The strong scent that will mask the odours that attract rodents
It’s a common misconception that rats and mice are only a problem in winter but in reality, summer is peak breeding season and the rodents will be seeking out food.
While reaching for traps or poison could be your first instinct, these methods come with their own dangers, particularly if you’ve got pets or little ones running around. Enter Robyn Dockendorf from Pest Pointers, who’s come up with a safer, smarter way to keep those pesky rodents at bay – cayenne pepper.
Robyn explained: “Mice have a keen sense of smell that they use to find food, establish social hierarchies, and find mates. You can use this to your advantage by using the irritating scent of cayenne peppers to repel mice.”
Rats and mice, with their finely tuned sense of smell, are often lured into our homes by the tantalising aromas of food in bins or cupboards.
The potency of cayenne pepper is a game-changer, as it can cloak the smells that typically attract these unwelcome guests, making it trickier for them to track down their next meal.
Moreover, the fiery nature of cayenne pepper means it packs a punch, causing a stinging sensation in the noses and mouths of any rodent that dares to take a whiff, reports Express.
This sharp sting overpowers their senses and hurts their ability to navigate, prompting them to give a wide berth to anywhere that’s been given the cayenne treatment.
However, it’s worth noting that cayenne pepper acts as a natural deterrent, discouraging mice and rats from invading your home.
While it won’t exterminate rodents or solve a full-blown infestation, cayenne pepper can help ward off inquisitive rats and mice, particularly when they’re on the hunt for food during the summer months.
How to use cayenne pepper to deter mice and rats
Pour the cayenne pepper solution into an empty spray bottle and spritz it around potential rodent entry points in your home. Target windowsills, doorways, and any crevices.
This mixture can also be used in your garden, especially if you’ve had food outside following a barbecue or picnic.
This spicy pepper repellent is a straightforward yet effective method to keep rodents at bay this summer.
For a stronger deterrent, consider combining cayenne pepper with peppermint oil or even rosemary to keep mice and rats away for longer.