How to Repel Mice Naturally
Mice can be an irritating nuisance when they come inside your home. Just like all other creatures, mice also need food, warmth, and shelter, becoming the most unwelcome guests in many households.
Chemical repellants and traps are the most common solution for mice, but they pose an inherent risk to children and pets. This is why many homeowners prefer natural mouse repellents as a safer alternative.
Let us give you a look at the top ways to repel mice naturally and keep your home rodent-free without using any toxic chemicals.
Do Natural Mouse Repellents Actually Work?
Natural mouse repellents are the preferred choice for many people, especially when it comes to their children and pets safety. There are several effective natural mouse repellents, but their effectiveness depends on the method and proper process. It is essential to practice natural methods for long-term results, unlike chemical-based repellents.
Some repellents help when handling mice infestation by affecting their sense of smell. On the other hand, some repellents create barriers and prevent mice from entering. You will get the best result if you mix different repellents and seal entry points to keep mice away.
Best Natural Ways to Repel Mice
1. Use Peppermint Oil
Mouse hate the smell of peppermint oil, so make it an effective mouse repellents. Firstly, you have to identify the infested area and place a cotton ball soaked in peppermint oil. Such areas can be kitchen corners, cabinets, and entry points. You can also use it around baseboards and doorways but mixed with water. Repeat this process every few days for consistent results.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar also has a strong smell, making it a perfect mouse repellent. Create a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water and then spray all around the entry points and along baseboards. This tends to mask the smell of food to which mice are attracted while rendering the surroundings less appealing. However, repairing the process once every month is needed for better results.
3. Use Fabric Softener Sheets
Few people consider fabric softener sheets as rodent repellent due to their strong smell. However, there is a debate about this solution. But, some people claim that inserting these sheets in drawers, closets, and other hiding places helps keep rodents away.
Others claim that mice may nest in the sheets. If you are unsure what to do, combine this method with other repellent methods for more effective results.
4. Try Cat Litter
Used kitty litter is another natural and efficient way to deter mice. Smelling cat ruing works like a danger for mice. They think there is a cat somewhere around. You can use litter around entry points to make your home feel unsafe for rats. However, think twice before applying this method as the litter smell can be awful for your family members.
5. Steel Wool
One of the best and most effective ways to keep mice away is sealing entry routes with steel wool. Since they cannot chew steel wool, stuffing it into cracks, holes, and gaps will help you avoid their entry inside. Use a strong adhesive to keep the steel wool in place, especially around pipes, vents, and baseboards.
6. Seal Entry Points
Even if there are tiny holes in your home, mice can enter through it. Therefore, closing off all access points is necessary. Use caulk, steel wool, or expanding foam to close up any possible gaps around:
- Pipes and wires
- Doors and windows
- Vents and chimneys
- Baseboards and wall moldings
Cracks in the foundation should also be examined since the smallest gaps can be entryways for rodents.
7. Humane Traps
For those who prefer humane solutions, live traps are a better alternative. In fact, such traps are the best outdoor mouse repellents as well. With these traps, you can see and catch the mice without harming them. Once caught, you can relocate the mouse far from your home in a wooded area or an open space. However, ensure that you check the traps daily to avoid unnecessary suffering.
Best Scents That Mice Hate – Effective for Mice Infestation
1. Cinnamon
Because of the strong scent, you can try cinnamon as a mouse repellent. Make sure to place it in areas where mice mostly hide including drawer sticks, cabinets and cornets. Also, it is preferable to use cinnamon essential oil for better results.
2. Clove Oil
Since the smell of clove oil is potent, mice find it unbearable. Soak cotton balls in clove essential oil and place them in corners, under appliances, and along baseboards. Another strategy is scattering whole cloves around suspected mice’s nesting areas.
3. Tea Bags
Strong-scented tea bags like peppermint or black tea are great for getting rid of mice. Whenever you brew tea, keep the tea bags aside and let it try. Once dried, you can place it around entry points and behind furniture. Since such bags have a strong smell, mice will never try to invade your home.
4. Mint Toothpaste
Another scent-based mouse repellent is the mint toothpaste. Put some mint toothpaste along the baseboards, doorways, and the suspected entry points.
5. Mothballs
Mothballs are full of naphthalene, and that’s why they repel mice. Using mothballs should be done with caution. Mothballs can be harmful to humans and pets, so you should leave them in places that are out of reach for children and pets.
6. Chili Oil or Powder
Chilli powder or Chilli oil will cause irritation when inhaled or touched by the mice. Sprinkle a small amount in areas where rodents are active, but do not use too much since it may also cause irritation for you and your pets.
Conclusion
To get rid of mice naturally, you may need to use odor-based repellents and physical barriers. In contrast, natural remedies are effective, always prior to sealing entry points and keeping your home clean.
These practices play a major role in preventing rodents from infestations. Moreover, in case everything fails, seek professional help for further guidance.
FAQs
How do mice get attracted to my house?
The mouse may get attracted to your house if there are food crumbs, warmth, or shelter for them.
How many times do I have to try natural repellents for mice?
Almost all natural repellents need reapplication to provide you with consistent or even better results.
Can I use essential oils to eliminate mice completely?
Yes, you can, but don’t rely on it. Such oils provide you with better results if you combine them with other preventive measures.
Don’t Let Rodents Invade Your Home With Safe Pest Sol!
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