One Surprising Way to Get Rid of Mice That Actually Works

Mice can be found in all sorts of environments, from urban cities to rural areas. But you never want to find them loose in your own home. They can bring dangerous bacteria and germs over all surfaces as well as contaminate water and food items. So while they look cute, they pose major health risks as uninvited guests, while also destroying wires and internal infrastructure. If you notice some furry interlopers, you may be able to drive them out using peppermint essential oil.

Repelling mice with peppermint oil

Mice have strong noses, and the smell of food is likely part of the reason they have infiltrated your home. Fortunately, you can use this powerful sense against them.

“If you have a mice infestation and are looking for DIY solutions to get rid of this pest, look to peppermint oil,’ says Cheri Ring, the owner of A-Action Pest Control. ‘The main chemicals in peppermint oil, menthol, and methadone, can be used as deterrents from rodents as they can not handle the strong scents.”

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How to use peppermint oil to repel mice

One method is a spray made of two teaspoons of concentrated oil mixed with one cup of water. Shake the concoction and spray liberally in affected areas, and reapply daily or as needed. Focus on low areas such as floorboards and cupboards and any cracks near the floor.

Alternatively, soak cotton wool balls in peppermint oil and place them in affected areas. This technique involves more concentrated amounts of oil, therefore, it may be more effective against infestations. 

And to prevent future infestations, you can spray peppermint oil or use a diffuser to keep the smell around the house.

A repellent for other pests

If your house smells like refreshing peppermint, mice aren’t the only creatures who might stay away. The smell can also repel pests such as fleas, aphids, beetles, caterpillars, flies, lice, and moths. However, if you are facing a large infestation, or multiple types of interlopers, seek professional help for a speedy and effective solution.

More DIY prevention

Peppermint oil is often not enough to repel mice on its own but it can be used in conjunction with other prevention methods such as:

1. Repairing holes, cracks, and any damage inside and outside the house to stop rodents from entering. Use chase-proof supplies like hardware cloth, steel reinforced caulk, and metal flashing. 
2. Mice can chew through pretty much anything, except for steel wool. So fill any small gaps with this material from air vents to kitchen cupboards.
3. Mice are attracted to the scent of food so keep the house clean, the trash tightly lidded, and snacks in airtight containers. Additionally, keep the outside clear of any food, garbage, or potential mice shelters such as woodpiles and dense vegetation.
4. Place mouse traps and glue traps around the repaired holes (not close to where peppermint oil was sprayed).

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The risks of DIY natural mice repellents

Many people prefer to get rid of infestations on their own without harsh chemicals that can be unsafe to inhale or touch. It’s a bonus if the repellent could be made from products they already own, such as essential oils. However, “natural” repellents come with risks.

As previously mentioned , peppermint oil is best used alongside other removal methods, such as exclusion and sanitation. Even then, it’s usually not as effective as exterminator spray. And while you wait to see if the oil was effective, the mice could be rapidly breeding, worsening the problem and heightening the risk of food and water contamination. In any event, you must implement strategies to prevent the rodents from returning, such as the aforementioned exclusion and sanitation.

Potential health risks of peppermint oil

Bear in mind, peppermint oil, as well as other essential oils, may be toxic for animals and young children. Additionally, people can have negative reactions to peppermint oil, such as skin and throat irritation and nausea. It should not be applied directly onto skin without diluting it in another substance (such as coconut oil) first. Essential oils in general should not be consumed.

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