What should I use to control mice in a house? - briefly
Use snap or electronic traps combined with concealed rodenticide bait stations, and seal all gaps, cracks, and utility openings to prevent entry. If the problem persists, engage a licensed pest‑control professional for comprehensive treatment.
What should I use to control mice in a house? - in detail
Effective rodent management in a residence requires a combination of exclusion, sanitation, and active removal techniques.
Begin by sealing entry points. Inspect walls, foundations, and utility openings for gaps larger than ¼ inch and fill them with steel wool, copper mesh, or expanding foam. Repair damaged screens and install door sweeps to prevent ingress.
Maintain a clean environment that deprives mice of food and shelter. Store dry goods in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs and spills, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Eliminate clutter in basements, attics, and storage closets, as these areas provide nesting sites.
Active control methods include:
- Snap traps: steel or plastic devices with a spring‑loaded bar; position perpendicular to walls where rodent activity is evident. Use bait such as peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit. Check and reset daily.
- Electronic traps: battery‑powered units delivering a lethal shock; suitable for indoor use and easy to dispose of without mess.
- Live‑catch traps: cage‑style devices that capture without killing; require immediate release far from the property, complying with local regulations.
- Bait stations: sealed containers holding anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant rodenticides; install in inaccessible locations to protect children and pets, and monitor according to label instructions.
When using chemical baits, follow integrated pest‑management principles: limit placement to concealed areas, rotate active ingredients to prevent resistance, and dispose of dead rodents promptly.
If infestations persist despite these measures, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can conduct thorough inspections, apply professional‑grade fumigants or rodenticides, and provide a customized exclusion plan.
Regularly review and reinforce preventive steps to keep rodent populations below damaging levels.