When the temperature drops, you’re not the only one looking for warmth and shelter. Mice and rats see your cozy home as the ultimate winter getaway — complete with heat, food, and plenty of hiding spots. Unfortunately, once they’re in, they don’t check out easily.
Before you end up sharing your space with uninvited furry freeloaders, here are some simple steps to help keep rodents out this winter:
Seal the Gaps — Even the Tiny Ones
Mice can squeeze through an opening as small as a dime, and rats can make it through something the size of a quarter. Check around doors, windows, utility lines, vents, and your home’s foundation for gaps or cracks.
Use steel wool, caulk, or weather stripping to seal them up — and don’t forget garage doors and basement windows.
Tidy Up the Kitchen Buffet
Rodents are always on the hunt for an easy meal. Keep food stored in sealed containers, clean up crumbs and spills quickly, and don’t leave pet food out overnight. Empty your trash regularly and make sure the lid fits tightly.
Declutter and De-Stress Your Storage
Cardboard boxes, cluttered basements, and messy attics are basically rodent hotels. Store items in plastic bins with tight-fitting lids, and keep areas organized so you can easily spot any droppings or chew marks early.
Mind the Firewood and Foliage
Keep firewood and yard debris at least 20 feet away from your home. Overgrown shrubs or vines can act like highways for rodents to reach your roof or attic, so trim them back before the cold sets in.
Check Attics and Crawl Spaces
These areas stay warm and hidden — perfect nesting spots. Inspect them a few times throughout winter for signs of gnawing, droppings, or shredded insulation. Catching an early sign can save a big headache later.
Call in the Pros Before It’s Too Late
Even with the best prevention, rodents are crafty. If you hear scratching in the walls or find droppings, it’s time to call your local pest control experts. Barnes Exterminating’s technicians can inspect, seal, and protect your home before mice and rats settle in for the season.
