5 Cleaning Hacks that Naturally Repel Mice In NYC

Dammit, Dave! There’s another mouse in here! As I jumped onto the couch, wrapping myself in a blanket like a burrito, I couldn’t help but feel like I was in a scene from a horror movie. It's like something out of a nightmare—here I am, living in the Big Apple, and I’m suddenly sharing my apartment with my own version of Stuart Little. The last thing I want is to have a rodent party while I’m trying to binge-watch my favorite show.

But after some frantic googling (and a light panic attack), I discovered some cleaning hacks that not only kept my home spotless but also acted as natural repellents for our uninvited guests. So sit tight, fellow city dwellers! Here are five cleaning hacks that’ll help you keep the mice away without resorting to harsh chemicals.

1. Peppermint Oil: The Powerful Scent of Repulsion

Oh, the wonders of peppermint oil! This little miracle worker can be your best friend when it comes to mice repellent. Not only does it smell divine, but mice absolutely loathe it. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and spritz it around entry points—think doorframes, windowsills, and even behind appliances. Bonus: your home will smell like a minty wonderland!

Suggestion: Plant Therapy Peppermint Essential Oil for a quality peppermint oil option.

2. Vinegar: The Kitchen Warrior

Vinegar isn’t just for your salads; it’s a powerhouse in cleaning and repelling mice. Whip up a solution of equal parts vinegar and water, and use it to wipe down surfaces in your kitchen and dining areas. Not only does it disinfect your space, but the strong smell of vinegar is enough to send any mouse scurrying for the hills (or, in this case, the subway).

Suggestion: Grab a bottle of Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar for a versatile cleaning tool.

3. Baking Soda & Essential Oils: The Double Threat

Combining baking soda with a few drops of essential oils (like peppermint or eucalyptus) creates a natural pest deterrent while also freshening up your home. Place small bowls of this concoction in corners and hidden spots. Trust me, while you’re scrubbing and cleaning your living space, these mice will be packing their bags and heading for greener pastures.

Suggestion: Stock up on some Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda for this natural repellent.

4. Cinnamon: A Sweet Surprise

Who knew this common spice could double as a mouse repellent? Mice are not fans of cinnamon, and that’s a win for us! Sprinkle some ground cinnamon or place cinnamon sticks in areas where you’ve suspected mouse activity. Not only will it help keep those pesky critters away, but your apartment will have a cozy, inviting scent that’ll make you forget about your little furry “friends.”

Suggestion: Check out McCormick Ground Cinnamon for a reliable option.

Spring Cleaning Tips: Declutter, Refresh, and Revitalize Your Space

Living in NYC, we all know that homes aren't exactly known for their spaciousness. It's like trying to fit a giraffe into a Mini Cooper—sometimes, you just have to make tough decisions! With limited square footage, we often end up accumulating more than we can actually fit. Those shoes you bought on sale because “you’ll totally wear them” but never do? Yeah, it’s time for them to go.

Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to clear out the clutter and transform your space into a cozy, organized haven. So grab a trash bag, a cup of coffee, and let’s get to work! Follow this step-by-step guide to make your spring cleaning efficient and effective.

Step 1: Declutter Your Wardrobe & Toss Out the Junk

Start with your clothes, shoes, and accessories—they take up a surprising amount of space. Ask yourself, "When was the last time I wore this?" If it’s been over a year or you hesitate every time you pull it out, it’s time to let it go.

But decluttering isn’t just about clothes—throw away things you no longer need!

✔ That old bottle of mouthwash that’s been sitting under your cabinet for two years—you wouldn’t dare let it touch your tongue, so why is it still there? Toss it!
✔ Old makeup that’s expired or hasn’t been used in forever—yes, even that lipstick shade you swore you’d wear but never did.
✔ Sneakers that are so worn out they’re practically falling apart—fellas, you’ve had enough good times with them. Let them go. (Pro tip: Throw them away outside just in case you’re tempted to dig them out of the trash.)

