This post is a follow-up to our recent social media question: “Can you guess this pest?” 🐭
If you guessed the house mouse — you were right! These small, sneaky creatures love to find warmth indoors as St. Louis temperatures start to drop. While they might seem harmless, mice can contaminate food, spread diseases, and cause costly damage to wiring, insulation, and stored belongings.
At STL Pest Control, we’ve been helping local homeowners stay rodent-free since 1989. Here are our best prevention tips to help you stop mice before they move in this fall and winter.
1. Seal Up Every Possible Entry Point
Mice can squeeze through openings as small as a dime — seriously! Start by inspecting your foundation, siding, vents, and areas where pipes or cables enter your home. Seal gaps with steel wool or copper mesh before applying caulk or expanding foam.
Check under doors, garage entryways, and window frames. The fewer openings, the fewer chances mice have to sneak inside.
2. Keep Your Kitchen Clean and Food Sealed
Your kitchen is a paradise for rodents — crumbs, spills, and open food containers attract them fast. Keep all food (including pet food) in airtight containers and wipe down counters nightly. Sweep or vacuum often and take out the trash before bed.
A clean, clutter-free kitchen sends a clear message: there’s nothing here for mice!
3. Tidy Up Outdoor Areas
Before mice enter your home, they often make a stop in your yard or garage. Trim shrubs and tall grass near your foundation, store firewood at least 20 feet away from the house, and clear away leaves or debris that provide cover.
If you have outdoor pet feeding areas, bring in leftover food each evening — this simple habit prevents rodents from getting too comfortable near your home.
4. Inspect Attics, Basements, and Crawl Spaces
These quiet, undisturbed areas are ideal nesting zones for mice. Look for droppings, gnawed materials, or shredded paper and insulation.
If you notice signs of activity, don’t ignore them — a single pair of mice can multiply quickly into dozens. Early detection is key to stopping a small issue from becoming a full infestation.
5. Use Professional Pest Control for Lasting Protection
DIY prevention goes a long way, but when it comes to rodents, professional expertise makes the difference. Our Rodent Control Services include thorough inspections, sealing of entry points, and safe, effective treatments that keep mice out for good.
At STL Pest Control, we use proven, family-safe methods to protect your home — not just from mice, but from other seasonal pests like rats, squirrels, and wildlife too. With over 30 years of experience serving the St. Louis community, you can count on us for dependable, local expertise.
Why Homeowners Trust STL Pest Control
- Locally owned and operated since 1989
- Licensed, insured, and highly trained technicians
- Honest, fair pricing with no hidden fees
- Friendly service and guaranteed results
Don’t let a few tiny mice turn into a big problem this fall. Call STL Pest Control today for a complete rodent inspection and prevention plan customized for your home.
📞 Schedule your service today or call us directly at (314) 833-6222.