11 Ways to Prevent a Mouse Infestation

A mouse infestation can be a major problem. Mice can wreak havoc in any household or office premises and can cause a lot of damage. It is best to prevent this nuisance, as it is not always easy to tackle a mouse infestation. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to effectively prevent a mouse infestation.

1. Block All Entry Points

Mice are small creatures that can find their way in through the smallest opening. It is important to ensure that your home is free of small gaps or openings. Close all such entry points with steel wool or plaster.

2. Keep Area Clean

Mice thrive on clutter and dirt. To avoid this malady, keep your home clean at all times.

3. Avoid Leaving Food around

Never leave food open, unless it is at the dining table during a meal. Make sure you store all leftover food in air-tight containers or in the refrigerator, where mice can't access it.

4. Keep Doors Closed at All Times

In warmer climates, some people may have the habit of leaving doors ajar. This can provide mice with a wide entryway to the household. Also, make sure that windows are covered with strong netting.

5. Clear out Garbage Often

Make it a habit to empty out the garbage can every other day. This will prevent food and other trash from rotting in the garbage can.

6. Keep Garbage Closed

Close the garbage can securely all the time. Avoid using garbage cans that do not belong to you. Clean the garbage can regularly to remove all rotten food and other trash. Mice can survive on very little food, and it takes diligent cleaning to deprive them.

7. Clean Dirty Dishes Promptly

After every meal, clean the dirty dishes immediately. Avoid stacking dirty dishes in the sink. As an alternative, you can also soak the dishes in soapy water, or load them up in the dishwasher after a quick rinse.

8. Keep Pet Food Bowls Clean

Leftover pet food and tidbits can also be a major attraction for mice. Make sure you clean the pet bowl frequently. Clean the feeding area regularly so that food particles are not lying around.

9. Avoid Stacking Old Newspapers or Unused Clothes

Mice love to start new colonies in hidden places, such as newspaper stacks and clothes. If you store clothes for a long time, make sure you keep them away in air-tight covers. Avoid collecting too many items that you do not use frequently.

10. Block Vents with Wire Mesh

Vents and ducts can also provide mice with an entrance to the interior of a building. Cover all vents with a strong wire mesh, so that airflow remains unaffected while keeping mice away at the same time. Make sure the mesh is rodent-proof, or else the mice can simply gnaw through it and enter anyway.

11. Use Peppermint Oil

Mice are known to be repelled by the scent of peppermint oil. You can either use a spray made of peppermint oil and water or dab the oil on cotton swabs to repel mice.