What should be done to keep mice out of the house? - briefly
Seal all gaps, cracks, and openings, store food in airtight containers, and maintain a clean environment. Deploy traps or bait stations and routinely inspect for signs of rodent activity.
What should be done to keep mice out of the house? - in detail
Rodents enter residential spaces seeking shelter and food, so eliminating access and attraction points is the most effective preventative measure.
Identify and seal all potential openings. Common entry sites include gaps around pipes, vents, utility lines, foundation cracks, door thresholds, and window frames. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or silicone‑based sealants for small gaps; install metal flashing or concrete patches for larger cracks. Install door sweeps and weatherstripping to block gaps under exterior doors.
Maintain a clean interior environment. Store dry goods in airtight containers made of glass, metal, or heavy‑duty plastic. Clean up spills immediately, sweep crumbs from floors, and regularly dispose of garbage in sealed bins. Avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
Reduce outdoor habitats that encourage nesting. Trim vegetation away from the building’s perimeter, keep firewood stacked off the ground, and remove debris, compost piles, and stacked materials that provide shelter. Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from the foundation to prevent moisture accumulation.
Employ mechanical controls where entry is already established. Snap traps, electronic kill traps, and live‑capture cages should be placed along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected pathways. Bait with peanut butter, oats, or commercially formulated rodent attractants. Check traps daily, dispose of captured animals responsibly, and reset traps as needed.
Apply non‑lethal deterrents to discourage activity. Ultrasonic emitters, peppermint oil–infused cotton balls, and predator scent products can reduce presence when used in conjunction with sealing and sanitation efforts. Rotate or replace deterrents regularly to prevent habituation.
When infestations persist despite preventive actions, contact a licensed pest‑management professional. Experts can conduct comprehensive inspections, apply rodenticides safely, and offer long‑term monitoring plans to protect the property from future incursions.