Do you have a mouse problem every winter? How to keep the mice out forever!
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Pest Control doesn't have to be a headache. There are many things you can do to prevent an infestation completely and save you from the stress and financial burden of extermination. All it takes is a little elbow grease and determination. Since mice are common in winter, here's what you can do now to avoid them completely.
1. Block entry points
Mice crawl into the house through holes in the wall. Take a close look at the exterior of your home and repair any opening you find. Use silicone gaskets to repair cracks in the siding and window frame. Look for gaps on the sides of your soffit and seal them as well. Then, seal cracks in your foundation with epoxy and cover the wall openings with a quarter-inch galvanized steel grille.
2. Keep the doors closed
Leaving the door open to let in some air can let in some mice too. Keep your doors closed and add seals to their bums to keep mice from crawling under. Any gap that is a quarter of an inch or wider should be sealed. Have fly screen doors installed if you want to leave the doors open.
3. Place food in sealed containers
Mice can smell the outside of your food. While you can't get rid of your food, everything can be sealed to reduce odors and keep mice out. Put all of your groceries from the pantry in sealed jars and containers. Things like flour, sugar, pasta, rice, cereal, and beans should all be out of reach. There are all kinds of Pantry organizers out there that can help you stay organized while being completely pest-proof at the same time.
4th Keep the house clean
Mice are attracted to crowded houses that smell like food. So a little autumn cleaning and tidying up. Vacuum thoroughly and remove any dust that has accumulated under the stove, refrigerator, couch, and beds. Wipe the floors to remove grease. Then do your best to keep the house in good condition all winter. Washing up and taking out rubbish every night.
5. mMake garbage inaccessible
Clean your garbage cans, then tie them with elastic cords to keep a mouse from getting in. Store your garbage cans in a shed or garage until the day of collection. Mice are omnivores, so they love to eat what's in your trash. Use lidded trash cans indoors and take your trash outside every night to reduce odors.
6. Clear the sides of the house
Mice have poor eyesight, so they like to follow the same path every night. As prey, they prefer to take cover, so be sure to keep the sides of your house clear. Move firewood and Patio furniture away from the outside walls of the house and prune shrubs so that they are neat, with space underneath. Also, be sure to keep compost and trash out of your home.
7th mover the bird feeder
Bird feeders attract squirrels, mice, rats, and other wildlife. Once in the yard they can try to find a way into the house. If you can, switch to a hanging suet feeder that you keep away from home, or do without it altogether.
8. Adopt a cat
If you've already thought about it, here's another reason to get yourself a cat. Cats are famous for their mouse skills. They are very efficient at catching mice and can scare them right off your property. Most cats will show their owners when they have caught a mouse, which can warn them of the onset of an infestation. Cats are wonderful companions. If you are interested, have a look at your nearest animal shelter.
9. Use rodent Repellants
Try adding ultrasonic rodent repellants near the entrances to your home to keep mice out. We can't hear them, but these devices make irritating, high pitched sounds that mice can't stand. Alternatively, you can spray a peppermint solution around your doors and windows. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with a cup of water and a drop of dish soap, then apply the spray every few weeks. Mice don't like mint.
10. Hire a mouse control professional
Many pest control companies offer exclusion services in addition to removal. They can inspect your property and seal entry points for you. Professionals are pretty thorough and know what to look for. You should also call the professionals as soon as you observe mouse activity. Mice can get out of control in no time. Call the professionals in your area to remove and lock the mouse.
