My House Is Clean, So Why Do I Have Mice?

It's Not Just About Cleanliness

First, let's debunk a common misconception. Having mice doesn't necessarily mean your home is dirty. Mice look for three key things:

• Food.
• Water.
• Shelter.

Even the cleanest home can unintentionally provide these comforts.

Hidden Rodent Entry Points

Mice can squeeze through incredibly small spaces—about the size of a dime.

These often-obscure entry points can invite mice indoors:

• Tiny cracks in your home's foundation.
• Gaps around windows or doors.
• Openings around plumbing or wiring.
• Small gaps in ceilings or walls that can provide mice access to your attic.

Regularly inspect and seal any potential entry points with materials like expanding foam sealant, steel wool, caulk, or weather stripping to help keep rodents outside.

Clutter Creates Comfort for Mice

You may clean diligently, but what about clutter? Boxes stored in basements, piles of clothes in closets, or stacks of unused items in the garage offer mice cozy nesting spots.

Organize storage areas and reduce clutter to eliminate these attractive hideouts.

Water Sources You May Overlook

Your house is spotless, but is it dry? Dripping faucets, leaking pipes, or even high humidity can provide mice with enough water to survive.

Routinely inspect plumbing, fix leaks promptly, and use dehumidifiers in damp spaces like basements to discourage mice.

Rodent Food Sources Beyond Crumbs

You sweep, mop, and sanitize countertops, but mice aren't picky eaters. They can survive on pet food, birdseed, or even unopened pantry items.

Store pet food in sealed containers, elevate bird feeders away from the house, and regularly check pantry goods for any signs of gnawing.

Nearby Outdoor Attractions

If your home exterior offers easy access, mice are more likely to venture indoors. Overgrown shrubs, woodpiles stacked close to the house, and open compost bins all attract rodents.

Keep landscaping trimmed, store firewood at least 20 feet from your home, and use enclosed compost bins.

Time to Call in Professionals?

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, mice persist. This could mean hidden infestations or structural vulnerabilities you haven't spotted yet. In such cases, contacting a pest control professional can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.

Keeping Mice Out For Good

Cleanliness helps, but vigilance seals the deal. Regularly inspect and maintain your home, remove clutter, fix leaks, seal entry points, and secure potential food sources. Hire a professional to get rid of mice and prevent their return when necessary.

By understanding that cleanliness alone won't always deter mice, you'll be better prepared to keep your home rodent-free.