To keep your closet organized, arrange items by color, style, or season—or all three! A well-structured closet saves time, reduces stress, and makes getting dressed effortless. Plus, it helps you rediscover forgotten gems.

📌 Pro Tip: Donate gently used items to local shelters or Goodwill—someone else will put them to good use.

Step 2: Organize Your Home

Now that your wardrobe is sorted, it’s time to tackle the rest of your space.

• Living Room: Group like items together—remote controls, books, chargers—so you’re not constantly searching for them.

• Kitchen: Do you really need eight different coffee mugs? Make space for essentials and organize your pantry—expired flour isn’t doing you any favors.

• Entertainment Area: If you have a pile of tangled cables, invest in cable organizers to keep things neat.

An organized home isn’t just visually pleasing—it saves time and reduces stress.

Step 2.5: Put Some Stuff in Storage

If you’re not ready to part with certain items but don’t have the space for them, storage is your best friend. Renting a storage unit or using under-bed storage containers allows you to keep sentimental or seasonal items without cluttering your home.

✔ Creates more living space – A decluttered home feels larger, more open, and more inviting.
✔ Reduces stress and anxiety – Studies show that clutter can increase cortisol levels, making you feel overwhelmed.
✔ Improves focus and productivity – A tidy space helps your mind feel clearer and more in control.
✔ Boosts air quality – Less clutter means less dust, which improves breathing and overall health.
✔ Easier cleaning – The fewer items you have in your way, the faster and more efficient your cleaning routine becomes.

📌 Bonus Tip: If you’re short on space, try using vacuum-sealed bags for clothing, renting a small storage unit, or utilizing multi-purpose furniture with built-in storage.

Decluttering isn’t just about making your home look better—it’s about creating a space where you feel better, too!

Step 3: Clean the Interiors of Appliances

Now let’s get to the things you use daily but rarely clean.

• Fridge: Toss expired condiments and wipe down shelves.

• Microwave & Oven: A deep clean will improve performance and remove odors.

• Stove: Move it and sweep underneath—because let’s be real, that’s where crumbs go to die.

A clean kitchen isn’t just about appearances—it also helps keep your food fresh and your appliances working longer.

Step 4: Dust Baseboards & Hidden Spaces

Dust accumulates in places you don’t even think about.

• Wipe down baseboards—it makes a bigger difference than you think!

• Clean behind furniture and appliances, where dust bunnies like to throw secret parties.

• Use a microfiber cloth or vacuum attachment to get into corners and crevices.

📌 Bonus Tip: If you have pets, check under your couch—you might find their long-lost toys!

Step 5: Deep Clean the Bathroom & Kitchen

Your bathroom and kitchen need extra attention.

✔ Scrub down sinks, toilets, and showers—soap scum doesn’t stand a chance!
✔ Disinfect countertops and cabinet fronts.
✔ Clean cutting boards and knives—they deserve some love, too!

A little elbow grease goes a long way in making these high-traffic areas sparkle.

Step 6: Freshen Up Your Laundry with This Hack

Want your laundry to smell like a luxury hotel? Try this trick:

• Add a splash of Lush’s fabric spray (like their "Happiness" scent) to your washing machine before starting the cycle.

• When your sheets are halfway dry, spritz them again and pop them back into the dryer.

Your bed will feel fresh, crisp, and oh-so-cozy—even without room service.

Step 7: Clean Windows & Window Treatments

Let the sunshine in by washing your windows inside and out.

✔ Vacuum or wash your curtains to remove dust buildup.
✔ Use a streak-free glass cleaner for a crystal-clear view.

Your space will feel brighter and fresher instantly.

Step 8: Tackle the Floors

Now that everything else is spotless, it’s time to clean your floors.

✔ Sweep, vacuum, and mop to remove dirt and dust.
✔ Pay extra attention to corners and under furniture—you might be surprised at what’s lurking there!

A deep-cleaned floor ties everything together and gives your home that fresh start feeling.

Final Thoughts