Methods to Avoid

1. Cats

Sure, a cat may kill a few mice, but even the most ferocious mouse hunter won’t be enough to eliminate an established mouse population.

Plus, mice carry diseases and parasites they can easily pass to domestic pets, so encouraging contact between mice and household cats is never a good idea.

2. “Mouse-repellent” plants

Some sources say that strong-smelling plants like garlic, onions, lavender, daffodils, and mint will keep mice from invading your home or garden.

Unfortunately, there’s no evidence to support that claim!

3. Cheese for baiting traps

While the cartoons would have us believe that mice love cheese, there are many other foods they prefer, including high-aroma foods like bacon, peanut butter, chicken, and nuts.

If you want your traps to catch mice, don’t waste your time baiting them with cheddar. For best results, pay attention to what mice are eating around your home and use that instead.

4. Fabric Softner

While the strong smell of fabric softener sheets might repel mice at first, it will only take a few days for them to get used to the scent.