10 Proven Methods to Keep Mice Out of Your Kitchen -I’ve Tried Them!

Mice in the kitchen? Yeah, been there. As the unofficial handyman of the house and a dad constantly trying to keep the place in check, I’ve had my battles with these sneaky little intruders. Let me tell you, nothing kicks you into high gear like spotting a mouse near your morning coffee!

Over the years, I’ve figured out some pretty effective ways to keep them out without going overboard. I’m here to share these tips so you can enjoy a mouse-free kitchen just like we do now.

Here are 10 simple, yet genius ways to block those critters out for good.

Seal the Doors

One simple yet effective thing I did was install door sweeps on our kitchen doors. These aren’t just good for keeping drafts out; they block mice from sneaking in under the door. Whether it’s a brush or rubber type, adding a sweep creates a physical barrier that mice find tough to bypass.

Keep a Clean Yard

I learned that the cleaner your outdoor areas, the less attractive they are to mice looking for a cozy spot. Keeping the yard free of debris, like fallen branches and leaf piles, and trimming back plants around the house really helps minimize potential shelters for mice. Also, make sure your compost bins and trash cans have tight-fitting lids.

Get Rid of Potential Hideouts

When I found a mouse had turned my wife’s favorite oven mitt into a cozy getaway, it was an eye-opener. I had to rethink where we kept anything soft—oven mitts, dish towels, even spare rags. These items were just mouse magnets when left out. Now, I store them in drawers or covered bins, and honestly, it’s made a huge difference.

Get a Cat

Who knew that getting a cat could be a strategic move? Well, it is! Our cat has become the best natural defense against mice. These little critters don’t want to hang around when there’s a predator in the house. Plus, the kids love the cat so now I’m their favorite person -that’s a win-win, fellas.

Natural Deterrents

I’ve found that sometimes the simplest solutions are the best, especially when you want to avoid harsh methods. Natural repellents can be incredibly effective at keeping mice away.

I use cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil and place them in the usual mouse hangouts, like along the baseboards. The strong smell is a big turn-off for them.

Another hack? Sprinkle some cayenne pepper in those areas.

Fortify Your Home

As much as I tackle problems inside the house, I’ve learned that prevention starts on the outside. Before the chill sets in, I make it a point to inspect the exterior of our home for any cracks or holes. Sealing these with caulk, weather stripping, or even steel wool keeps those pesky mice from making their way inside.

If you aren’t sure about potential entry points or how to block them out, it might be worth getting a professional to take a look.

Clean Up Every Night

After learning the hard way that a simple broom might not cut it, I’ve upgraded to using a Swiffer and occasionally a mop for our kitchen floors every night. Why? Because even the smallest crumbs you can’t see can be a feast for mice. It’s about getting into those nooks and crannies where sticky spills might have gone unnoticed.

Set Traps

Dealing with mice can feel like an ongoing battle, but snap traps have been a game-changer in our home. They’re straightforward to use and inexpensive. I bait them with a mix of cheese or peanut butter—mice can’t resist it.

The key is placing them in those out-of-the-way spots where mice lurk, like behind the fridge or in the back of a cupboard, always keeping them out of reach of our little ones and our dog.

Store Food Securely

Keeping your kitchen free from mice starts with how you handle food. As someone who’s had to figure this out the hard way, trust me, mice are opportunists that thrive on your leftovers and spills.

To cut off their supply, I make sure everything from rice to cereal is in airtight containers. It’s also important to sweep up those crumbs and keep pet food tucked away after dinner.

Get a Good Trash Can

Let’s talk trash—your trash can is like a dinner bell for mice if it’s not secured properly. I learned from a pro that a trash can with a tight-fitting lid is your first line of defense against these critters. Plus, getting into the routine of taking the trash out nightly not only helps with mice but also keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.