What should I do if mice are eating potatoes in the cellar? - briefly
Block all gaps and cracks, install snap traps or approved bait stations, and remove the potatoes from the cellar. Store any remaining tubers in sealed containers or move them to a rodent‑free location.
What should I do if mice are eating potatoes in the cellar? - in detail
Mice in a cellar that are gnawing on stored potatoes require immediate action to protect food supplies and prevent structural damage.
First, remove the contaminated potatoes. Place them in sealed containers and discard any that show signs of chewing or moisture. Clean the area thoroughly with a detergent solution, then dry it completely.
Second, eliminate entry points. Inspect walls, floor seams, pipe penetrations, and ventilation openings for gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Seal cracks with steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth, and install door sweeps on any access doors.
Third, reduce attractants. Store any remaining potatoes in airtight plastic bins or metal cans. Keep the cellar free of spilled grain, crumbs, or organic debris. Maintain low humidity by using a dehumidifier if necessary.
Fourth, implement a control program. Choose one or more of the following methods:
- Snap traps positioned along walls, behind boxes, and near known runways; bait with peanut butter or small pieces of potato.
- Live‑capture traps if removal without killing is required; release captured rodents at least ten miles from the property.
- Bait stations containing anticoagulant rodenticide, placed in tamper‑proof containers and out of reach of children and pets; follow label instructions precisely.
Fifth, monitor progress. Check traps daily for captured mice, replace bait as needed, and re‑inspect seals weekly. Continue the program for at least three weeks after the last capture to ensure the population is eradicated.
Finally, consider long‑term prevention. Install a perimeter barrier around the foundation, keep vegetation trimmed away from the building, and schedule regular inspections each season. Consistent maintenance and prompt response to signs of activity will keep the cellar free of rodent damage.