Does Boric Acid Kill Mice? How to Prevent Mice in Apartments? Discover their answers and more in this short yet informative article!
Boric acid is a versatile chemical compound that has gained popularity for its wide range of uses. It’s a white, odorless powder derived from boron, a naturally occurring element. Boric acid is commonly used as an insecticide and a flame retardant, but Does Boric Acid Kill MiceI? Let’s find out below.
Learn how to get rid of rats with black pepper here
Does Boric Acid Kill Mice?
Boric acid doesn’t kill mice. However, research conducted in controlled laboratory settings has revealed that boric acid does have a significant impact on the reproductive system of pregnant mice. Exposure to boric acid during pregnancy results in malformations and even the death of mice’s neonates and fetuses.
Does Boric Acid Keep Mice Away?
No, boric acid doesn’t keep mice away. If you want to repel this pesky creature from your house, use the below natural home remedies. Also, follow the preventive measures to inhibit mice entrance in the first place.
Natural Ways to Keep Mice Away
Here are some of the best ways to get rid of mice without using any chemical-filled products!
- Tea Bags – Peppermint tea bags are a great product to keep mice far away from your living space. If you want to use this hack, check out this article.
- Peppermint Oil – Besides peppermint tea bags, peppermint oil is also the best way to deter mice. It’s effective because of its strong scent. Add some drops of peppermint oil on the cotton pads and place them on the mice frequently visiting areas.
- Garlic Powder – Sprinkle the garlic powder on the house’s and patio’s entrances to repel the rodents from your house.
- Clove Oil – Take some small bowls half-filled with clove oil and put them around the mice hiding place in your house. Its strong smell will force the rodent to run away.
How to Prevent Mice in Apartment?
Here are some effective measures to help prevent mice infestations in the apartment:
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your space for any gaps, cracks, or holes in walls, floors, and windows. Use sealants or silicone caulk to close these entry points, as mice can squeeze through even small openings.
- Proper Food Storage: Store food in airtight containers to stop mice from accessing your food supplies. Avoid leaving open food or crumbs on countertops, and clean up spills promptly.
- Regular Cleaning: Maintain cleanliness in your apartment, particularly in the kitchen and dining areas. Sweep and vacuum regularly, dispose of garbage properly, and ensure no food residue is left behind.
- Secure Trash Bins: Use sturdy trash cans with tightly fitting lids. Regularly empty and clean the bins.
- Remove Clutter: Declutter your living space to eliminate potential hiding spots for mice. Pay attention to storage areas, closets, and basements, and keep them organized and tidy.
- Properly Maintain the Exterior: Trim vegetation and shrubs around the building to limit hiding places for mice. Ensure that any exterior openings, such as vents or utility entry points, are properly screened.
- Use Mouse Traps: Set up mouse traps strategically in areas where mice are commonly seen or suspected. Opt for snap traps or catch-and-release traps, depending on your preference.
Important Safety Precautions
When using home remedies to repel mice, follow these safety precautions:
- Keep out of Reach of Children and Pets: Store all repellents, whether natural or commercial, out of reach of kids and pets.
- Use Protective Gear: When handling or applying remedies, wear gloves, masks, and protective clothing to minimize direct contact.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in the area where you are applying home remedies. Open windows or use fans to maintain airflow, especially when using substances with strong odors.
- Follow Disposal Guidelines: Dispose of any used materials or remnants according to local waste disposal guidelines. Some substances may require specific disposal methods to ensure environmental safety.
- Monitor for Allergic Reactions: If you or anyone in your household has known allergies or sensitivities, be cautious when using home remedies.
When to Contact a Professional?
If you are dealing with a persistent mouse problem, consider contacting a professional pest control service. They assess the situation, provide effective treatment options, and offer ongoing monitoring and prevention strategies.
My mom used to mix boric powder with flour and milk and make a dough which would be rolled into little balls. This she would place around the kitchen. The rats would eat these and soon the boric powder would cause discomfort to the rats which would die. This would ensure a rat free kitchen.