5 Cleaning Hacks that Naturally Repel Mice In NYC
How to repel Stuart Little and his family and friends.
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.