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It’s easy to panic when you first see signs of mice in your home, but by investing in the right products from the outset, you can be ready to address the issue quickly. Early signs of the presence of mice—like droppings, gnaw marks, or scratching noises—shouldn’t be ignored. These pests can quickly multiply and cause significant damage to your home and peace of mind.
If you act promptly, however, you can prevent a minor nuisance from becoming a major rodent infestation. This shopping guide details everything you’ll want to stock up on at the first signs of a mouse problem. We also spoke to Peter Rania, president and CEO of Waltham Pest Control in Burlington, Massachusetts, for his input on the best picks for mouse control.
1. Steel Wool
When you notice signs of a mouse problem, the first step is to figure out where the rodents are entering your home. Once you’ve determined the entrance points, steel wool is a great tool. It can fill gaps and holes around pipes, vents, and other small spaces that mice can squeeze through. Steel wool is durable and difficult for mice to chew through, making it an effective barrier. While you can use steel wool you already have around the house, the Xcluder Rodent Control Fill Fabric is specifically designed to fill gaps to keep mice out of your home.
Get the Xcluder fabric at Amazon for $26.94.
2. Caulking Supplies
For a more permanent solution, caulking supplies are crucial for sealing cracks and crevices in your home to prevent mice from entering. Look for a high-quality silicone caulk that is weatherproof and durable. Gorilla’s Waterproof Caulk & Seal dries quickly and seals against moisture as well as pests. Applying caulk around vents, windows, and other potential entry points can help keep your home rodent-free.
Get the Gorilla caulk at Amazon for $9.84.
3. Rodent-Proof Storage Bins
As soon as you see signs of a mouse infestation, it’s important to protect your nonperishable food from hungry intruders. Storing food and other items in rodent-proof bins also helps prevent attracting mice. These Iris USA 19-Quart Storage Boxes are durable and secure, protecting your belongings from pests. They are designed to be airtight, so mice can’t smell or access the contents. They come in a pack of six.
Get the Iris USA storage bins at Amazon for $89.99.
4. Door Sweeps
Installing door sweeps on exterior doors prevents mice from entering your home. These sweeps seal gaps at the bottom of doors, blocking a common entry point for rodents. They’re easy to install and provide an effective barrier against mice and other pests. The Holikme Door Draft Stopper comes in a variety of colors and sizes to best match your door.
Get the Holikme stopper at Amazon for $6.95.
5. Snap Traps
Once you’ve sealed all potential entry points and protected your pantry items, it’s time to exterminate the mice who have made it inside. Snap traps are a go-to solution for many homeowners because they’re effective and have a humane design. These traps are easy to set up and can be placed all over the house. “I prefer the Victor Quick-Kill Mouse Trap, which kills mice instantly upon contact,” says Rania. “Place two to three traps along walls where you see droppings or entry points. Bait the trigger plate with peanut butter to attract mice.”
Get the Victor Quick-Kill Mouse Trap at The Home Depot for $6.49.
6. Live Catch Traps
Live catch traps are an even more humane option for those who prefer to release mice back into the wild. These traps safely capture mice without harming them, making them an excellent choice for ethical pest control. The Motel Mouse Humane No Kill Live Catch and Release Mouse Traps come in a pack of two and are safe for homes with pets and young children. They’re easy to set up and use, ensuring a stress-free experience for both you and the captured mice.
Get the Motel Mouse traps at Amazon for $13.99.
7. Rodenticide Bait Blocks
When dealing with mild to moderate infestations, rodenticide bait blocks are highly effective. Rania says the Bell Contrac Rodenticide Bait Blocks are his top pick. “The active ingredient, bromadiolone, is very effective and approved for outdoor use. Place bait in secured, tamper-resistant bait stations away from people and pets. The bait will kill mice within 3 to 5 days after feeding,” he explains.
Get the Bell Contrac rodenticide at Amazon for $118.25.
8. Electronic Repellents
Electronic traps offer a modern solution to traditional mouse traps. “I like the Victor Electronic Humane Mouse Trap, which delivers a quick electric shock to kill mice,” says Rania. He further explains that these traps can hold multiple mice before emptying them, making them ideal for larger infestations. An LED light lets you know when a mouse has been caught so you can empty the trap.
Get the Victor mouse trap at Amazon for $19.98.
9. Professional Pest Control
If the infestation is severe, consider hiring professional pest control services. “Exterminators can fully assess the situation, eliminate existing mice, and seal up any entry points to prevent future problems,” Rania says. “An integrated pest management approach works best for long-term mouse control.”
The prices listed here are accurate as of publication on August 26, 2024.