Best way to get rid of mice
Best way to get rid of mice
Mice are taboo in some cultures like most East and southern African tribes but in south East Asia they are considered a delicacy. So when it comes to mice they are generally considered creatures to be gotten rid of either as food or as pests. In the United States, like most countries, they are considered a pest and dangerous one at that because they carry disease.
Mice are sneaky creatures that are adept at hiding and using the cover of darkness and shadows to keep away from human radar. That is why it can be quite challenging to find them even when you can see their presence in your home. But here are the best ways to get rid of mice from your space.
Seal entry points
This is both a preventive and control measure. Sealing off the entry points makes it hard for the creatures to infiltrate your space in the first place. Rodent proofing your house eliminates the chances of encountering this problem so seal off cracks in the foundation as well as in the walls. A mouse can squeeze in through extremely tight spaces as small as the width of a pencil. Use caulk and not rubber, plastic or wood since mice can gnaw right through this materials. Also, use weather stripping for the door and windows.
Invest in mouse traps
A mouse infestation needs a more aggressive approach hence the use of mouse traps. If you prefer to use humane mouse traps you can invest in traps that hold the mouse inside the confinement without causing it pain. The alternative is using a trap that uses glue and holds the mouse in place until it dies. Use baits laced with poison but be careful not to use toxic material that can contaminate the rest of the house. You can also use multiple capture traps or glue traps. Lay many different types of traps so that if the mouse evades one they can definitely be nabbed by the next one.
Use bait stations
These are sealed an packed mice baits that are contained in plastic or paper wrapping. The material can be breached by the gnawing of the mouse so when the mouse gnaws through the wrapping and eats the bait they die. Remember that the bait is usually laced and poisonous so take precautions when handling. Better yet, let the professionals handle this particular aspect of eliminating mice.
Cleanliness
While cleaning is not going to get rid of mice if they are already in, it is certainly a measure to prevent them from entering your space in the first place. Secure your garbage and wipe your floors and counters clean. Store food in jars and refrigerate leftovers.
