No one wants to think about having a pest problem, especially if you've spotted the telltale signs that you have mice. Not only can mice be a nuisance, they can also cause serious damage to your property by chewing through woodwork, electrical cables, and gas and water pipes.
But why do mice keep coming back after you've tried everything to get rid of them? Experts say that even if you haven't seen any mice yet, there could be food in your kitchen that's luring them without you realizing it. Crumbs on the floor, unopened boxes in the pantry, items left in the trash – these are all rodent magnets. No wonder they keep coming back for more.
Knowing what mice like to eat can help you take precautions and hide food they might eat. It might also help you identify problem areas where mice can get in, in which case you'll need to seal all of their entry points.
Pest control experts say you need to get rid of these foods that attract mice to your kitchen to prevent uninvited guests at night.
1. Grains
If you're in a rush for breakfast in the morning and accidentally spill dry rice on the floor, don't forget to clean it up straight away, as this is a food that rats particularly enjoy.
“Unopened cereal boxes, rice, pasta and other grains are very attractive to mice,” says pest prevention expert John Stewart. Persis Group“These foods are high in carbohydrates and provide mice with a good source of energy.”
To prevent mice from rummaging through unopened packaging, transfer cereals and grains into clear jars or airtight containers and then label the contents. “Foods that don't come in jars or cans are more susceptible to damage from mice and bags or cardboard boxes. Once purchased, it's best to store them in glass or plastic containers labeled with a date.”
To provide you with the best support Organize your pantry Invest in BPA-free airtight food storage containers. LEAVES AND TREES Y Stackable Kitchen Canister Set ($22, Amazon), preventing rodents from entering.
2. Sweets and chocolates
It seems humans aren't the only ones who love to munch on tasty, sweet treats: rats also tend to have a preference for foods high in fat, protein and sugar.
“Rats tend to be attracted to foods that are high in protein, fat and sugar,” says pest control expert Joshua Houston. Home Quotes“These include things like chocolate, butter, lard, sweets and nuts. Store items in the fridge or cupboards to prevent mice from accessing these foods. And if you drop food, clean it up as soon as you can. We often see mice infestations because people spill food and forget to clean it up.”
One of the main reasons rats love these foods is because sugary foods give the pests a quick energy boost. “Rats have a sweet tooth, and if candy or chocolate is available, they'll choose it,” Stewart agrees. “Sugar gives them a quick source of energy, and rats love the sweet taste.” In fact, rats can detect the strong smell of chocolate from a great distance, so it's best to keep your favorite snacks out of the pests' reach.
3. Bread and baked goods
If you love baking fresh bread or making freshly baked goods, Best bread machineYou might want to be careful not to leave any bread crumbs lying around: rats are omnivores and love foods high in carbohydrates. “Breads, cakes, biscuits and other baked goods are big draws for rats,” says Stewart. “These high-carbohydrate foods give them a quick energy boost.”
Again, always store breads and cakes in airtight containers or bread boxes like this Home-it Stainless Steel Bread Box ($29, Amazon), which will prevent mice from easily gaining access to baked goods. “Mice will nibble at food packaging to get to nutritious treats, but they only need three grams of food a day, so keeping your kitchen clean is paramount.”
4. Fruits and vegetables
Similarly, juicy fruits and vegetables provide the sweet taste and hydration that rats crave. “Fresh foods, especially those that have been left out on the counter or improperly stored, provide important vitamins and hydration for rats, especially in dry environments,” agrees Stewart.
If you can't store fruit in the refrigerator, storing it in an airtight container will prevent mice from smelling or getting to it, and be sure to dispose of citrus peels, banana peels, and other organic waste in a compost bin or closed trash can.
“Switch your trash can to a metal container if possible,” advises pest control expert Andrea Phillips. Airtasker“The average adult rat only needs a few grams of food each day to survive, so generations of rats could happily breed around your trash can forever. The cleaner the better – not only to keep rats away, but for the health of you and your family.”
For more tips, check out 5 benefits of compost and how it can enrich your garden and beyond.
5. Pet food
As a pet owner, you'll want to feed your beloved companions regularly, but don't feed rats while you're at it. “Pet food left out or stored unsecured will attract rats,” agrees Stewart. “Pet foods often contain a mix of protein, fat and carbohydrates, providing a balanced food source for rats.”
After use, remove any leftover pet food from bowls and kitchen containers and clean up any spills or stains immediately. Overall, maintain good hygiene and How to clean every room in your house, Top quality vacuum cleaners and regular sweeping and mopping of floors provided.
Foods that mice dislike
Similarly, there are certain foods and smells that repel mice and need to be kept away. “Just like humans, there are some smells that mice absolutely hate, and oddly enough, they're some of the smells we love to use in cooking!” says Phillips. “Spicy smells like garlic, peppermint and cayenne pepper drive mice crazy. They have a very keen sense of smell.”
Or you could try these Plants that deter mice from entering your home. These particular plants are known to have a scent that repels mice.
Of course, if you still think you have a pest problem, it’s best to call a pest control company for the best advice and treatment.
