Spring marks the peak of breeding season for rats and mice, and so whilst people celebrate the sunshine and warmer conditions, it comes with its downfalls. As the temperatures rise, so does the risk of pests, particularly rats and mice, inviting themselves into homes across the nation. The rodents mainly try to find their way into properties in search of food, shelter, and nesting spots – everything homes provide.
Therefore, getting rid of them is not always a simple task and can result in Brits spending hundreds of pounds on professional pest control services, with the average costing £260. However, there is a way to save money and prevent the rodents from camping out in your home, and the simple hack costs as little as £1.
“Mice can squeeze through the tiniest gaps, but one material they can’t chew through is steel wool,” says Chris Hutton, storage expert at Adam Selfstore.
According to the expert, steel wool, a chemical-free method of blocking the pests from roaming around in homes, is an easy way to “block entry points” that give them access to homes.
“Just pack gaps around pipes or skirting boards with steel wool and seal with caulk for extra protection,” Chris adds.
Steel wool can be purchased for as little as £1 at Iceland, making it a “budget-friendly essential” for those looking to rodent-proof their homes. It is also ideal for situations where traps or poisons are not suitable.
“Start by inspecting your home for possible entry points, such as gaps around pipes, vents, or cracks near doors and skirting boards. Once you’ve found them, tightly pack the holes with steel wool. For extra security, seal it in place using caulk or strong adhesive,” Chris explains.
The expert recommends other natural deterrents, including peppermint oil, clove oil, cayenne pepper, apple cider vinegar, and ultrasonic devices that emit high-frequency sounds unpleasant to rodents but inaudible to humans and pets.
However, Chris also stresses that prevention is just as crucial as deterrence, and the hacks should be used in conjunction with keeping a clean space by decluttering storage space, storing food securely, taking out the rubbish regularly, and sealing up any gaps or cracks.