How can you use lye to control mice? - briefly
Sodium hydroxide, a caustic alkali, can be incorporated into bait to cause lethal internal burns in rodents that consume it. Deployment requires sealed traps and strict separation from children, pets, and food sources to prevent accidental poisoning.
How can you use lye to control mice? - in detail
Lye, a strong alkaline solution, can serve as an effective rodent deterrent when applied correctly. Its high pH causes severe irritation to the mucous membranes of mice, leading to rapid aversion and, in extreme exposure, fatality. Proper usage requires attention to safety, placement, and concentration.
A typical preparation involves dissolving sodium hydroxide pellets in water to achieve a 5–10 % solution. Higher concentrations increase toxicity but also elevate the risk of chemical burns to humans and non‑target animals. Wear protective gloves, goggles, and a lab coat during mixing; add the pellets slowly to avoid exothermic splashing.
Placement strategies:
• Soak cotton balls or small fabric pads in the lye solution and hide them in concealed entry points, such as gaps behind appliances, baseboard cracks, or burrow entrances.
• Apply a thin layer of the solution to the interior surface of metal or plastic traps; the caustic coating discourages escape and increases lethality.
• Create a barrier by painting a narrow strip of diluted lye along the perimeter of cabinets or pantry shelves, where mice commonly travel.
Maintenance considerations:
- Replace soaked materials every 2–3 days, as the solution degrades with exposure to air.
- Monitor for signs of corrosion on metal surfaces; lye can accelerate rust formation.
- Keep all treated items out of reach of children, pets, and food preparation areas to prevent accidental ingestion or contact.
Disposal guidelines:
- Neutralize residual solution with a mild acid, such as vinegar, before discarding.
- Rinse contaminated fabrics thoroughly and dispose of them in sealed waste bags.
By adhering to these protocols, lye can be leveraged as a potent, low‑cost method for reducing mouse populations while minimizing collateral hazards.