How to get rid of mice at home for free? - briefly
Seal cracks and gaps, use DIY snap traps or bucket traps baited with peanut butter, and store all food in airtight containers while maintaining a clean, clutter‑free environment.
How to get rid of mice at home for free? - in detail
Eliminate rodents from your residence without spending money by following a systematic approach.
First, block all possible entry points. Inspect walls, floors, and ceilings for gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Use steel wool, caulk, or tightly fitted cloth strips to seal cracks around pipes, vents, and door frames. Replace worn weather‑stripping on exterior doors and windows.
Second, reduce food sources. Store pantry items in airtight containers. Clean crumbs and spills immediately. Keep pet food in sealed bins and avoid leaving dishes out overnight. Dispose of garbage in containers with tight lids and remove trash regularly.
Third, set up no‑cost traps. Create simple snap traps from old wooden boards, nails, and a spring mechanism, or fashion bucket traps using a tall container, a ramp, and a bait station. Bait with peanut butter, cheese, or dried fruit. Position traps along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected nesting sites. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents promptly.
Fourth, employ natural repellents. Sprinkle ground cayenne pepper, mint leaves, or dried lavender around entry points and along baseboards. These substances deter mice through strong odors. Replace the material weekly to maintain effectiveness.
Fifth, encourage predatory activity. If permissible, install a small indoor enclosure for a cat or allow a resident cat to patrol the area. Cats naturally hunt rodents and can reduce population without additional expense.
Sixth, maintain a clean environment. Vacuum regularly to remove droppings and nesting material. Repair water leaks to eliminate moisture sources that attract rodents. Keep storage areas well‑ventilated and organized to limit hiding places.
Finally, monitor progress. Keep a log of trap locations, capture dates, and any new sightings. Adjust sealing and baiting strategies based on observed activity. Persistent application of these measures will eradicate the infestation without financial outlay.