Unfortunately, when winter hits, mice are known for finding a way into unsuspecting residents’ homes where it’s warm and cozy. There are few things more frustrating than finding yourself with a mice infestation. Not only can they enter your cupboards and start eating your food, but they can also destroy your belongings and incur expensive damage. Apart from that, they carry potentially dangerous bacteria that can hurt your family.
So, how do you get rid of these critters as fast as possible? Take a look at some of the best tips for getting rid of mice once and for all.
Find Out Where They’re Coming From
First thing is first. You’ll need to find out how they’re getting into your home. If there is an entry point, then chances are more than just mice are making their way into your home. Make sure that you find the hole and block it off. Take a look around and see if they’ve built a nest, and if so, you’ll need to call a professional exterminator to get rid of it.
Unfortunately, putting mouse traps all over the place alone won’t do the trick. An exterminator knows how to effectively get rid of the problem.
Use Steel Wool
One of the oldest secrets for getting rid of mice is using steel wool to seal off entry points. Since mice are able to fit through a crack the size of a dime, they can easily sneak into places they need to get.
It’s important to know that anything that you place to block it off will easily be gnawed through. Steel wool, however, cannot be chewed through. Mice will not be able to get through anywhere that has been blocked off its sturdy material. Make sure that in addition is steel wool, you also seal off entries with caulk.
Cut Back Trees
One of the worst things you can do for pest problems is surround your home with trees. Tree branches that lead to your house’s roof or windows are basically an invitation for pests to come make a home there.
Even though you may love the shade that trees provide for your house, you’re not doing yourself any favors in terms of pests. In addition to your trees being cut back, you should also keep firewood far away from the home. Piles of wood are inviting mice and all sorts of insects to come make a nest.
Clean Away Food Debris
One of the biggest reasons why mice enter your home is to eat your food. It’s important that any time you make food in your kitchen, you wipe the remains away thoroughly.
In addition to wiping off counters and surfaces, you should also make sure that all of your food is kept in airtight containers. If there’s no food to get to, mice will lose interest in that area.