Urban Myth: Natural/DIY Methods Are Better for Getting Rid of Mice

Urban Myth: Natural/DIY Methods Are Better for Getting Rid of Mice

It won’t be long until the temperature drops. At this time of year, pests like mice come indoors for the winter in search for food, warmth, and shelter. Though they may be cute, mice aren’t a pest you want in your home. They breed fast, cause damage to your possessions and property, and there are some nasty pathogens in their urine and droppings.
But what’s the best way to get rid of mice? Should you opt for a trap or poison bait? Or do natural methods work?
Not having to use chemicals or other forms of heavy-duty pest control is a nice thought. But sadly, most natural ways of getting rid of mice just don’t work.

Let’s look at some of the natural ‘repellents’ you might have heard about.

Peppermint oil
Go online and you’ll see articles about how strong smells like peppermint oil can get rid of mice. The theory is that mice just aren’t keen on the strong smell. The reality is that mice aren’t likely to be too bothered by it. The smell doesn’t tend to last that long and scents tend to rise and disperse in the air. This is not likely to bother a tiny mouse who is scurrying along the floor. Our verdict on whether peppermint oil gets rid of mice? It’s a no from us.

Ultrasonic repellers-do they get rid of mice?
You will definitely come across one of these devices if you are looking to get rid of mice from your home. The theory is good-the device emits a high-frequency sound that irritates and deters mice. However, a mouse will most likely hear the sound and either move to a different part of your property, or they’ll get used to it. Nope, if you want to get rid of mice, you’ll have to go back to the drawing board.

Mothballs
Mothballs contain a chemical, usually naphthalene, which is a pesticide. While they might keep moths away from your woolly jumpers, they won’t get rid of mice. Mothballs don’t contain high enough concentrations of naphthalene to bother mice, and even if they did, the mice would probably just find a way to avoid them.

Getting rid of mice-what actually works?
To deter mice from your home, the best things you can do are:
Seal up anywhere they could get in: This could prove difficult since mice can squeeze through the tiniest of gaps, but it’s worth a shot. Seal up holes in walls and around pipework. Cover vents with wire mesh, and check for gaps under doors.
Keep your home clean and tidy: Clear up crumbs from the kitchen floor. Don’t leave leftovers lying around or allow rubbish to pile up. Keep any produce in airtight containers.
Call in professional help: Mice breed fast and they carry and spread diseases. Don’t put your home and family at risk, call in professional pest control. It’s the only way to get rid of mice from your home and keep them out.