How to Keep Mice Out of Your House This Winter
![mouse walking across soil](/public_files/kentuckypest-live/styles/large_1000x450/public/images/mouse.webp?h=361bc60c&itok=naVRWQ6o)
Rodents can be a nightmare for homeowners, especially during the winter months. These pesky creatures can sneak into your home through the tiniest cracks and cause havoc. Don't worry! We lay out some proactive measures that will help keep those critters at bay.
Tip #1 - Seal off entry points
These little rodents can squeeze through gaps as small as ¼-inch. Take the time to inspect your home for any openings and seal them up tight. Check your window screens for tears, use wire mesh to fill cracks in walls or the foundation, and don't forget to cover gaps around pipes with mesh and caulk. By doing so, you'll create an impenetrable barrier that will prevent rodents from entering your home.
Tip #2 - Elevate your firewood
If you're storing firewood for the winter, make sure to elevate the logs at least 18 inches off the ground and keep them away from your house. Rodents love cozy spaces, and stacked firewood provides the perfect hiding spot. By keeping it elevated and away from your home, you'll remove any rodent-friendly conditions.
Tip #3 - Install a brush strip
Adding a sweep or brush strip to your exterior doors may seem like a small step, but it can make a world of difference. These strips create an additional barrier and make it difficult for rodents to enter your home. By investing in this simple yet effective solution, you'll significantly reduce the risk of a rodent invasion.
Tip #4 - Maintain your landscaping
Overgrown vegetation and branches that hang close to your house can provide rodents with easy access to your roof or attic. Stay one step ahead by regularly trimming your trees and tidying up your yard. Remove any weeds, leaf piles, and debris. By doing so, you'll create an environment that is less appealing to rodents and keep them at bay.
Tip #5 - Use herbal repellents
Rodents have a keen sense of smell, and certain scents like peppermint and eucalyptus can be a powerful deterrent. Consider putting mothballs underneath your porch or hanging them in mesh bags or stockings around your house. Alternatively, you can create a mixture of peppermint essential oil and water and spray it on possible entry points. These natural remedies will help keep those furry intruders away.
Tip #6 - Store items off the floor
Rodents love undisturbed areas where they can make their nests. Don't give them the opportunity! Store your boxes and belongings off the floor. This simple step will deny them a cozy hiding spot and make your home less inviting.
Tip #7 - Clear leave and other lawn debris
Piles of leaves and overgrown shrubs create the perfect haven for rodents. Take the time to clear them, especially around your home's foundation. By removing these attractive hiding spots, you'll greatly reduce the likelihood of a rodent infestation.
Preventing rodents from entering your home during the winter is not as daunting as it may seem. By following these effective strategies, you can safeguard your home and keep it rodent-free. Take charge of your home's protection and enjoy a cozy winter without unwanted furry guests. Need professional rodent control? Contact our rodent exterminators at Kentucky Pest Control!