As the summer brings a surge in mouse and rat populations, learn how to deter these rodents from invading homes using inexpensive and eco-friendly methods shared by expert Chris Hutton.
Effective Ways to Keep Mice and Rats Away During the Summer Population Boom
Warmer weather in the summer leads to a boom in the mouse and rat populations as these rodents become more active, scavenging for food and preparing nests for the winter. This increase can lead to infestations in homes, garages, and storage units across the country.
Chris Hutton, the owner of Adams Selfstore, shares inexpensive and humane methods to deter these pests from entering homes.
Tips to Prevent Mice Entry:
- Use Steel Wool:
- Mice can squeeze through tiny gaps and holes, but they cannot chew through steel wool.
- First, identify potential entry points such as cracks, vents, and gaps around pipes.
- Fill these spaces with steel wool and secure it with caulking or adhesive.
- Steel wool is available at supermarkets and homeware stores for around £2.
Tips to Prevent Rat Entry:
- Use Peppermint Oil:
- Rats have a strong sense of smell, and the scent of peppermint is overwhelming for them.
- Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them at entry points such as cracks, gaps, and suspected pathways.
- Replenish the oil every few days to maintain its potency.
- Peppermint oil costs approximately £3, and cotton balls are about £1.
These methods provide an eco-friendly, humane alternative to harmful chemicals and traps.