Try this to keep out mice.

Mothballs deserve special attention because they’re pesticides, not harmless scented balls.

They contain chemicals intended for specific labeled uses.

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Leaving them scattered around living areas, kitchens, attics or other places contrary to label directions can expose people and animals to pesticide vapors.

They’re not something to casually distribute around a house because an online post says mice dislike the smell.

Always follow pesticide labels.

What Actually Works When Mice Are Already Inside?

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If mice are already present, exclusion prevents additional animals from entering, while trapping helps deal with those already indoors.

Traditional snap traps remain a practical option.

Place traps where mouse activity is evident, particularly along walls and behind objects because mice commonly travel close to edges rather than crossing wide-open rooms.

Keep traps where children and pets cannot reach them, or use appropriately designed enclosed stations.

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If you have a substantial or persistent infestation, professional pest control may be worthwhile—particularly when entry points are difficult to locate.

Be Careful Cleaning Mouse Droppings

This part is important.

Don’t aggressively sweep or vacuum fresh rodent droppings in a way that can send contaminated dust into the air.

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Ventilate the area when appropriate, wear gloves, wet the droppings and contaminated area thoroughly with a suitable disinfectant, allow the product its required contact time, and wipe the material up.

Wash your hands afterward.

If there’s extensive contamination, especially in enclosed spaces, professional cleanup may be safer.

Why Poison Isn’t Always the Simplest Answer

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Rodenticides can be useful in some professionally managed situations, but they require care.

Improper placement can endanger children, pets and wildlife.

A poisoned rodent can also die somewhere inaccessible, leaving you with an odor problem.

If rodenticides are considered, follow the product label exactly and use tamper-resistant bait stations where required or appropriate. For complicated infestations, professional guidance is preferable.