What should you do if a mouse gets into the apartment? - briefly
Identify and seal all potential entry points, then deploy snap traps or humane catch‑and‑release devices with suitable bait. Store food in airtight containers, remove clutter, and maintain thorough cleaning to discourage any further intrusion.
What should you do if a mouse gets into the apartment? - in detail
If a rodent appears inside your residence, act promptly to limit damage and health risks.
Secure food sources. Store all pantry items in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs, and remove pet food after each feeding.
Eliminate shelter. Declutter closets, under‑furniture spaces, and storage boxes. Seal gaps larger than ¼ in. around pipes, vents, windows, and doors with steel wool, caulk, or expandable foam; rodents can compress smaller openings.
Set traps or baits. Choose snap traps for instant kill, placing them perpendicular to walls where droppings or gnaw marks are visible. Use at least two traps per suspected route, spaced 1–2 ft apart. If poison is preferred, employ tamper‑proof bait stations and follow label instructions to protect children and pets.
Monitor activity. Check traps daily, dispose of captured rodents in sealed bags, and reset devices as needed. Record locations of captures to identify remaining pathways.
Sanitize the area. Wear disposable gloves, then clean surfaces with a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Dispose of contaminated materials (e.g., cardboard, insulation) in sealed containers.
Consider professional assistance. If infestations persist after three days of diligent trapping, or if structural damage is evident, contact a licensed pest‑control operator for comprehensive inspection and treatment.
Prevent recurrence. Maintain regular inspections of exterior walls, roof eaves, and utility penetrations. Trim vegetation away from the building, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Periodic re‑application of sealants and routine trap placement will deter future incursions.