How should a mouse trap be correctly set? - briefly
Place the bait at the trigger end, lock the spring or snap arm so the latch holds the bar under tension, and position the trap on a flat surface where mice travel. Verify the mechanism is secure, then dispose of any catch safely.
How should a mouse trap be correctly set? - in detail
Begin by selecting a trap appropriate for the target environment. Snap‑type devices provide rapid fatality, while live‑capture cages allow relocation. Ensure the mechanism is in good condition; inspect springs, triggers, and hinges for wear or damage before use.
Prepare the bait. Use a small amount of high‑attractant food such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or cheese. Apply a pea‑sized dollop to the designated bait holder, avoiding excess that could allow the rodent to access the food without engaging the trigger.
Activate the trap according to its design:
- Snap trap – Pull the spring arm back until it clicks into the locked position. Attach the bait platform, then release the arm just enough to allow the trigger to move freely.
- Live‑capture cage – Open the door latch, place the bait at the far end, then close the latch so the door remains shut until the mouse pushes the trigger plate.
Position the device along established rodent pathways. Ideal locations include walls, behind appliances, and near entry points. Place the trap with the trigger facing the wall, allowing the mouse to approach head‑first. Keep the trap at least six inches from any obstruction that could impede the trigger’s movement.
After placement, monitor the trap at regular intervals, preferably every 12‑24 hours. When capture occurs, handle the trap with gloves to prevent disease transmission. For snap traps, dispose of the carcass in a sealed bag and discard according to local regulations. For live‑capture cages, release the animal at least one mile from the property, preferably in a wooded area, and clean the cage with a mild disinfectant before reuse.
Maintain effectiveness by rotating bait types weekly, checking for trap fatigue, and relocating devices if no activity is observed after several days. Regularly seal gaps and entry points to reduce future infestations.