How to drive rats and mice out of a house? - briefly
Seal all entry points, eliminate food and water sources, and deploy snap traps or bait stations to remove the rodents. Conduct periodic inspections and maintain strict sanitation to prevent recurrence.
How to drive rats and mice out of a house? - in detail
Removing rodents from a residence requires a systematic approach that combines prevention, detection, and elimination. Begin with a thorough inspection of all entry points. Seal cracks in foundations, gaps around windows, and openings around utility lines with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing. Install door sweeps on exterior doors to block access.
Next, eliminate sources of food and water. Store dry goods in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills promptly, and fix leaky faucets. Remove clutter that can serve as nesting material; keep storage areas organized and elevate items off the floor.
Deploy trapping devices strategically. Place snap traps or electronic kill traps along walls, behind appliances, and in dark corners where rodent activity is observed. Bait traps with peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent attractants. Check traps daily, dispose of captured animals according to local regulations, and reset traps until sightings cease.
Consider using bait stations with anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides, but only where children, pets, and non‑target wildlife cannot access them. Follow label instructions precisely, and monitor stations for consumption.
Maintain a regular sanitation schedule. Sweep floors, vacuum upholstery, and wash dishes immediately after use. Dispose of garbage in sealed containers and remove it from the property weekly.
If infestation persists after these measures, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. They can assess hidden infestations, apply advanced baiting systems, and provide ongoing monitoring to ensure long‑term exclusion.