As temperatures drop and food becomes scarcer outdoors, mice often seek shelter in homes, creating an unpleasant and potentially hazardous infestation. Understanding how mice get in homes and implementing measures to stop mice getting in the house can help homeowners avoid a larger problem. In this guide, we will explore how to identify entry points, practical tips on mice prevention, and the best way to get rid of mice once in a property.
How Do Mice Get in Homes?
Mice are skilled at squeezing through tiny openings. Some common ways how mice get in homes include:
Gaps and Cracks in Walls: Even a crack as small as a pencil eraser can allow a mouse to slip inside.
Openings Around Windows and Doors: Poorly sealed windows and gaps under doors are prime entry points.
Utility and Plumbing Lines: Mice can follow pipes and wiring into your home, making basements and kitchens common starting points for infestations.
Roof Openings and Vents: If mice reach your roof, they may enter through soffit vents, loft vents, or even chimney gaps.
Identifying these weak spots can help you develop a strategy to stop mice entering the house.
How to Prevent Mice in Your House
Now that we know how mice get in homes, let’s explore some effective ways to prevent mice in your house:
Seal Cracks and Openings
Inspect your home for any gaps or cracks, especially around windows, doors, and the foundation. Use steel wool or caulk to block these entry points, as mice cannot chew through these materials.
Use Door Sweeps
Installing door sweeps can stop mice getting in houses, by preventing them from sneaking in under doors. This is especially important for external doors leading to garages or basements.
Secure Food Sources
Mice are attracted to food left out in open spaces. Store all food in containers and keep kitchen counters clean. Regularly empty bins, as even small bits of food waste can attract rodents.
Reduce Clutter
Mice look for sheltered spots to nest, so keeping your home clean and clutter-free reduces potential hiding places. Reducing unnecessary clutter is key to preventing mice getting in homes.
Maintain Your Garden
Trim bushes and trees as overgrown vegetation gives mice cover to approach homes. Keeping compost piles or bird feeders a good distance from your house can also help deter them.
How to Stop Mice Getting in House
In addition to mice prevention tips, there are several measures you can take to actively stop mice getting in the house if you suspect they are nearby. Be sure to follow these expert tips below:
Set Up Traps Near Entry Points
Placing traps around known entry points, such as garage doors and basements, can be an effective way to capture and stop any mice from getting into a house. Snap traps are generally considered to be more effective than glue traps, but both are useful in specific situations.
Consider Natural Deterrents
Mice dislike the smell of peppermint oil and clove oil. Applying these oils around entry points may help to deter and prevent mice from getting in the house. Another worthwhile option is to place used cat litter outside entry points – the scent of a predator can strongly discourage mice.
Use Electronic Repellents
Ultrasonic repellents emit sound frequencies unpleasant to rodents and can be a useful tool to stop mice from entering homes. However, these should be paired with other methods for best results.
Best Way to Get Rid of Mice
If a mice infestation, or any other rodent infestation, has already taken hold on a property, the best way to get rid of mice is often a combination of traps and professional pest control services:
Try Multiple Trap Types
Using a combination of snap traps, glue traps, and live-capture traps can help manage an infestation effectively. Place traps along walls, as mice prefer to travel along the edges of rooms.
Eliminate Nesting Materials
Mice use materials like paper, cloth, and insulation to build nests. Removing potential nesting supplies is one of the best ways to get rid of mice as it reduces their incentive to stay.
Call a Professional
If the infestation is extensive or if traps and deterrents haven’t resolved the issue, consider hiring a pest control professional such as Total Pest Control. Our technicians have the experience and techniques to thoroughly address and remove all signs of mice from your property.
Take Action Against Mice with Total Pest Control
If you’re concerned about a mice infestation or want to ensure your home is fully protected, at Total Pest Control we offer comprehensive pest control solutions across the U.K. Our team of experienced professionals can assess your home, identify entry points, and apply safe and effective methods to eliminate pests.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation. We are the best way to get rid of mice from your home!
