How to Keep Mice Out of Your House

As the temperatures drop, you're not the only one seeking warmth and shelter—mice are, too. They can wreak havoc on your home, nesting in hidden areas and chewing through everything from insulation to electrical wiring. Understanding when mice are most active and what attracts them can help you take preventive action before winter sets in. Let’s dive into how to keep mice out of your house and keep your home rodent-free this winter.

When Are Mice Most Active?

Mice are creatures of habit, and their activity levels change with the seasons. Knowing when mice are most active can help you take the right steps at the right time.

• Fall (August to October): As the temperatures begin to drop, mice start looking for warm, sheltered spots to overwinter. This is their most active time, often called "rodent season." They will seek out homes as safe havens from the cold.
• Winter (November to February): Once inside, mice remain active as they forage for food and build nests. They’re less visible outdoors, but indoors, their activity can cause significant damage.
• Spring (March to May): With the warmer weather, mice venture outside in search of food. This period also marks the beginning of their breeding season, leading to potential population surges.
• Summer (June to August): Mice stay active during the cooler parts of the day, continuing to breed and forage for food. However, their indoor activity might decrease unless food sources are abundant.

What Attracts Mice?

To get rid of mice, it's essential to know what attracts them in the first place. Mice seek out areas that provide them with food, shelter, and warmth—three things your home offers in abundance during the colder months.

• Food Sources:
  • Food crumbs and scraps: Mice are opportunistic feeders, attracted to leftover food and even the smallest crumbs.
  • Stored food: Improperly stored food in pantries or cupboards can draw mice. Keep grains, seeds, and pet food in airtight containers to block access.
• Shelter: Mice love cluttered spaces like basements, attics, and behind appliances. These areas provide ideal hiding spots where they can nest undisturbed.
• Warmth: As the fall chill sets in, mice actively search for warm places to escape the cold. Homes with easy access points become prime real estate for these rodents.

How to Keep Mice Out of Your House for Winter

Here’s how to keep mice out of your house effectively:

• Seal Entry Points:
  • Identify and seal holes around doors, windows, pipes, and vents. Mice can squeeze through openings as small as ¼ inch.
  • Use materials like steel wool or copper mesh to fill gaps, as mice struggle to chew through these materials.
  • Install door sweeps to block any gaps under exterior doors.
  • Repair window and vent screens to ensure they’re free from holes or tears.
• Eliminate Food Sources:
  • Store food in airtight containers, including pet food, grains, and seeds.
  • Clean up crumbs and spills immediately to prevent attracting mice.
  • Keep trash in bins with tight-fitting lids and take it out regularly to reduce temptation.
• Maintain a Clean Environment:
  • Declutter areas like basements, attics, and garages, as these are common hiding spots for mice.
  • Regularly clean floors, counters, and other surfaces to remove food debris that might draw mice.
• Outdoor Management:
  • Store firewood away from your home, as it can serve as a nesting spot for mice.
  • Trim trees and bushes near your home to eliminate pathways for mice to access your roof or walls.
• Use Traps and Deterrents:
  • Place traps where you’ve seen signs of mouse activity, such as droppings or gnaw marks. Snap traps are highly effective for quick removal.
  • Consider natural deterrents like peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls in high-activity areas. The strong scent repels mice.

How to Get Rid of Mice if They’ve Made it Inside

Even the most prepared homes can sometimes become a target for mice. If you find signs of an infestation, it's important to act quickly.

• Manual Traps: Snap traps or bait stations effectively catch mice once they’ve entered your home. Place them near known entry points and in areas where mice are active.
• Vacuum and Clean: Remove droppings and nesting materials as soon as possible to eliminate pheromones that might attract other mice.
• Call a Professional: For larger infestations, professional pest control may be necessary to remove mice and prevent future problems.

Don’t Let Mice Take Over

Mice may be small, but they can cause big problems if left unchecked. Luckily, our team has the right strategies to protect your home from becoming their winter retreat. Our expert rodent control service will make your home far less appealing to these unwelcome guests and remove the ones that have already arrived. Before winter hits, trust us to take action and ensure your home remains mouse-free all season.