Humane and Eco-Friendly Ideas to Get Rid of Your Mice Problem

Mice are a problem many of us have to deal with especially in the early winter months. Whether you notice droppings, scurrying, or nibbled corners, having mice invade your space calls homeowners to action. Some of the most common solutions for mice are either inhumane or rely on toxic substances. Here are some human and eco-friendly ideas to get rid of your mice problem in a healthier way.

Peppermint Oil

One of the most widely known ways to safely get rid of mice is by using peppermint oil. This is a natural repellent for many different types of animals and insects. Get a bottle of 100 percent pure peppermint oil and put several drops on a few cotton balls. Place the balls where the mice are usually seen, or known to be, to drive them away. The cotton balls need to be replaced around every three days.

Mothballs

Mothballs are a classic mouse repellent. Just put them in drawers, basements, or anywhere you see mice in the house. You might need to use a large amount to completely get rid of the mice since not all mice respond negatively to mothballs. There is a one-third chance the mice in your house might ignore the mothballs as well.

Scented Dryer Sheets

Scented dryer sheets work very well to keep mice out of your cabinets, drawers, and other tight spaces. Find dryer sheets that have a very strong and distinct scent. This might take some trial and error. Put the sheets in the areas where you do not want mice to congregate, and replace them every week or two.

Spicy Spray

A spicy spray can keep mice from climbing on things, and chewing on items in your home. Combine oil, garlic, horseradish, and plenty of cayenne pepper in a container. Allow to sit for two or three days. Filter the mixture into a spray bottle. Mice will stay away from any surface you spray for at least a week.

Homemade Mouse Trap

You can make a home-made mouse trap at home. Get a cardboard tube from a roll of toilet paper and tape it to the end of a countertop where you see the mice. Only around an inch should be taped down. The rest should be hanging off the end. Put a bit of peanut butter inside the tube on the hanging end. Place a tall trash can underneath the roll. Mice will go into the tube and then fall into the trashcan so you can take them outside peacefully.

According to Chem-Wise Ecological Pest Management Services in Rolling Meadows IL, mice can carry and transmit diseases like salmonella and hantavirus. This makes getting them out of the house even more important for keeping your family safe and healthy. But getting rid of them is no easy feat. Mice are persistent, breed quickly, and can hide for a long time without being noticed. You have to be vigilant about possible entry points. These methods should help to drive the mice out of your home safely and humanely.