How to get rid of rats using folk methods? - briefly
Apply strong-smelling natural repellents—peppermint oil, cloves, or crushed garlic—around entry points and food storage, and block burrows with steel wool while sealing cracks. Complement these measures with regular cleaning and waste removal to deny shelter and sustenance.
How to get rid of rats using folk methods? - in detail
Traditional techniques for eliminating rats rely on natural deterrents, simple traps, and environmental modifications that discourage infestation without chemicals.
A common deterrent is the use of strong aromatic substances. Plant-based oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and clove emit scents that rodents find unpleasant. Soak cotton balls in the oil, place them in known pathways, and replace them weekly to maintain potency.
Another effective method involves predators and their scent cues. Deploying dried cat or fox urine, or installing a small feral cat shelter, creates an environment that rats perceive as dangerous. Regularly refresh the scent material to prevent habituation.
Homemade snap traps fashioned from sturdy wood, a spring-loaded bar, and a bait chamber provide a humane killing mechanism. Bait the trap with high‑fat foods—peanut butter, bacon bits, or dried fruit—and position it perpendicular to walls, where rats travel. Check traps daily, remove captured rodents, and reset promptly.
Barrier construction reduces entry points. Seal cracks, holes, and gaps with steel wool, cement, or metal mesh; rodents can gnaw through softer materials. Install door sweeps and repair damaged vents to eliminate hidden routes.
Food source management deprives rats of sustenance. Store grains, cereals, and pet food in airtight containers. Promptly clean spills, sweep under appliances, and keep garbage bins tightly sealed. Regularly discard expired produce to eliminate attraction.
A traditional method called “bone bait” uses powdered animal bones mixed with flour and a small amount of sugar. The mixture is placed on a shallow dish near activity zones. Rats consume the bait, leading to digestive distress that reduces their numbers. Prepare fresh batches weekly to maintain effectiveness.
If infestation persists, combine several approaches: reinforce structural barriers, maintain aromatic deterrents, and operate multiple traps simultaneously. Consistent monitoring and prompt removal of attractants ensure long‑term control without reliance on chemical poisons.