Mouse and Rat Control
Inspect home for entry points and rodent signs
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Tools Needed
- flashlight
- steel wool
- caulk gun
- snap traps
- gloves
Parts & Materials
Available from multiple retailers
Available from multiple retailers
Available from multiple retailers
Available from multiple retailers
Available from multiple retailers
ā ļø Safety First
š§ Tools Needed
š¦ Materials
š Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Inspect home for entry points and rodent signs
2. Seal holes larger than 1/4 inch with steel wool and caulk
3. Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens
4. Remove food sources by storing in sealed containers
5. Place snap traps along walls where droppings are found
6. Use appropriate bait - peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit
7. Check and reset traps daily until no more catches
8. Clean and disinfect areas where rodents were active
9. Install hardware cloth over vents and openings
10. Trim vegetation away from house exterior
11. Monitor for signs of new rodent activity
š” Pro Tips
ā Common Mistakes to Avoid
š Troubleshooting
Traps not catching mice
*Cause:* Wrong bait, poor placement, or trap avoidance
*Fix:* Change bait type, move traps to active areas, use fresh traps
Catching mice but more keep appearing
*Cause:* Entry points not sealed or large infestation
*Fix:* Inspect for missed entry points and increase trap density
Strong odor from dead rodent
*Cause:* Rodent died in inaccessible area
*Fix:* Locate and remove if possible, odor will dissipate in 1-2 weeks
ā Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the best bait for mouse traps
A: Peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit work well - avoid cheese
Q: How many traps do I need
A: Start with 6-12 traps for average home, more for heavy infestation
ā Checklist
Related Guides
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Inspect foundation and crawl space for termite activity
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