There’s no denying rodents like mice and rats can wreak discomfort and havoc on a home. Many homeowners turn to natural pest control remedies such as essential oils. But how effective are these aromatic remedies at keeping pests at bay? Are they any good for rodent control in Bay area, and will they help you rid your attic of an infestation? Keep reading to find out.
How to Know if You Have a Rodent Infestation
Before you start any type of pest control, you should ensure you have a rodent problem. Check for the following signs:
- Mouse droppings
- Gnaw marks
- Scratching noises
- Distinctive rodent scent
- Damaged food packages
- Rat and mice droppings and urine
- Mouse nests are hidden in secluded areas like your attic and crawl space.
If you see or hear any of these signs, it might be time to consider a rodent repellent. A professional rodent removal and prevention service is also highly recommended if the rodent signs indicate a severe infestation.
How Effective are Essential Oils at Repelling Rodents
Essential oils have long been used as a natural rodent repellent due to their pungent aroma. Rodents, particularly mice, have a keen sense of smell and find the scent of these oils disagreeable. This makes essential oils effective at keeping mice away and deterring them from returning.
Some essential oils, like peppermint oil, are considered one of the best scents to repel rodents. Remember, however, that essential oils alone might not wholly eliminate mice if an infestation is already advanced. They may work at keeping the pests away from specific areas, but this won’t stop a large infestation from exploring and damaging other areas of your property.
Essential Oil Rodent Repellants
Various essential oils can be used to deter rodents. Here are some of the most effective ones:
Peppermint Spray
Peppermint essential oil is a popular choice for natural mouse repellents. Its strong smell is distasteful to mice, helping to keep them away from your home.
How to Use Peppermint Spray
Add a few drops of oil to a spray bottle filled with water and spray it around areas where mice frequent. Be sure to treat the baseboards, inside closets, and the hidden corners of your home.
Cloves
Cloves also emit a strong smell that mice dislike.
How to Use Cloves to Repel Rodents
Cloves can be used whole or in oil form. Simply place whole cloves in areas where mice have been spotted. If you’re using clove oil, dilute it with water and spray the solution in the problem areas.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon, like cloves and peppermint, is another scent that can help repel mice.
How to Use Cinnamon as a Rodent Repellent
Cinnamon sticks can be placed in areas of activity, or cinnamon oil can be diluted with water and sprayed around your home.
Chilli Pepper and Tobasco Sauce
Both of these ingredients are potent and can deter mice with their strong scents. They can be mixed with water and sprayed in areas where you’ve noticed rodent activity.
Make Your Own Essential Oil Rodent Deterrent
You’ll need a cup of water and about 20 drops of essential oil to make an oil spray. Simply mix them together in a spray bottle and shake well before use.
The Downsides of DIY Rodent Repellents
While essential oils and other natural remedies can effectively repel rodents, they are not without their downsides.
Some Natural Repellants Can Harm Pets
Certain essential oils and home remedies can be harmful or irritating to pets, including:
- Mothballs: While mothballs can deter rodents, they are toxic if ingested by pets. Their pungent smell can also be a nuisance inside your home.
- Ammonia: Ammonia mimics the scent of predators’ urine, which can deter mice. However, it is harmful if ingested or inhaled in significant quantities by both humans and pets.
Why Do Mice Keep Coming Back?
One of the reasons mice may return even after using repellents is because they have access to food and water in your home. Remember, the presence of rodents is not only about the shelter your home provides but also about easy access to resources.
Even the smallest of crumbs can invite a mouse back into your home. To keep mice away effectively, combine your use of essential oils with good hygiene and food storage practices.
When to Call For Professional Rodent Control Near You
While essential oils can serve as an effective essential oil mouse repellent, they are best used as part of a larger pest management strategy. They can help keep mice away and deter new rodents from entering your home.
However, professional pest control may be necessary for a full-blown rodent infestation. Pest control professionals are equipped with various control methods and have the experience to remove rodents and ensure they don’t come back thoroughly.
