How to eliminate mice from the house? - briefly
Identify and seal all potential entry points—cracks, gaps around pipes, vents, and foundation openings. Deploy snap traps, electronic deterrents, or bait stations, and store food in sealed containers to eliminate the infestation and prevent recurrence.
How to eliminate mice from the house? - in detail
Eliminating a mouse infestation requires a systematic approach that combines exclusion, population reduction, and habitat modification.
First, identify and seal all possible entry points. Inspect the building’s exterior for gaps larger than ½ inch around foundations, utility penetrations, doors, and windows. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based sealant to block holes, because rodents can chew softer materials. Install door sweeps and repair cracked siding or damaged roofing.
Second, reduce the existing population with proven control devices. Place snap traps or electronic traps along walls, behind appliances, and near known activity zones. Position traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end facing the wall, to align with the mouse’s natural running path. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or small pieces of cheese; attach the bait securely to prevent removal. Check traps daily and dispose of captured mice in sealed containers.
Third, employ bait stations only when necessary and in compliance with local regulations. Use anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides housed in tamper‑proof compartments to protect children and non‑target animals. Rotate bait types periodically to avoid bait aversion. Monitor bait consumption and replace stations as needed.
Fourth, improve sanitation to make the environment unattractive. Store food in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills immediately, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Remove clutter such as boxes, piles of paper, and unused appliances that provide hiding places. Maintain a regular cleaning schedule for kitchens, pantries, and storage areas.
Fifth, consider professional pest‑management services if the infestation persists or spreads beyond a single unit. Experts can conduct thorough inspections, apply integrated pest‑management strategies, and provide ongoing monitoring.
Finally, establish a long‑term maintenance program. Conduct quarterly inspections of the building envelope, replace worn seals, and rotate traps to prevent re‑infestation. Document findings and actions to track effectiveness over time.