How to make a rat trap yourself? - briefly
Cut a 2‑foot PVC pipe in half, affix a spring‑loaded latch at one end, insert bait inside, and set the trap where rodent signs appear; the latch snaps shut when the rat enters, securing it safely.
How to make a rat trap yourself? - in detail
Creating an effective homemade rat trap requires careful selection of materials, precise construction, and strategic placement. The following guide outlines each component of the process.
Materials
- Sturdy wooden board (approximately 12 × 6 in.) or thick cardboard
- Thin metal wire or strong string
- Small wooden dowel or sturdy stick (6 in. long) for the trigger arm
- Two nails or screws
- Bait (peanut butter, dried fruit, or meat scraps)
- Protective gloves
Construction steps
- Attach a nail near one edge of the board, leaving enough space to slide the trigger arm beneath it.
- Secure the second nail on the opposite side, positioned to hold the bait platform when released.
- Bend the wire into a U‑shape; one end will serve as the spring, the other as the latch.
- Fasten the trigger arm to the spring end with a tight knot, ensuring it pivots freely.
- Place a small platform (a piece of cardboard) on the second nail; this will hold the bait.
- Position the bait on the platform, then tension the spring by pulling the trigger arm upward until it snaps against the first nail.
- Release the tension; the arm should stay in the set position, ready to snap shut when the rat steps on the platform.
Placement guidelines
- Locate the trap along walls, near gnaw marks, or close to food sources.
- Position the bait platform directly above a concealed entry point to maximize contact.
- Ensure the trap is stable on a flat surface; uneven ground may cause premature failure.
Operation and safety
- Wear gloves when handling the trap to avoid leaving human scent.
- Check the trap every 12 hours; remove captured rodents promptly to prevent decomposition.
- Dispose of the animal in accordance with local regulations, using a sealed container.
- Reset the trap by re‑tensioning the spring and replenishing bait.
Maintenance
- Inspect the wire for signs of corrosion; replace if weakened.
- Tighten any loose nails or screws before each use.
- Clean the board and platform with mild detergent to remove residue that could deter future catches.
By following these precise steps, a reliable and humane rat-catching device can be assembled without commercial products, providing an economical solution for pest control.