Mice are scraping under the baseboards—what to do? - briefly
Seal all gaps along the baseboard with steel wool and caulk, eliminate food sources, and deploy snap traps or ultrasonic devices in the affected zones. Monitor activity for several days and replace traps or reinforce barriers as necessary.
Mice are scraping under the baseboards—what to do? - in detail
Rodents creating noise beneath the baseboard indicate the presence of an active infestation. Signs include scratching sounds, droppings, gnaw marks, and occasional sightings near walls.
To confirm the problem, follow these steps:
- Examine the perimeter for small holes, gaps around pipes, and cracks in the foundation.
- Place non‑toxic tracking powder or flour in suspected pathways; footprints will appear after a night’s activity.
- Install motion‑activated cameras aimed at baseboard sections to capture movement without disturbance.
Once entry points are identified, seal them using steel‑wool, copper mesh, or caulking designed for pest control. Expandable foam should be avoided because rodents can chew through it. Repair damaged siding and replace weather‑stripping around doors and windows.
For removal, employ a combination of traps:
- Snap traps positioned perpendicular to the wall, baited with peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Live‑catch traps placed near active routes, checked frequently to prevent suffering.
- Electronic traps for rapid, humane dispatch.
All traps should be spaced no more than 10 feet apart along the affected wall line. Rotate bait types weekly to prevent bait aversion.
After capture, eliminate food sources: store grain, cereals, and pet food in airtight containers; clean crumbs and spills immediately. Reduce clutter that offers shelter, and maintain a regular vacuuming schedule to remove droppings and urine residues. Disinfect the area with a solution containing at least 0.5 % bleach, then allow surfaces to dry completely.
Finally, implement ongoing monitoring. Place passive sticky boards or low‑profile motion sensors near baseboards to detect any renewed activity. Periodic inspection of the sealed gaps ensures long‑term protection against re‑infestation.