Mice have overrun the apartment—what should I do?

Mice have overrun the apartment—what should I do? - briefly

Seal all gaps, remove food sources, and deploy snap traps or bait stations; then contact a licensed pest‑control professional for a comprehensive treatment. Maintain strict sanitation and regular inspections to prevent recurrence.

Mice have overrun the apartment—what should I do? - in detail

A sudden increase of rodents inside a living space requires immediate, systematic action. Begin by confirming the extent of the problem: look for droppings, gnaw marks, nesting material, and audible activity, especially near walls, cabinets, and concealed areas.

1. Secure food sources

   • Store all edible items in airtight containers made of glass or heavy‑duty plastic.
   • Clean countertops, floors, and appliances thoroughly to remove crumbs and spills.
   • Dispose of garbage daily in bins with tight‑fitting lids.

2. Eliminate shelter

   • Declutter storage areas, remove piles of paper, fabric, or cardboard that could serve as nests.
   • Seal gaps larger than ¼ inch with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh; focus on entry points around pipes, vents, and door frames.
   • Repair any damaged screens or weather stripping.

3. Deploy control devices

   • Place snap traps or electronic traps along walls, behind appliances, and in known pathways.
   • Use bait that matches the rodents’ preferences, such as peanut butter, nuts, or dried fruit.
   • Position traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end facing the baseboard.
   • Check traps daily, dispose of captured specimens with gloves, and reset as needed.

4. Consider bait stations

   • If the infestation is extensive, professional‑grade anticoagulant baits may be appropriate.
   • Follow label instructions precisely; keep stations out of reach of children and pets.
   • Monitor bait consumption and replace stations regularly.

5. Maintain sanitation

   • Sweep and mop floors at least once a day during the infestation period.
   • Wash dishes immediately after use; avoid leaving dishes in the sink overnight.
   • Keep pet food in sealed containers and remove leftovers promptly.

6. Monitor progress

   • Continue to inspect for fresh droppings, gnaw marks, or new damage.
   • Record trap catches and locations to identify remaining hotspots.
   • Adjust trap placement and sealing efforts based on observed activity.

7. Seek professional assistance

   • If traps and sealing fail to reduce the population within a week, contact a licensed pest‑control operator.
   • Professionals can perform a thorough inspection, apply rodenticides safely, and provide a long‑term management plan.

By systematically removing food, blocking entry, employing effective trapping, and maintaining rigorous cleanliness, the rodent presence can be reduced quickly and prevented from recurring.