It is frustrating to deal with mice in your home. So, you might set traps, seal holes, and clean everything in sight to keep them out. However, these rodents might return if they have access to survival items. The warm weather and suburban neighborhoods in Plano offer mice the food and shelter they need. Thankfully, you can stop these pests from returning with the right approach. This means working with Saela Pest Control technicians, who are equipped with the knowledge and tools to handle mice effectively and prevent them from returning.
Why Mice Keep Coming Back
Mice are persistent survivors. They can remember every reliable source of food and shelter they can find. A female mouse can produce dozens of offspring in a year. So they can increase their population in no time.
Mice stay active year-round because of mild winters and abundant food sources in Plano. Homes near fields, parks, or wooded areas are especially vulnerable. Mice can infiltrate homes using a gap under the garage door or a crack near utility lines. They move indoors to nest. They will return to the same spot again and again if you do not have ongoing prevention in place.
Steps to Prevent Mice from Invading Your Home
Here’s what you can do to keep mice out:
- Seal entry points. Mice can squeeze through openings as small as a dime. Walk around your home and inspect areas where utility lines, vents, and pipes enter. Seal cracks in the foundation and around doors or windows with steel wool or caulk. Weatherstripping under doors also helps block access. Also, mice may enter through weep holes in brick walls or gaps in crawl space vents. Mesh screens can help cover these openings without blocking airflow.
- Eliminate food sources. Mice will not stay in your house if they cannot find food. Keep all dry goods like grains, cereal, and pet food in sealed containers. Avoid leaving fruit or bread on countertops overnight. Also, clean crumbs or spills right away. Trash bins should have tight-fitting lids. Ensure outdoor garbage stays as far from the house as possible. Feeding pets outside can also attract rodents, so serve meals indoors or remove leftovers quickly.
- Manage Clutter Indoors and Outdoors. Clutter provides hiding spots and nesting materials for mice. Store boxes off the floor and keep storage areas tidy. Avoid stacking cardboard boxes in the garage or attic, since mice often use cardboard for nests. In addition, trim overgrown shrubs and move firewood at least 20 feet from the house. Piles of leaves, mulch, or wood can serve as perfect shelters for mice. Keep your yard clean and your landscaping trimmed to eliminate hiding places near your foundation.
- Address moisture problems. Mice can get the water they need from leaky pipes, dripping faucets, and condensation in crawl spaces. Fix plumbing leaks and use a dehumidifier in damp areas such as basements or laundry rooms.
- Keep an eye on the garage and attic. Garages and attics offer warmth, shelter, and plenty of hiding places for mice. Mice can build nests here without being noticed for weeks due to less food traffic. Check garage corners, stored boxes, and behind tools or appliances for droppings or shredded material. Also, look for gnawed insulation or chewed wiring in the attic. Seal openings around garage doors and attic vents to block new intrusions.
- Ensure regular cleaning. Mice are drawn to areas where they can find food and nesting material. Regular cleaning removes these attractions. Vacuum floors and sweep behind appliances. Also, keep kitchen surfaces free of crumbs. Wipe shelves in the pantry often and check for signs of rodent activity,a such as gnawed packaging or droppings. A clean home discourages mice and helps you spot signs of trouble early.
