How to fight mice in a Soviet-era apartment? - briefly
Seal cracks, gaps around pipes, windows, and baseboards; install snap traps or humane catch‑and‑release devices along walls and behind appliances; keep food stored in airtight containers and eliminate clutter to remove shelter. Use non‑poison bait stations for monitoring, check traps daily, and dispose of captured rodents promptly to prevent reinfestation.
How to fight mice in a Soviet-era apartment? - in detail
Dealing with a rodent infestation in a mid‑20th‑century block of flats requires a systematic approach that addresses entry points, food sources, and population control.
First, conduct a thorough inspection. Identify gaps around windows, doors, plumbing penetrations, and utility conduits. Seal openings with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based caulk, as rodents can gnaw through softer materials. Replace cracked plaster and repair damaged floorboards to eliminate hidden pathways.
Second, eliminate attractants. Store all food in airtight containers made of glass or heavy‑wall plastic. Remove crumbs and spills immediately; sweep kitchen floors daily and clean behind appliances. Dispose of garbage in bins with tight‑fitting lids and empty them regularly. Do not leave pet food out overnight.
Third, apply integrated pest‑management tactics:
- Mechanical traps: Use snap traps positioned along walls, behind cabinets, and near suspected runways. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or boiled potatoes for maximum appeal. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents promptly.
- Electronic devices: Place ultrasonic emitters in rooms where rodents are active. Although not a standalone solution, they can deter activity when combined with other measures.
- Chemical baits: Deploy anticoagulant rodenticides in tamper‑proof stations placed out of reach of children and pets. Follow label instructions precisely; consider professional application to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Biological control: In some cases, introducing predatory cats may reduce numbers, but this method is limited by building policies and hygiene concerns.
Fourth, monitor progress. Keep a log of trap captures, bait consumption, and any new signs of activity. Continue preventive maintenance for at least three months after the last sighting to prevent re‑infestation.
Finally, consider structural upgrades. Installing door sweeps, reinforcing window frames, and upgrading ventilation ducts with mesh screens provide long‑term protection. Engage building management to address communal areas, such as basements and stairwells, where rodents often congregate.
By combining exclusion, sanitation, targeted control methods, and ongoing monitoring, residents can eradicate the problem and maintain a rodent‑free living environment in a Soviet‑era apartment.