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Mice in the Kitchen or Pantry? What to Do First
Mice come to the kitchen for the same reason we do. Food, water, and a warm place to be. Here is what to do first.
How do you protect your food?
These tips come from the CDC:
Keep food in thick plastic, metal, or glass containers with tight lids
Clean up spills right away
Wash dishes and cooking tools soon after you use them
Put pet food away after use, and do not leave bowls out overnight
Keep indoor trash in containers with tight lids
Where do you set mouse traps?
K-State says to set traps behind objects, in dark corners, and along walls, so mice run right over the trigger. Set the trigger lightly so it springs easily. Use enough traps to make the job quick, spaced about 6 to 8 feet apart where you see signs of mice.
UNL Extension says mice are most active before dawn and after dusk, so check traps in the morning.
What bait works?
Peanut butter is a common choice. A cotton ball tied to the trigger can work too, because mice look for nest material. If anyone in your home has a nut allergy, skip the peanut butter.
MU Extension shares a trick. Leave traps baited but not set until the bait has been taken at least once. That helps with trap-shy mice.
What should you throw away?
Toss any food package that mice chewed. Then clean shelves with household disinfectant while wearing gloves. Do not sweep or vacuum droppings.
Will cleaning and trapping fix it?
It helps, but mice still need a way in. Find and seal the gaps, or new mice can take their place. Our Rodent Exclusion Guide shows where to look.
Quick Answers
What is the best bait for mouse traps?
Peanut butter works well for many people. Dried fruit and cotton balls can work too. Skip peanut butter if there is a nut allergy in the home.
How many traps do I need?
More than you might think. Space them 6 to 10 feet apart in areas where you see signs of mice.
Why do mice keep coming back to my kitchen?
Food, water, and shelter keep drawing them in, and open gaps let them back inside. Sealing the gaps is the key step.
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Learn more about rodent control in Wichita or rodent control in Overland Park.
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