How should a house be cleaned after a mouse infestation?

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How should a house be cleaned after a mouse infestation? - briefly
Eliminate all droppings, urine, and infested debris, then thoroughly disinfect every surface with a rodent‑approved sanitizer and seal any gaps that could allow re‑entry. Dispose of waste in sealed bags and let the area dry completely before restoring normal use.

How should a house be cleaned after a mouse infestation? - in detail
After a rodent intrusion, thorough decontamination is essential to eliminate health hazards and prevent recurrence. Follow a systematic approach that addresses sanitation, disinfection, and structural repairs.
Begin with personal protection. Wear disposable gloves, a N‑95 respirator, and eye protection. Seal off the affected area with plastic sheeting to contain dust and debris.

Remove visible waste

Collect dead rodents, gnawed materials, and nest fragments in heavy‑duty garbage bags.
Dispose of bags in an outdoor dumpster, sealing them tightly.

Clear droppings and urine

Sweep loose feces with a disposable broom; avoid sweeping into the air.
Apply a commercial rodent‑specific disinfectant or a 1 % bleach solution (mix 1 part bleach with 9 parts water).
Let the solution sit for at least 10 minutes, then mop or wipe the surface.
For porous items (carpets, upholstery), consider professional steam cleaning or disposal if heavily contaminated.

Sanitize hard surfaces

Scrub countertops, cabinets, appliances, and flooring with the same bleach solution or an EPA‑registered sanitizer.
Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Treat insulation and wall cavities

Cut open compromised insulation, place it in sealed bags, and discard.
Spray the interior of walls with an approved disinfectant; allow adequate drying time before resealing.

Launder fabrics

Wash curtains, bedding, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) with detergent.
Dry on high heat or line‑dry in sunlight.

Seal entry points

Inspect the exterior for gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and foundations.
Fill openings with steel wool, caulk, or cement‑based sealant.
Install door sweeps and mesh screens where needed.

Ventilate

Open windows and run exhaust fans for several hours to remove lingering odors and airborne particles.

Final inspection

Verify that all surfaces are dry, odor‑free, and free of residual droppings.
Confirm that entry points are sealed and that no food sources remain accessible.

By adhering to these steps, the residence will be restored to a sanitary condition, reducing the risk of disease transmission and discouraging future infestations.