Homeowners often worry about mouse infestations, and sadly, there is a lot of false information out there about this problem. It’s important to tell the difference between facts and lies when it comes to mouse control, from old wives’ tales to do-it-yourself projects that might not work. Let’s bust some common mouse control myths and get clear on what works and what doesn’t.
1. It’s not true that cheese is the best bait for mouse traps.
The picture of a mouse nibbling on a piece of cheese is well-known, but it’s not the best bait. Mice are more interested in things that are high in protein, like chocolate, peanut butter, or seeds. Using these options makes it more likely that the trap will work.
2. Myth: Mice can’t get in if cats are around.
Cats are natural killers, and they might catch a mouse once in a while, but they aren’t a surefire way to keep mice away. A cat might not catch all of the mice because some are too smart or slow to move. For mouse control to work, both preventative steps and traps must be used together.
3. False: ultrasonic repellents are always effective
Ultrasonic gadgets say they make sounds that keep mice away, but it’s not clear how well they work. Studies have shown that these gadgets don’t always work very well, and mice can get used to the sounds. It’s safer to use a complete method that includes traps and sealing off entry points.
4. Myth: Mice are only a problem in the winter
Even though mice may stay inside during the winter, they can be a problem all year long. During warmer months, they may still come inside to find food and a good place to nest. No matter the season, you need to be very careful when controlling a mouse.
5. Myth: Mice are dirty animals that like filth.
Mice can do well in places where food and housing are easy to get to, but they are not naturally drawn to dirty places. It’s important to keep things clean to keep pests away, but mice will still be drawn to any area with food, even if it’s well-kept.
6. Myth: Do-it-yourself traps work just as well as professional pest control
Even though do-it-yourself mouse traps can catch a few mice, they aren’t always enough to get rid of an entire population. Professional pest control services look at the problem as a whole, finding entry spots, putting in place preventative measures, and using targeted treatments to get rid of the whole population.
7. Myth: Mice always live in the basement or first floor of a house
Mice are very good at climbing and can get to the upper floors of a house. To get to different places, they often use power lines, pipes, and even climb walls. When taking precautions, it’s important to deal with entry places on all floors of the house.
8. Myth: One mouse isn’t a big deal
Fact: One mouse often means there are more. Mosquitoes like to be with other mice and rarely move alone. As soon as you see a mouse, you need to take action to stop their nest from spreading.
9. Myth: Peppermint oil can keep bugs away for good.
Some people say peppermint oil works well to keep mice away, but others say it doesn’t work at all. Mice may not like something at first, but they can get used to it. Peppermint oil might not be enough to solve the problem in the long run.
10. Myth: Once the mice are gone, you don’t need to close off entry points.
Even after getting rid of mice successfully, it’s important to seal off any possible entry places to keep them from coming back. Mice can easily get back if there are still ways for them to get in. Filling in these holes is an important part of long-term mouse control.
When it comes to getting rid of mice, false information can cause tactics that don’t work and infestations that last longer. It’s important to understand how mice really act and use control methods that are based on facts. By busting some common myths, people can take smart steps to keep mice out of their homes. For complete and long-lasting mouse control solutions, it’s helpful to get help and advice from professionals.