What should I do if mice appear in an apartment, how to get rid of them with folk remedies? - briefly
Seal all gaps, store food in airtight containers, and eliminate water sources; then apply simple home remedies such as cotton balls saturated with peppermint oil, a mixture of mustard and water placed in shallow dishes, or a homemade trap using a peanut‑butter‑baited cardboard wedge inside a bottle funnel. Regularly inspect and maintain these measures to prevent re‑infestation.
What should I do if mice appear in an apartment, how to get rid of them with folk remedies? - in detail
When rodents are detected in a flat, immediate action prevents population growth and property damage.
First, locate the activity. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, shredded material, and fresh footprints. Follow the trail to identify entry points such as gaps around pipes, vents, door frames, and baseboards.
Next, eliminate food sources. Store all consumables in airtight containers, remove pet food after each meal, and clean up crumbs and spills promptly. Dispose of garbage in sealed bags and keep bins closed.
Seal openings with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based filler; these materials resist chewing. Pay special attention to:
- Gaps larger than ¼ inch around utility lines
- Holes in walls or floors
- Spaces under doors and windows
After securing the environment, apply folk‑based control methods:
- Peppermint oil – Soak cotton balls in concentrated oil and place them near suspected routes. The strong scent irritates rodents and discourages passage. Replace every 2‑3 days for sustained effect.
- Garlic and onion – Chop fresh cloves, spread the pieces in corners and behind appliances. The volatile compounds act as a repellent. Refresh weekly.
- Cayenne or hot paprika – Sprinkle a thin layer along baseboards and entryways. The capsaicin causes discomfort on contact. Reapply after cleaning or wet weather.
- Used tea bags – Brew strong black tea, dry the bags, and position them in hiding spots. Tannins create an unpleasant environment. Replace when the scent fades.
- Homemade snap traps – Construct simple wooden traps with a bait of peanut butter or dried fruit. Position them perpendicular to walls, where mice travel. Check daily, dispose of captured rodents, and reset.
If the infestation persists, combine these remedies with a mechanical barrier: install a low‑profile metal or plastic fence around vulnerable openings, ensuring no gaps remain.
Finally, maintain a preventive routine. Conduct monthly inspections, keep food storage sealed, and refresh natural repellents. Consistent sanitation and structural sealing reduce the likelihood of re‑infestation without resorting to chemical poisons.