How to drive rats out of a house using folk methods? - briefly
Apply strong‑smelling substances such as peppermint oil, garlic, or crushed mint leaves around entry points and nesting areas to deter rodents. Complement the repellents with simple homemade traps—e.g., a bucket with a slanted plank and peanut‑butter bait—to capture any remaining individuals.
How to drive rats out of a house using folk methods? - in detail
Traditional techniques for eliminating rats from a residence rely on deterrence, habitat modification, and natural repellents.
Identify entry points by inspecting walls, foundations, vents, and utility openings. Seal cracks with steel wool, cement, or metal mesh; steel wool alone compresses under pressure and rodents cannot gnaw through it. Install door sweeps and weather stripping to block gaps beneath exterior doors.
Remove attractants that sustain a population. Store food in airtight containers, clean spills promptly, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Eliminate standing water sources by fixing leaks and drying damp areas, as moisture draws rodents.
Employ natural repellents that exploit rats’ aversion to strong odors. Prepare a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar; spray along baseboards, behind appliances, and near suspected pathways. Use peppermint oil diluted (five drops per ounce of water) in a spray bottle; apply to the same locations twice daily. Place crushed garlic cloves or onion skins in corners; replace weekly to maintain potency.
Set up homemade traps that avoid lethal chemicals. Construct a wooden box trap with a hinged lid, baited with peanut butter or dried fruit. Position the trap along a wall, as rats travel close to surfaces. Check traps each morning and release captured animals at least one mile from the property, following local wildlife regulations.
Maintain a clean, clutter‑free environment to deter re‑infestation. Store firewood away from the house, keep storage areas organized, and prune vegetation that contacts the building. Regularly inspect and reseal any new openings that appear after renovations or seasonal weather changes.
By combining structural exclusion, removal of food and water sources, application of aromatic deterrents, and humane trapping, a household can effectively discourage rats without resorting to chemical poisons or professional extermination services.