Rats and mice are at the top of the list of troublesome pests that you’d want to steer clear of. Unfortunately, they have a talent for invading homes and gardens, particularly during the colder winter months.
As the temperatures drop, these rodents seek out cosy spots to spend the winter, and even well-sealed homes aren’t immune to their intrusion. They can find entry points in places like wall cladding, foundations, garages, chimneys, or gutters.
Finding droppings is a telltale sign that you’ve got some unwelcome visitors. While a single rat or mouse might not seem too concerning, they pose various risks by carrying diseases, disturbing pets, and potentially gnawing through wires in your home or vehicle, reports the Express.
Pest control specialists at TomCat suggest one of the “best, most natural ways to get rid of rats and mice” is to encourage them to leave voluntarily. This involves exploiting their powerful sense of smell by introducing odours they find repulsive.
Despite their ability to sniff out food and garbage, there are certain scents “they really can’t stand”. The experts assert that mice and rats “absolutely detest the smell of peppermint”.
Using cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil or dried mint sachets can effectively deter them. Simply place these peppermint-infused items in areas of concern, refreshing them regularly for a more enduring solution.
Pest Line experts have suggested peppermint oil as an effective natural deterrent for rodents. They said: “Peppermint oil is a great natural way to get rid of mice and rats. You can use peppermint oil to drive them far away.”
To utilise this method, they advise placing oil-dabbed cotton balls around the affected area. They added: “The oil will dissipate into the cotton easily, so make sure to reapply the oil to the cotton balls a couple of times a week.
“This oil is safe for pets and humans, just be sure to select the oil that specifies it is 100% pure. This method also works outdoors as well as indoors.”