How to get rid of mice if they have infested? - briefly
Seal entry points, remove food and water sources, and place snap traps or bait stations along walls and known travel routes. Continue monitoring and replace devices until no activity is observed, then maintain strict sanitation to prevent reinfestation.
How to get rid of mice if they have infested? - in detail
A mouse infestation demands immediate, systematic action. Begin with a thorough inspection to locate nests, droppings, and gnaw marks. Identify all possible entry points—cracks, gaps around pipes, vent openings, and door frames. Seal each opening with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing; rodents can chew through softer materials.
Next, reduce food sources. Store grains, cereals, and pet food in airtight containers. Keep countertops, floors, and waste bins clean. Remove clutter that provides shelter, such as cardboard boxes and piles of fabric.
Deploy control devices strategically:
- Snap traps: place perpendicular to walls, baited with peanut butter or chocolate, at least 1 m apart. Check daily and dispose of captured mice promptly.
- Live‑catch traps: set in high‑traffic areas, release captured animals at least 2 km from the property to prevent return.
- Electronic traps: deliver a rapid, lethal shock; suitable for indoor use where poison is undesirable.
- Bait stations: contain anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides, sealed to protect children and pets. Follow label instructions and monitor for non‑target exposure.
For severe infestations, combine traps with bait stations, rotating placement every 3–4 days to prevent bait shyness. Dispose of dead rodents in sealed bags, then disinfect surfaces with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water).
If chemical controls are insufficient or if the infestation persists despite these measures, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. They can conduct a comprehensive assessment, apply advanced baits, and provide ongoing monitoring.
Maintain vigilance after eradication. Conduct quarterly inspections, repair any new structural gaps, and keep food storage secure. Consistent sanitation and exclusion practices prevent re‑infestation.