Re‑seal any newly discovered openings, replace depleted repellent sources, and reset traps as needed. Consistent application of these folk techniques, together with rigorous exclusion, creates an environment where mice cannot establish a foothold.