With reports of ‘supersized’ rats being discovered around the UK, experts are warning that we will likely continue to see bigger and bigger rats in the future. These animals are climbing up through the nation’s “neglected” drainage systems and into living spaces, invading homes and gardens.
Considering these reports, waste management experts at businesswaste.co.uk are highlighting the top waste mistakes Brits are making that encourage these pests to make their way into our homes. On behalf of the waste removal group, Tony King, owner of London pest control firm The Pied Piper has provided a number of natural remedies to deter rats from your home. One method he recommends is a natural spray that rats will hate the scent of.
Tony explained: “I frequently recommend peppermint oil as a cheap solution, as rats also possess a good sense of smell and hate the scent of peppermint.
“You can soak cotton balls in peppermint essential oil (a small bottle costs around £4–£6) and place them near known points of entry, e.g., around bins, drains, or sheds.
“Another easy and inexpensive method is to combine the oil with water and some vinegar and spray it around the base of bins or compost heaps.”
Rats hate the acidity and strong smell of white vinegar, so spraying it around bin areas, fence lines, or compost bins will encourage these pests to avoid these spaces.
He added: “It’s especially effective combined with cayenne pepper or crushed garlic, both of which are pantry staples that also act as irritants.”
Tom has shared several other ways to deter rats from your property, including reducing the amount of food waste they can access. One big mistake people make when it comes to pest control is to toss food scraps straight into loosely sealed outdoor bins.
Instead, the expert suggests using a food waste caddy with a tightly fitted lid in your home, which can be very effective in ensuring rats and other pests stay away from your home.
It will also be extremely beneficial to regularly clean your bins and not just the inside, but also the rims, lids, and bases. Tom recommends weekly washing of bins with a disinfectant like Zoflora or a bleach-water solution.
Tom continues: “Another critical tip is never to leave tied-up bin bags next to or on top of your bin. Even a securely tied bag can leak smells or be partially ripped, and rats will gnaw through them.
“Place bags in a covered bin always, and if your area is also fox- or other wildlife-prone, consider the use of a wheelie bin lock strap. These can be found online for under £10 and prevent both spills and access.”
Managing waste is the best way to deter rats from your home, but if they have already entered your property, Tom recommends hiring professional pest control.
After these rats have been removed from your home, you can follow Tom’s tips to prevent their return.
