Regardless of where you are, you’d know that rats and mice are one of the most unwanted guests for homeowners. Besides terrorising the residents, these pesky creatures can also cause extensive damage to your property and carry serious diseases. 

While it’s understandable to freak out and call your local pest control, you must also determine where they’re more likely to hide and how to prevent an infestation. That way, you can take proactive measures. 

This article will enumerate six household items that lure these pests to your property. We’ll also discuss ways to keep them out of your home. 

1. Cluttered Objects

Rats and mice hide in places with lots of stuff like attics, garages, sheds, and basements because they can find food and hide from predators like cats. Clutter can allow rodents to build their nests. If you notice a large pile of papers and their edges with bite marks, rodents may have already taken the materials from your room to use them in their nests. 

You can prevent them from nesting in your home by calling pest control and regularly cleaning your house of clutter. 

2. Food 

Rats and mice are resourceful animals that will feast on any food source they can find. These clever but pesky creatures scavenge through trash bins or look for food scraps on kitchen counters to satisfy their hunger. 

Outdoor rodents feed on plants, nuts, seeds, and grains. They’ll find rice, oats, and cereal stored in thin plastic covers or boxes when they enter your home. They may also eat your pet’s leftover food. Moreover, they may switch to a diet that requires them to eat insects, meat scraps, and even smaller rodents. 

3. Pet Waste and Open Trash Bins 

Rats love all kinds of food, including those that a domesticated animal has already consumed. They also love open trash bins because it’s like giving them a free meal. You can drive them away from your yard by promptly cleaning up any pet waste. Pest control companies also recommend you spray water on the odorous patches of grass to reduce the scent that attracts rodents. 

You can keep rats out of your property by securely sealing all the trash bins and dumpsters close to your home. You should also regularly empty the trash bins inside your home because it will help keep rodents away. Moreover, periodically cleaning trash bins can significantly reduce the risk of a rat infestation.

4. Vegetation

Plants and fruit trees in your property and yard can attract rodents, who will feed on them and use the materials to build nests. Tall trees with long branches may also serve as an entry point for rats and mice.

5. Warm Shelters 

Rodents want a warm and cosy place, especially during the colder months. This environment helps them keep their offspring safe as they’re born and raised. They significantly love human homes because of the heating systems and fireplaces. When they enter and try to build a nest near these appliances, it can damage the devices or cause them to short-circuit. 

6. Water Sources

While you may not think much about the small leaks in your water pipes, they can attract rodents to your house. You can prevent rats and mice from settling in your home’s plumbing system by frequently replacing the water inside your pet bowls, birdbaths, and other containers with a consistent water supply. 

How to Keep Rodents Out 

Besides calling local pest control, you can keep rats and mice out of your home by sealing all entry points, storing food properly, and setting up baits and traps. You should also let a professional inspect your house for holes and gaps.

The Takeaway 

Rodents bring collateral damage, terror, and disease to any property. Fortunately, you can prevent an infestation by taking proactive preventive measures and working with a professional pest control company. 

Roach Busters has been offering professional pest control in Sydney since 2000. We’re committed to providing excellent services and upholding high-quality working standards. Contact us now, and let’s help you enjoy a rodent-free home!