Using the right bait is crucial for the traps to work properly. Things like cheese, peanut butter, chocolate and dried fruit will interest them. You can also use things like feathers and cotton balls, as these are items they would commonly use for their nests.
PEPPERMINT OIL
Just a few drops on a cotton ball near where they enter. Mice and rats both hate the smell of peppermint oil. Be sure to replace it every few days as the smell subsides. Peppermint oil is not good for your pets, so make sure it is out of reach for them as well.
Another way to use peppermint is to plant peppermint plants near their entrances to keep them out.
CAT LITTER
If you see areas where mice may nest outdoors, place used cat litter near the entrance. The smell of the litter itself is strong, which may drive them away, but since it is used, they will also smell urine which tells them there are cats nearby.
PATCH HOLES
Permanently sealing the holes will prevent new pests from entering. You can fill the holes with plaster of Paris or cement. Using less permanent options like steel wool, copper mesh, and caulk can also help, but your best bet is to make it permanent as they can eventually eat away at others.
GROUND CLOVE
Ground cloves have a fairly strong odor that will repel mice and rats. You can sprinkle it around the nest entrances or put a mesh bag of it near the hole. This is another one you’ll need to replace every few days as the smell fades.
DRYER SHEETS
Continued on next page
