Problems Winter Squirrels Cause in DC-Area Homes
01/31/2019
You've probably noticed that we have squirrels in DC. Boy, do we have squirrels. They're everywhere! Usually, that's not a problem. In fact, it's k...
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Get Off That Chair! American Pest Shares Five Tips to Prevent Mice This Winter
11/11/2010
Mice Rats Rodents Tips/Solutions
The coldest months of the year are upon us, which means it won’t be long until countless houseguests begin invading your home ready for good eats and getting cozy.
While we can’t do anything about your second cousins using all of your hot water, there is one house-pest we can help you prevent from infesting your home: Mice.
Those cute little nuisances can cause more damage in your home than you’d realize. Spoiled food, soiled floors and surfaces, and increased bacteria will certainly put a crimp into your holiday celebrations. That’s why American Pest recommends taking preventative measures to ensure your winter is pest-free.
Don’t Open the Door for Them
The easiest way into your home is through the door-isn’t it? Mice can quickly find and take advantage of any opportunity to sneak into your home below your radar, so make sure your entry doors and garage doors are not open if they don’t have to be. Enlist your children for the fight against the enemy by making sure they close all doors behind them before running off.
Seal Them Out
If they aren’t shown the royal treatment at the door, they will find another way in. Sealing cracks, gaps, breaks, or holes in walls or around windows will further deter the efforts of your unwanted guests. Try caulk around openings smaller than a ¼ inch, and copper wire mesh can fill in openings larger than a dime. A professional may be needed to seal holes and openings larger than a golf ball.
Finalize the Blockade
Prevent another method of sneaking in by blocking off exhaust vents and chimneys with ¼ inch hardware cloth, which is too thick for the “Mouseketeers” to chew through.
Remove the Buffet
Put food away after dinner and make sure the dishes are washed promptly, including your pet’s food bowls. Be sure to keep pantry food and pet food in sealed containers. If mice are able to get into your house, they’ll have fewer reasons to stay.
Spread Some Holiday Cheer
A non-toxic mouse repellent that gives your house a pleasant holiday scent-couldn’t be, right? It turns out that peppermint oil has been found to make this dreamy scenario come true. Try mixing two teaspoons of peppermint oil with one cup of water into a spray bottle, and spray the resulting holiday potion on walls and floors.
We hope that these tips will help you enjoy the holiday season without worrying about pests. For more information about preventing mice infestations, contact American Pest today.
