Mice may seem small and harmless, but when they move into your home, they can bring big problems with them. From gnawed wires and contaminated food to the potential spread of disease, a mouse infestation is not something Cleveland homeowners can afford to ignore. Fortunately, with the right prevention strategies and professional control techniques, you can keep your home mouse-free year-round.
At Critter Control of Cleveland, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners deal with unwanted rodents. Here’s what you need to know to prevent mice from invading your home—and what to do if they already have.
How Mice Get In
In Cleveland’s fluctuating climate, mice are constantly searching for warmth and shelter, especially during fall and winter months. Unfortunately, most homes offer plenty of opportunities for these agile rodents to sneak inside. Mice can squeeze through openings as small as a dime, making it easy for them to exploit even the tiniest cracks or gaps. Common access points include foundation cracks, gaps around windows and doors, unsealed vents, or openings where utility lines enter the home. They can also climb rough surfaces and wires, giving them access to upper floors, attics, and chimneys. Once inside, they nest in quiet, dark areas such as basements, wall voids, and behind appliances, often going unnoticed until the population has multiplied significantly.
Signs of a Mouse Infestation
Not sure if you’re dealing with a stray mouse or a serious issue? Watch for these common signs:
-
Droppings in drawers, cabinets, or along walls
-
Scratching or squeaking noises in the walls or ceilings, especially at night
-
Gnaw marks on wires, food packaging, or furniture
-
Nests made from shredded paper or fabric
-
Tracks along walls or behind household furnishings
-
A strong, musky odor from urine and droppings
If you notice any of these, it’s time to take action.
The Risks of Ignoring a Mouse Infestation
Ignoring a mouse problem can quickly lead to serious health and property issues. Mice carry diseases like Salmonella and hantavirus, which can spread through their droppings and urine. They also chew on wires and insulation, increasing the risk of fire and costly repairs. Since mice reproduce rapidly, a small issue can turn into a major infestation in no time.
Prevention Tips for Cleveland Homes
The best way to deal with mice is to stop them before they get in. Here are a few expert-recommended prevention techniques:
Seal Entry Points
Inspect your home’s exterior for cracks, holes, and gaps, and seal them with weather-resistant caulk, steel wool, or metal mesh.
Store Food Properly
Keep all food in airtight containers, and avoid leaving pet food or crumbs out overnight.
Declutter and Clean
Mice love clutter, which provides hiding and nesting spots. Keep storage areas organized and clean up spills or crumbs quickly.
Secure Trash and Compost
Use sealed trash bins and avoid leaving compost piles near your home’s foundation.
Maintain Landscaping
Trim vegetation and keep shrubs away from the house. Overgrown plants can provide cover for rodents near entry points.
Professional Mouse Control: Why DIY Isn’t Enough
While traps and repellents may help temporarily, they often miss the bigger picture—like hidden nests or access points. That’s where Critter Control of Cleveland comes in.
Our Mouse Control Process:
-
Inspection: We identify entry points, nesting areas, and the extent of the infestation.
-
Exclusion: We seal your home to prevent future entry.
-
Removal: We use humane and effective methods to eliminate the current population.
-
Sanitation: We clean contaminated areas and remove health hazards.
-
Monitoring: We install deterrents and monitor for recurring activity.
With decades of experience in Cleveland’s urban and suburban rodent control, our technicians understand the unique challenges local homeowners face.
Call Critter Control of Cleveland Today
If you’ve got a mouse in the house, don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Trust Critter Control of Cleveland for fast, reliable, and humane rodent control. Contact us today to schedule your home inspection and reclaim your peace of mind.