How to get rid of a mouse scratching under the floor? - briefly
Identify and seal every opening under the floorboards with steel wool and expanding foam, then position snap or live traps along known pathways and remove all food and water sources. Use a continuous ultrasonic repellent to discourage further activity.
How to get rid of a mouse scratching under the floor? - in detail
Mice create audible scratching when they move through voids beneath flooring, indicating a breach in the building envelope. The first step is to locate the entry point. Inspect the perimeter, foundation cracks, gaps around pipes, vents, and utility lines. Use a flashlight to trace the mouse’s path and look for fresh gnaw marks or droppings.
Once the opening is identified, seal it with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based filler. These materials resist chewing and prevent re‑entry. Apply caulk or expanding foam to minor gaps, but ensure the filler is not easily shredded.
After exclusion, set up control devices inside the affected area. Options include:
- Snap traps positioned along walls and near the suspected route; bait with peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Live‑catch traps for humane removal; release captured rodents at least 1 mile from the residence.
- Electronic traps that deliver a lethal shock; place them in concealed corners to avoid interference.
Deploy bait stations only if local regulations permit, and keep them out of reach of children and pets. Rotate trap placement every few days to cover the entire floor cavity.
Clean the space thoroughly. Remove droppings with a disinfectant solution (e.g., diluted bleach 1:10) and wear gloves and a mask to avoid inhaling pathogens. Vacuum debris, then allow the area to dry completely.
Implement ongoing deterrence:
- Place peppermint oil‑infused cotton balls or commercial rodent repellents near potential entry zones.
- Maintain a dry environment; fix leaks and improve ventilation to reduce humidity that attracts rodents.
- Store food in sealed containers and keep garbage bins closed.
Monitor the situation for at least two weeks. Check traps daily, inspect for new gnaw marks, and re‑seal any emergent cracks. If activity persists, consider consulting a licensed pest‑control professional for advanced measures such as bait stations with anticoagulant rodenticides, applied under strict safety protocols.