How to Get Rid of Mice in a Garage
Mice are small, resourceful creatures that can find their way into the most unexpected places and garages often provide the perfect environment. In this article, you will find out why mouse-proofing a garage is so important and how to keep them out more effectively (and humanely).
Garages typically have various entry points, such as gaps around doors and windows, that are easily accessible to mice. Additionally, garages often contain items like birdseed, pet food, and other edible materials that mice find irresistible. By identifying and addressing these attractants, you are ready for the first stage of mouse-proofing a garage to help reduce the likelihood of a mouse infestation.
Clean and Declutter Your Garage: The First Step to Mouse-proofing a Garage
A clean and organised garage is less attractive to mice. Begin by thoroughly cleaning your garage, paying special attention to removing any potential nesting materials such as cardboard, paper, and fabric. Decluttering your space will not only make it less appealing to mice but also help you spot signs of an infestation more easily.
Invest in sturdy storage solutions, such as plastic bins with tight-fitting lids, to store items that might attract mice. Shelving units can keep belongings off the floor, making it harder for mice to access them. Regular cleaning and organisation are key to mouse-proofing a garage successfully. If you have any excessive equipment or tools you’d like to keep safe but out of the way, consider renting a storage unit. You’d be surprised how a 40 sq ft storage unit can transform your home!
Remove Food and Water Sources
Eliminating food and water sources is crucial in deterring mice from taking up residence in your garage. Store all pet food, birdseed, and other edible items in sealed containers. This not only keeps the food fresh but also makes it inaccessible to mice.
Ensure there are no leaks or standing water in your garage, as mice need water to survive. Regularly clean up any crumbs or spills, and avoid leaving food out overnight. By making your garage less hospitable, you’ll discourage mice from settling in. Again we can see how important cleanliness is for successfully mouse-proofing a garage.
Seal Entry Points
![Caulk to seal garage door | Pest Control](https://www.spacecentreselfstorage.co.uk/app/uploads/2024/06/SCSS-Mouse-proofing-sealing-a-crack-in-a-garage-wall-using-caulk-1024x585.webp)
Sealing potential entry points is one of the most effective ways of mouse-proofing a garage. Inspect your garage for any cracks, holes, or gaps, particularly around doors, windows, and the foundation. Use materials such as steel wool, caulk, and weather stripping to close off these entry points.
Pay special attention to the garage door, as this is a common entry point for mice. Ensure the door seals tightly when closed, and consider adding a rubber seal at the bottom to prevent mice from squeezing through. Regularly inspect and maintain these seals to keep them effective.
Use Humane Traps When Mouse-proofing a Garage
If you already have mice in your garage, humane traps are a considerate way to deal with the problem. There are various types of humane traps available, such as catch-and-release traps, which allow you to capture mice without harming them. Place these traps along walls and in areas where you have noticed mouse activity.
Once you’ve caught a mouse, release it far away from your home to prevent it from returning. Check the traps regularly and relocate any captured mice promptly. Using humane traps is not only effective but also ethical, ensuring you deal with the problem responsibly.
Employ Natural Deterrents
Natural deterrents can be a great way to keep mice at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals. Peppermint oil is a popular choice, as mice find the strong scent overwhelming. Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them around the garage, focusing on entry points and areas where mice are likely to travel.
Other natural deterrents include mothballs and ultrasonic devices, which emit sounds that are unpleasant to mice but inaudible to humans. While these methods can be effective, it’s essential to combine them with other preventive measures for the best results.
Professional Help for Mouse-proofing a Garage
In some cases, a mouse infestation may be too severe to handle on your own. If you’ve tried various methods for mouse-proofing a garage without success, it may be time to call in professional pest control experts. Professionals have the experience and tools necessary to deal with large infestations more effectively.
Professional pest control services can also provide advice on preventing future infestations, helping you maintain a mouse-free garage in the long term. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed, as it can save you time and effort while ensuring the problem is thoroughly resolved.
Final Thoughts on Mouse-proofing a Garage from Space Centre Self Storage
Keeping your garage mouse-free requires a combination of cleanliness, organisation, and preventive measures. By understanding what attracts mice and taking steps to eliminate these factors, you can create an environment that is inhospitable to these unwanted guests. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key to mouse-proofing a garage of any size.
For more expert tips on home maintenance and pest control, read our weekly blog. If you’ve had success with mouse-proofing a garage or have any questions, share your experiences in the comments below. Visit our website for prices and sizes of our storage units, ideal for household belongings and much more!