If you’ve ever dealt with a mouse problem inside your home or business, you know how frustrating they can be. In addition to being downright gross, mice spread filth and disease everywhere they go—not to mention the foul odors and droppings. If you’ve spotted a mouse or two in your home, it’s important to take action quickly. Mice reproduce at an alarming rate. Traps are a classic way to tackle rodent infestations, but many people make mistakes when setting mousetraps. Read on to learn expert tips from the mice exterminators at Ehrlich Pest Control.
Mousetraps That Work the Best
Picking the best mousetrap can be overwhelming, with electronic, catch-and-release, and glue traps all in stores. Most mousetraps have benefits and disadvantages. Perhaps the most common and popular type of mousetrap is the spring-loaded mousetrap. This classic design has been used for centuries to catch mice. When set up properly, mousetraps can be very effective!
Spring-loaded mousetraps are placed in areas of suspected rodent activity with bait. When the spring mechanism is triggered, the metal bar will snap and effectively catch the mouse.
Setting a Mousetrap Properly
There are many common mistakes made when setting a mousetrap. We’ve outlined the top ones to avoid below:
- Not wearing gloves. If mice can smell human scent on the traps, they will avoid them at all cost. Always wear gloves when setting traps!
- Not using the right bait, or using too much bait. Contrary to popular belief, not all mice like cheese. When setting a trap, only use a small amount of bait to encourage the mice to reach into the stand and trigger the mechanism.
- Starting with loaded traps. It may seem counter-intuitive but start with unloaded, baited traps. This will lure mice into a false sense of security in the traps.
- Not using multiple traps from the get-go. Always set more than one trap, placed two or three feet apart each. You will have a better chance at catching as many mice as possible at once.
- Not setting mousetraps strategically. Always set mousetraps along walls and behind furniture, or wherever you suspect activity.
- Not checking traps regularly. It’s important to keep an eye on your traps. Check to make sure the traps are loaded correctly with bait, as some mice will grab bait without setting off the trap.
What to Do When Mousetraps Don’t Work
Mousetraps have worked for decades, but that doesn’t mean they will always work to get rid of mice completely. With serious rodent infestations, it’s always smart to consult a professional mice exterminator. At Ehrlich Pest Control, we have the years of experience needed to implement the best rodent control methods. To learn more about properly setting a mousetrap or to set up an inspection, give our team a call today!