How to Keep Rodents Out of Your Home This Winter
As temperatures drop, rodents like mice and rats start looking for warm, sheltered places to nest—and your home could be their next stop. Rodents can cause serious damage by chewing through wires, contaminating food, and spreading diseases. Here’s how to keep these pests out of your home this winter and ensure a safe, rodent-free season with the help of Quest Termite and Pest.
1. Seal Entry Points
Rodents can squeeze through tiny gaps around windows, doors, and even vents. Sealing entry points is the first and most effective step in keeping them out.
Check for Gaps: Inspect your home’s foundation, doors, and windows for any cracks or openings.
Use Steel Wool: For small holes, seal them with steel wool or caulking; rodents can chew through many materials but struggle with steel wool.
Install Door Sweeps: Prevent entry through door gaps with sweeps or weather-stripping.
2. Keep Food Stored Securely
Rodents are drawn to food sources, so minimizing accessible food will help deter them from coming indoors.
Store Food in Sealed Containers: Rodents can chew through plastic and cardboard, so opt for glass or metal containers.
Clean Up Crumbs: Regularly wipe down kitchen counters, sweep floors, and clean under appliances.
Limit Pet Food Access: Avoid leaving pet food out overnight, as it’s a common attraction for rodents.
3. Reduce Clutter in Storage Areas
Rodents love hiding in cluttered spaces. Keeping your storage areas organized reduces the number of hiding spots available to them.
Organize Your Garage and Basement: Use storage bins and keep boxes off the floor.
Clear Out Attics and Sheds: These areas are prime nesting spots for rodents during the winter.
Trim Back Vegetation: Outside, trim plants or shrubs touching your home, as they create pathways for rodents to enter.
4. Set Traps and Use Deterrents
Rodent traps and natural deterrents can keep rodents from entering your home.
Place Traps Strategically: Set traps near possible entry points or in areas where you’ve noticed droppings.
Natural Deterrents: Peppermint oil and vinegar are common deterrents that can discourage rodents.
Professional-Grade Products: If DIY traps aren’t effective, Quest Termite and Pest offers safe, professional-grade solutions.
5. Schedule a Professional Rodent Inspection
If you’ve seen signs of rodents or want to ensure your home is protected, a professional inspection can make all the difference. Quest Termite and Pest can help identify entry points, assess infestation levels, and provide a long-term solution to keep your home rodent-free all winter.
Why Choose Quest Termite and Pest for Rodent Control?
At Quest Termite and Pest, we understand the challenges that winter brings for homeowners in keeping rodents at bay. Our expert team can inspect, treat, and prevent infestations with customized plans tailored to your home. We serve Anaheim, Irvine, Santa Ana, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and all surrounding areas in Orange County. Don’t wait until you hear the tell-tale scratching in the walls—protect your home with our professional rodent control services.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if I have a rodent problem?
Signs include droppings, chewed wires or furniture, nesting materials, and unusual noises in walls or attics.
2. What are the dangers of a rodent infestation?
Rodents can carry diseases, damage electrical wiring, and contaminate food sources, creating health risks for your family.
3. How often should rodent control treatments be scheduled?
For ongoing protection, bi-monthly or quarterly treatments are ideal. However, a single inspection can provide a tailored plan for your home.
Protect Your Home from Rodents This Winter!
Don’t let rodents make themselves at home this winter. Quest Termite and Pest offers comprehensive rodent control services to keep your home safe and comfortable. Call us at (714) 929-9838 to schedule an inspection and keep your home pest-free all season long.