Mice may be small, but the damage they can cause in a home is anything but. From gnawed wires and shredded insulation to contaminated food supplies, they can wreak havoc around a house. Now that the weather is getting warmer, homes are becoming prime targets for nesting rodents. And once they get inside, getting pests out again can be a complete challenge.
Luckily, harsh chemicals and dangerous traps aren’t the only options. In fact, the gardening blog This Is My Garden has highlighted the benefits of two powerful and natural repellents that will send these mischievous rodents scurrying away. The blog stated: “Two of the best all-natural repellents of all are peppermint oil and cinnamon oil. Mice simply do not like the strong scent of either.
“The oils can be used as a spray to scent openings and areas where mice like to frequent. If they do happen to get in – they won’t stay.”
These scents have also been made into all-natural packets or sachets that can be tucked into kitchen cupboards, attics, garages – even car engines.
“Best of all, they are all natural, so there is no need to worry about toxic chemicals or poison around pets and children,” the blog added. “You just set them in place, and let them work!”
But to make the most of their effectiveness, frequency is key, with the blog noting that “it’s best to replace pouches or respray oil every month or two to keep the scent strong.”
Otherwise, “once the scent weakens, the mice will be more than happy to return.”
According to an 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.
“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.
“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,” Chris explained.
“Once you’ve found them, tightly pack the holes with steel wool. For extra security, seal it in place using caulk or strong adhesive.”
