How to set up a mouse trap? - briefly
Place bait on the trigger, align the trap against a wall or known mouse pathway, and firmly secure the base so the mechanism snaps shut when the rodent reaches the lure.
How to set up a mouse trap? - in detail
Begin by selecting the appropriate trap type for the environment: snap‑type, live‑catch, or electronic. Snap traps provide rapid kill; live‑catch models allow relocation; electronic devices deliver an electric shock. Ensure the device is rated for the size of the target rodent.
Prepare the trap surface. Place the apparatus on a flat, stable area near walls, behind appliances, or along known runways. Keep the placement away from pet food, children's toys, and high‑traffic zones to avoid accidental activation.
Load the bait. Use a small amount of high‑fat attractant such as peanut butter, cheese, or dried fruit. Apply the bait to the trigger mechanism so that the mouse must apply pressure to reach it. Avoid excess bait that could be taken without triggering the device.
Set the trigger. For snap traps, pull back the spring arm until it clicks into the locked position. For live‑catch traps, lift the release latch and secure it with the provided clip. For electronic traps, insert batteries, then press the activation button until the indicator light confirms readiness.
Position the trap. Align the baited end toward the wall, as mice travel close to surfaces. Place several traps at 1‑ to 2‑foot intervals along the suspected path. Ensure each trap is oriented identically to maximize encounter probability.
Monitor and maintain. Check traps daily. Dispose of dead rodents according to local regulations, using gloves and sealed containers. For live‑catch units, release captured mice at least one mile from the residence, following humane guidelines. Reset traps after each capture or after a non‑capture check.
Clean the area after successful removal. Remove droppings, urine stains, and food residues with a disinfectant solution. Seal entry points—cracks, gaps, utility openings—to prevent re‑infestation. Regular inspection and trap rotation sustain long‑term control.