12 Clever Ways to Prevent Rats and Mice from Entering Your House

Dealing with rats and mice in your home can be both upsetting and stressful. These tiny invaders don’t just cause property damage—they also carry germs and diseases that pose serious health risks. Left unchecked, they can quickly take over your space.

The good news? With the right mix of smart prevention and natural deterrents, you can keep rodents out for good. Here are 12 clever and effective ways to prevent rats and mice from entering your house.

1. Baking Soda Trick

If you’ve noticed rodent activity, sprinkle baking soda in those areas. Be sure to keep it out of reach of pets. To protect non-target animals, place the baking soda in a container with a narrow opening.

2. Predator Scents

Use predator-scent repellents available at pet stores. These often come in pellet or liquid form and mimic the smell of animal urine or droppings. Place them around the exterior of your home where rodents might enter.

3. Strategic Trapping

Position snap traps along walls, entry points, and suspected pathways. Bait them with irresistible lures such as cheese, peanut butter, chocolate, or nesting materials like cotton balls or feathers.

4. Peppermint Oil Repellent

Rodents hate the strong scent of peppermint oil. Apply a few drops to cotton balls and place them near entry points or problem areas. Replace every few days and keep out of reach of pets.

5. Plant Peppermint

Growing peppermint plants around your home can act as a natural deterrent. This works best near doors, windows, and foundation areas.

6. Used Cat Litter

Scatter used cat litter outside near potential nesting or entry locations. The scent of cat urine signals danger to rodents and discourages them from coming closer.

7. Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home for holes and cracks. Seal them using copper mesh, steel wool, cement, or plaster of Paris. Even small gaps can allow rodents to squeeze through.

8. Ground Clove Repellent

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