Mice. It’s quite interesting how these tiny creatures make their way into our homes in search of food, warmth and shelter and end up being a threat to our health. They go as far as leaving traces of urine and faeces making the home an unpleasant and unhealthy place for the family.

Immediately one immigrant makes its way through a tiny space, it reproduces, then the pack becomes a nest of mice chewing on our household appliances, books, toys; getting into cupboards and spoiling packaged food by gnawing on storage bags or plastic containers.

If you have spotted them in your rented apartment or home, here are a few tips on how to get rid of them and prevent an infestation.

CAT vs MICE

What better way to beat a pest than making its little haven unsafe? The enemy of the mouse is the cat. If getting a cat will not trigger an allergic reaction in you or any member of the family, that should ultimately be an option to solving the mice invasion. Plus, it’s natural and eco-friendly too.

BLOCK ENTRY POINTS WITH DUCT TAPE

Once you spot the entry points of the nest, quickly block that passage. It could be under the sink, at the back of the cupboard or under the stove. Use as much duct tape as possible in order to prevent them from creating a hole to carry on their pestilent mission.

BAIT SOLUTION

Bear in mind, poison baits are an easy solution to getting rid of mice, however, they can affect children and pets. Therefore, it is important to use non-poisonous treatments. A popular example of these non-poisonous treatments is the blended or grinded hot concentrated pepper solution. Try spraying that on spots out of reach of children but frequently used or visited by the mice.

SET MOUSE TRAPS

One of the most effective ways to rid your home of mice is to set traps. By far the most common trap is the snap trap. When used correctly, its quick trigger system catches mice in its tracks and kills them quickly. If you don’t mind the potential blood and gore, this method may be for you.

Another effective mouse trap is the electric trap. It simply lures mice into the chamber of the trap before striking with a fatal electric shock. Generally, they are designed to prevent humans and pets from getting electrocuted so there’s relative safety for you and yours.

TAKE AWAY THEIR SUPPLY

Mice are usually looking for warmth, shelter and food in a messy, crumb-filled area or  kitchen. Eating in the bedroom and, especially, on the bed without changing the sheets frequently will invite them in before you even think of sending an invitation card.

To minimise the spread, store food in clean airtight containers. Also, ensure that you always clean countertops and cabinets. Always remember to keep the countertops clean and bare; and cabinets securely shut to starve them.

COVER THE TRASH CAN

Like any other hungry rodent, the trash can is always an option for the mice. Using a rubber cord to keep it shut or a container with an airtight lid will go a long way in reducing the source of nourishment for the nest of mice.

Always ensure that your trash cans are neatly kept and properly covered. In the best case scenario, it is advisable to keep your trash cans outside and empty into a bigger dustbin outdoors at the end of each day. Your dustbin should be kept tidy and in a neat environment always.

If all should fail due to reasons such as the rodent infestation being beyond control before you notice, immediately call an exterminator or a fumigator. Also, in any pest, insect or rodent infestation, if you get to that point where the number keeps increasing, it is highly recommended to quickly seek professional assistance. Let us know how you’ve been keeping your home safe from rodents in the comments below.