Guest Article Written by Kimberly Hayes at publichealthalert.info
Cleaning up your home after mice have moved in can be a major undertaking, but it’s important to make sure you take steps to get things in order and disinfected once they’re gone. This is because mice can spread disease, mainly through their feces and urine, and leaving behind even the faintest traces of it can leave you and your family at risk for health issues.
Mice can make huge messes and can breed quickly, so it’s crucial that if you feel there’s an infestation, you call a professional exterminator immediately to take care of the problem before it gets out of control.
Knowing where mice prefer to nest and how they might enter your home is also important, so do a little research and learn all you can about them. Being knowledgeable about what mice are looking for and how you can keep them from coming into your home will help to prevent issues down the road and allow you to understand how to tackle the problem when they start to come around. Here are a few important tips to help you get started.
Find the Best Exterminator
The right exterminator can come in and suss out any potential problems in your home, so when you discover that mice have moved in, it’s important to hire the right service. A pro will not only eliminate the issue, but they’ll also help you find the spots where vermin might gain access to your home and help you figure out the best ways to plug them up. You can use an online tool that will help you find the right exterminator for your needs and price range. Looking for a humane way to rid your home of rodents? Check out this company.
Check High and Low
It’s important to make sure you check every area of your home for signs of vermin. Droppings are the most common way to spot a problem, but you can also look for signs of nesting or damage from chewing or scratching. Look in the garage, shed, basement, and attic and check behind wood furniture, in boxes, and inside drawers and cabinets. If you choose to lay down traps, make sure pets and small children won’t have access to those areas.
Disinfect
Getting rid of any shredded newspaper or other nesting materials is essential when you’re getting rid of vermin, but it’s also important to make sure you disinfect those areas well. Use gloves and a mask to protect yourself from liquids and fumes, and use bleach and hot water to clean the area thoroughly. Make sure you air out the space, as well, and if you or a loved one is pregnant, stay away from the space entirely. Keep in mind that mild symptoms like fever, fatigue, and muscle aches tend to show up first after a virus has been transmitted from vermin; if you feel any of these immediately after cleaning up or discovering a nest, see your doctor immediately.
Declutter
Decluttering is imperative after you’ve had a problem with mice; they tend to look for spots they can hide and nest in, and when there are lots of belongings sitting around, they’ll be drawn right in. Old or wooden furniture, spaces with discarded paper, and dark or warm areas are the most common areas for mice to take over. Make sure you get rid of any outdated pieces of furniture and keep paperwork in a secure place. Store recyclable items in a box with a lid to keep pests out. It’s also a good idea to keep pet food sealed tightly.
Cleaning up after mice have made themselves at home can be stressful, especially if you have children or are concerned about the health risks. Take safety precautions throughout the process, and make sure you talk to your doctor about any worries you have regarding your well-being.