What should I do if there is a mouse under the baseboard in the apartment? - briefly
Inspect the baseboard for openings, seal any gaps with steel wool and caulk, and set snap or humane traps directly beneath the board. If mice continue to appear, engage a licensed pest‑control service for comprehensive removal.
What should I do if there is a mouse under the baseboard in the apartment? - in detail
If a rodent is hiding behind the baseboard in your flat, take immediate, systematic action.
First, confirm the presence. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, or fresh tracks. Listen for scurrying sounds, especially at night. Use a flashlight to inspect the gap between the wall and the baseboard; a small opening may reveal the animal or its nests.
Next, eliminate food sources. Store all perishables in sealed containers, clean crumbs from the floor, and empty trash daily. Remove pet food after each feeding. A clean environment reduces attraction.
Identify and seal entry points. Examine the perimeter of the baseboard for cracks, holes, or gaps around pipes and wiring. Apply steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding foam to fill openings, then cover with caulk or a strip of wood. Ensure no new gaps are created during repairs.
Choose an appropriate control method. Options include:
- Snap traps positioned perpendicular to the wall, baited with peanut butter or chocolate.
- Live‑catch traps, also baited, allowing relocation of the captured mouse at least 2 km from the residence.
- Electronic traps that deliver a quick, humane kill.
Place traps directly against the baseboard, spaced 1–2 ft apart, and set them night‑time when activity peaks. Check traps daily; dispose of dead rodents promptly, wearing gloves and a mask to avoid disease exposure.
If traps fail after several days, or if the infestation appears extensive, contact a licensed pest‑control professional. They can perform a thorough inspection, apply rodenticides safely, and implement long‑term exclusion measures.
Finally, monitor the area for at least two weeks. Replace any disturbed seals, reset traps if new activity is observed, and maintain strict sanitation to prevent recurrence.