What should I do if the house smells of a dead mouse? - briefly
First, locate and remove the dead rodent, then clean the surrounding area with a disinfectant and increase ventilation to dissipate the odor. If the source remains hidden or the smell persists, contact a pest‑control or sanitation professional for assistance.
What should I do if the house smells of a dead mouse? - in detail
If a foul odor indicating a decomposing rodent is present, begin by confirming the source. Search closets, cabinets, wall voids, attic spaces, and behind appliances. Use a flashlight and, if necessary, a small mirror to inspect hard‑to‑reach areas.
Once the carcass is located, protect yourself with disposable gloves, a mask rated for organic vapors, and, if available, eye protection. Place the dead animal in a sealed plastic bag, then double‑bag it to prevent leakage of fluids. Dispose of the sealed containers according to local regulations, typically through a trash service that accepts animal waste.
After removal, ventilate the affected rooms. Open windows and doors, and run fans to circulate fresh air outward. Keep the fans on for several hours, or longer if the smell persists.
Clean the area thoroughly. Apply a detergent solution or an enzymatic cleaner to any surfaces that contacted the body, including floors, countertops, and shelving. Rinse with clean water and dry completely.
Disinfect the cleaned surfaces with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) or an EPA‑approved disinfectant. Allow the disinfectant to remain on the surface for the contact time specified by the manufacturer before wiping it away.
To neutralize lingering odors, sprinkle baking soda on carpets or upholstery, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum. Alternatively, use activated charcoal bags or commercial odor‑absorbing products placed near the source.
Inspect the surrounding structure for entry points. Seal gaps around pipes, vents, and foundation cracks with steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam. Install door sweeps and ensure screens are intact.
If the smell does not dissipate after these steps, or if multiple dead rodents are suspected, contact a licensed pest‑control professional. They can locate hidden infestations, remove additional carcasses, and apply targeted treatments to prevent recurrence.
Finally, maintain regular housekeeping practices: store food in sealed containers, promptly clean spills, and conduct periodic inspections of attics, basements, and crawl spaces. These measures reduce the likelihood of future rodent deaths and associated odors.