How to Get Rid of Rodents in Your Home

If you’re hearing scratching sounds at night or spotting droppings in the kitchen, you may have a rodent problem. Mice and rats are not only destructive but can also spread disease. Here’s how to get rid of rodents in your home quickly and effectively.

Seal Entry Points

Rodents enter through tiny cracks and holes. Sealing these areas helps stop an infestation before it starts.

• Inspect the exterior of your home, especially around the foundation, doors, and windows.
• Seal gaps with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh.
• Install door sweeps and repair torn screens.

Use Traps and Bait

Traps and bait stations are a reliable way to catch and kill rodents already inside.

• Use snap traps, electronic traps, or enclosed bait stations.
• Place traps along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected entry points.
• Use peanut butter, seeds, or dried fruit as bait.

Eliminate Food and Water Sources

Rodents are drawn to homes with easy access to food and water.

• Store food in airtight containers.
• Wipe down countertops and sweep floors daily.
• Fix leaks and remove standing water.
• Take out the trash regularly and keep lids tightly closed.

Clean Up Clutter

Rodents love hiding in dark, cluttered areas. Reducing their hiding spots makes your home less inviting.

• Declutter basements, attics, and garages.
• Organize storage items in sealed plastic bins.
• Avoid leaving laundry or paper piles on the floor.

Maintain Your Yard

Rodents often start outside before making their way indoors.

• Keep grass trimmed and bushes well-maintained.
• Remove fallen fruit, birdseed, and garden waste.
• Store firewood at least 20 feet from your home.

Seek Professional Help

If you've tried various methods and suspect that rodents have taken up residence in your home, it may be time to seek professional rodent control services. The team at Midwest Pest Control is expertly trained to deal with rodent infestations and can provide effective solutions tailored to your specific situation. Don't hesitate to contact us today - sometimes, it's best to leave it to the experts.

Recognizing Signs of Rodents

Now that you know how to get rid of rodents in your home, it's important to be aware of signs that indicate their presence. By being vigilant, you can take appropriate measures to address a potential rodent infestation. 

Here are the most common signs of a rodent infestation:

• Rodent droppings: Fresh droppings are dark and moist, while older droppings are dry, gray, and crumble if touched. They are usually found near food packages, in drawers or cupboards, under sinks, in hidden areas, and along walls.
• Gnaw marks: Rodents leave light-colored gnaw marks that become more pronounced over time. These marks can be found on various surfaces, such as wood or plastic.
• Nests: Rodents use shredded paper, fabric, or dried plant matter to make their nests. Keep an eye out for hidden nests, usually close to sources of food and water.
• Scratching noises: If you hear scratching noises, especially at night, it could indicate the presence of rodents in your home.
• Urine pools and ammonia odor: The presence of urine pools and a strong ammonia odor can be a telltale sign of a rodent infestation.
• Grease marks: Rodents tend to follow the same route for feeding, leaving grease marks on walls due to the dirt and oils on their fur.
• Scurrying noises: If you hear quick scurrying noises, there's a good chance that rodents are active in your home.

By following these steps and being aware of signs of rodent infestation, you can effectively address rodent issues and create a pest-free environment in your home. Remember, prevention is key in keeping these pesky pests at bay. Take action today and reclaim your home from rodents!