Old-fashioned trick mice and rats 'absolutely hate' to keep them out of your home
Mothballs are a cheap and effective way to keep mice and rats out of your home, but there are some things you need to know before you start using them
Battling with a mouse or rodent infestation is an age-old problem, and while there are numerous solutions available, none seem to be as effective as this one.
Methods for eliminating mice and rats from your home can range from using essential oils like peppermint oil, to employing pesticides, glue boards and even mouse traps. However, according to EarthKind, mothballs have repeatedly proven to be an effective repellent for homeowners.
How it works
The basic concept is that by placing these balls at the entry points of your home, or in those specific areas where you often find nesting materials, the powerful sense of smell of mice will be overwhelmed by the scent, causing them to vacate the area.
One of the main reasons people keep returning to mothballs for their mouse issues is because they're cost-effective and readily available, sold in most shops. It's worth mentioning though, that just a few won't suffice; to consistently deter unwanted visitors, you need to use large quantities in the same areas, reports the Express.
Furthermore, they remain a popular method due to their non-toxic approach to saying goodbye to rodents, without actually causing them harm. The pests are simply deterred by the scent and not tempted to eat them or suffer any health problems as a result.
Downfalls of Mothballs
While they may be harmless to pests, mothballs can pose a threat to humans as they contain harmful chemicals such as naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, according to the site. A CDC study has linked naphthalene to a number of illnesses after being inhaled by humans, along with paradichlorobenzene, which has been shown to cause a number of issues.
These side effects can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, and headaches.
Infestations aren't strictly confined to indoors; they can also infiltrate our gardens, where mothballs are less effective. If left outside, they may dissolve in the rain or even be swept away by a gust of wind, and not to mention, cause damage to your plants, so it's best to maintain indoor use only.
If you want to deter rats and mice from entering your home in the first place, you should maintain a clean environment to eliminate any possibility of nesting materials cluttering in garages, attics and basements. Avoid storing items like pet food and birdseed in any container that isn't sealed and leaving piles of paper, fabric or cardboard out and about for them to snap up and build nests.
When it comes to your garden, it's crucial to manage your plants and greenery by pruning them back and ensuring nothing touches the house. It's also advised that any firewood be kept at least 20 feet away from the house and off the ground, whilst maintaining clean gutters and keeping compost bins sealed.
Why we need to eliminate rodents
Rodents such as mice and rats are notorious for carrying diseases and subsequently spreading them - from salmonella to hantavirus - so it's essential we keep them away from our homes. Their droppings and dander pose a significant health risk and can trigger conditions like asthma and other allergies.
Naturally, they can also cause damage to both the exterior and interior of your home, as they have a tendency to gnaw on wood, electrical wiring and insulation. If not addressed promptly, a minor issue can rapidly escalate into a major one within weeks.