How to get mice out of the house? - briefly
Seal all cracks, gaps, and openings around foundations, pipes, and vents, then place snap traps or approved bait stations along walls and known pathways, checking and resetting them daily until activity stops.
How to get mice out of the house? - in detail
Mice infestations require a systematic approach that combines exclusion, sanitation, and active removal.
First, identify entry points. Inspect walls, foundations, windows, doors, and utility penetrations. Seal gaps larger than ¼ inch with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based caulk; these materials resist gnawing. Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens.
Second, eliminate food sources. Store grains, cereals, and pet food in airtight containers. Remove crumbs, spills, and pet waste promptly. Keep garbage in sealed bins and relocate compost away from the building.
Third, employ trapping devices. Choose from snap traps, electronic traps, or multi‑catch live traps. Position traps along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected activity zones. Bait with high‑fat items such as peanut butter, bacon, or dried fruit. Check traps daily, dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations, and reset traps until no new signs appear.
Fourth, consider rodenticides only as a last resort. Use certified products, follow label instructions, and place them in tamper‑resistant stations to prevent accidental exposure to children or non‑target animals.
Fifth, monitor for ongoing activity. Place non‑lethal monitoring stations (e.g., sticky pads) in concealed locations to detect hidden pathways. Record sightings, droppings, or gnaw marks to gauge progress.
Finally, maintain preventive measures. Conduct quarterly inspections of the building envelope, keep interior clutter minimal, and reinforce sanitation practices. Consistent application of these steps will eradicate existing mice and reduce the likelihood of future invasions.