Keep rats and mice away from your home with these natural items they hate

A rat on a lawn in a garden
-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)


Rats and mice, with their poor vision, rely heavily on their keen sense of smell for survival. To deter these pests, strong scents that can "overpower" their olfactory senses are necessary.

Pest control specialists at Eliminated LTD have revealed a list of odours that are anathema to rats and mice, ensuring they "stay away". For example, lavender is particularly disliked by mice and rats, so using lavender-scented sprays or growing the plant can naturally keep them at bay. Here are four natural ingredients to keep rats and mice away

Lavender

For a homemade repellent, mix a quarter to half a cup of lavender flowers with one-quarter cup of water in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use and apply to surfaces in affected areas until moist but not soaking. Refresh this solution monthly to maintain its efficacy in repelling mice, reports the Express.

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Citrus oil

Citrus oil is another scent loathed by these rodents due to limonene, a component found in lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. This chemical, prevalent in many cleaning products like soaps, detergents, and disinfectants, is responsible for their fresh, clean aroma. Citrus oils such as lemon and orange are also "very effective at keeping rats and mice away" from specific areas or items.

Citrus oils are potent and should be used with caution; it's advisable to dilute them with water before applying to any surfaces or objects that require treatment.

Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil is hailed as "effective" in deterring rats and mice, who find the menthol scent off-putting. The aroma of peppermint oil triggers associations of danger and fear in these rodents, prompting them to "avoid areas" where the oil is present or to "stay away from it" as much as they can.

This essential oil is a popular choice for creating DIY mouse repellents due to its strong smell, which is effective at keeping mice at bay. To use, simply apply a few drops on cotton balls and place them in spots where mice are known to lurk.

Chilli powder

Chilli powder serves as another excellent ingredient for homemade rat repellents because it's "inexpensive and easy to obtain at most grocery stores". Mix approximately two tablespoons of chilli powder per litre of water, then transfer the solution into a spray bottle or hand sanitiser container.

Experts have clarified: "This is an effective home remedy for getting rid of mice because it smells terrible to them and they won't stay around long enough for their sense of smell to become accustomed to it."

To use chilli powder as a deterrent, sprinkle it in areas where mouse activity is suspected, such as behind cupboards or beneath furniture.