One of the last things any homeowner would want to find in their home is mice. Mice pose several risks; they can spread diseases, spoil food, gnaw on wiring, and even damage your home’s structure. If you’re noticing droppings, hearing scratching noises in the walls, or seeing gnawed materials, it’s time to take action. Here are practical and effective tips for ridding your O’Fallon, IL home of mice and keeping them from coming back.
Seal Entry Points
Mice can slip through incredibly tiny gaps. Start checking your home for any entry points they can get through. Pay extra attention to areas where utilities enter your home, like plumbing and electrical lines. Seal holes with steel wool, caulking, or metal mesh—materials mice can’t chew through. Don’t overlook garages, attics, and basements, as these are common access points.
Keep Things Clean and Uncluttered
Food and shelter are what attract mice to your O’Fallon, IL home. Eliminate access to both by keeping your home clean and tidy. Store pantry items like cereal, rice, and pet food in airtight containers. Wipe down countertops regularly, sweep floors, and avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight. Reduce clutter in storage areas, as piles of boxes or newspapers provide ideal nesting material for rodents.
Set Traps Strategically
Once mice are in, traps are going to be one of your most efficient ways to get rid of them. Snap traps are reliable and inexpensive, but other options include electric traps and live-catch traps. Bait them with peanut butter, chocolate, or oatmeal, and place them where mice activity is suspected—along walls, behind appliances, and in dark corners. Be sure to check traps daily and wear gloves when disposing of mice to reduce exposure to bacteria or parasites.
Use Natural Deterrents
Some scents naturally repel mice. Peppermint oil, cloves, and ammonia are commonly used options. Soak cotton balls in these substances and place them near suspected entry points and problem areas. While these won’t eliminate a full-blown infestation, they can help discourage mice from settling in or returning after removal.
Call in the Professionals
If DIY methods aren’t solving the problem and you’re still noticing signs of mice, it’s probably time to bring in a pest control expert. Experienced technicians can identify the extent of the problem, locate hidden nests, and apply long-term treatment plans that go beyond surface-level fixes. Many companies also offer follow-up visits to ensure the problem stays resolved.
Prevent Future Infestations
Once your home is mouse-free, take steps to prevent another invasion. Keep garbage sealed, remove food sources from your yard (like bird seed or fallen fruit), and trim shrubs or tree branches away from the house. Continue to check your home seasonally for new gaps or vulnerabilities, especially in the fall and winter when mice seek warmth.
Give American Termite & Pest Control a call today if you need help getting rid of mice in your O’Fallon, IL home.
