Temperatures are currently starting to drop in the UK, causing mice to seek refuge from the cold and cosy up inside your home. Even if you think all the openings to your home are sealed, mice know how to wiggle their way inside, especially when threatened by freezing temperatures. While they may look harmless, these pests can cause damage, possibly carry diseases and even become a fire hazard, which is why it’s imperative to take action immediately.
Pest control experts at Rentokil said: “We know how stressful and surprising it is to experience a mouse sighting inside your house. Even more daunting is the thought of getting rid of it.
“While more serious infestations warrant seeking professional help, there are a number of natural home remedies that can assist in keeping mice out of your home.
“Home remedies are often favoured in pest control because they are non-toxic, effective, and, in many cases, the more humane option.”
Peppermint oil
Poison baits may seem like an easy solution, but they can also be risky. Poison can sicken pets and children in your home, so it’s safer to stick with non-poisonous baits and treatments.
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Fabric softener sheets
Surprisingly, mice really do not enjoy the scent of dryer sheets. This is great news because this is a product homeowners might already have laying around their house
The best part? It takes even less work than spraying, sprinkling or misting other scents.
The pest control experts said: “Mice can’t stand the smell of fabric softener. Stuffing these sheets in suspected entry points will not only keep mice at bay, but keep your home smelling fresh and clean.”
Unfortunately, they will lose their scent after a while and will need to be replaced to continue being effective in that given area.
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Used kitty litter
Got that cat? If Britons scoop out some used unscented kitty litter and put the litter into a jar this is apparently very effective for warding off mice.
The experts said: “It is well-known that cats are natural predators of mice and they will scarper when they suspect a cat lives in the home.
“Place tubs of used kitty litter near suspected access points in your home and they will not return.”
The reason to use unscented litter is so that the scent won’t cover up the smell of urine with perfumes.
Apple cider vinegar
As mentioned earlier, mice hate strong scents due to their intense sense of smell. Apple cider vinegar just may be the strongest scent out there, especially when it is left undiluted.
This strong, sour aroma is good for repelling many creatures, and mice are no exception.
For those who can’t stand the smell of vinegar, they can dilute it with water and it will still have an effect on mice.
The pest experts advised: “Spray this mixture around the perimeter of your house as well as in any access points inside. Make sure to re-apply the solution once a month.”
