As the warmer weather approaches, the likelihood of encountering rats and mice around your property rises dramatically. The key breeding period for these rodents has been underway since spring, leaving them hungry, on the hunt for shelter and reproducing at an alarming rate — making our homes an ideal nesting spot.
Neglecting to prepare and overlooking the early warning signs can quickly escalate into a full-scale rodent infestation across your home. Beyond the potentially hefty pest control bills, there’s also the very genuine threat of contracting diseases.
Thankfully, there may be a straightforward and affordable solution to keep them away, reports the Express.
Glen Peskett, a DIY expert from Saxton Blades, has revealed that one everyday kitchen ingredient can ward off rats from your property all year round: garlic.
He said: “Garlic is a favourite all around the world, it smells amazing, has health benefits and transforms any dish you put it in. But for rats? That strong, pungent smell is their absolute nightmare.
View 2 ImagesRats and mice will be looking for food and shelter this spring(Image: Getty)
“Rats rely heavily on their sense of smell to navigate and find food. Garlic, with its strong sulfur compounds, overwhelms their sense of smell and makes them feel disoriented.
“These compounds are also something rats associate with toxic substances, naturally deterring them from entering your home.”
The remedy is remarkably budget-friendly, with a four-pack available for just 87p at Asda, working out at roughly 22p per bulb.
Place garlic cloves strategically around entry points throughout your home where rodents are most likely to get in.
These creatures are typically drawn to spaces such as basements, garages, kitchens and lofts, so make sure you position them near any cracks and doorways on the exterior of your property.
Garlic oil, cayenne pepper and apple cider vinegar can also be remarkably effective at deterring unwanted pests from entering your home.
However, repellents on their own aren’t the complete answer.
Tackling other problems, such as clutter, can remove potential hiding places that rats might use to build their nests.
Food waste is another significant draw for rats, so ensure your bins are firmly sealed, dispose of rubbish regularly, and clean up any spills immediately.
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Lastly, inspect your property carefully for any openings, especially under doors or around vents, and seal them up – even the tiniest of gaps can provide rats and mice with enough space to slip through.