How to Keep Mice and Rats Away

How to Keep Mice and Rats Away

Keeping mice and rats away starts with making your home less inviting. Rodents are attracted to places that provide food, water, shelter, and easy access. By removing these attractants and using a rodent repellent, you can help discourage mice and rats from settling around your property.

Eliminate Food Sources

Store pantry items, pet food, and bird seed in tightly sealed containers. Clean up crumbs and spills promptly, keep trash cans securely closed, and avoid leaving pet food outdoors overnight.

Reducing available food is one of the most effective ways to discourage rodents.

Seal Entry Points

Mice and rats can enter through surprisingly small openings. Inspect your home for:

• Gaps around doors and windows

• Cracks in the foundation

• Openings around utility lines

• Damaged vents

• Torn screens

Seal these entry points to help prevent rodents from getting inside.

Remove Hiding Places

Rodents prefer dark, quiet areas where they can nest. Keep garages, basements, attics, crawl spaces, sheds, and storage rooms clean and organized. Trim overgrown shrubs and remove piles of wood, leaves, or debris near your home's foundation.

Eliminate Water Sources

Repair leaking pipes, fix dripping outdoor faucets, and remove standing water whenever possible. Limiting access to water makes your property less attractive to rodents.

Apply a Rodent Repellent

Treat common rodent travel routes and entry points around foundations, garages, sheds, crawl spaces, and other areas where mice and rats are active. Applying a rodent repellent according to the label directions can help discourage rodents from entering your home.

Combining regular treatments with good home maintenance provides the best long-term protection.