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Can You Really Use Mothballs To Repel Rodents And Mice?

 Busting Pest Control Myths

In the world of pest control and removal, there are quite a few myths and “old wives tales” related to getting rid of mice and other rodents. People all around the country swear that strongly-scented items like peppermint oil, moth balls, and other “natural” repellents are effective for driving mice out of your home. But is that really the case?

In this article, Wildlife Troopers will take a look at mothballs – and whether or not they’re actually effective for repelling mice and rats.

Do Mothballs Repel Rodents And Mice?

Mothballs Do Not Work As A Rodent Repellent!

Mothballs are not an effective DIY mouse control method. Why? Let’s get into the specifics.

Mothballs contain a strong-smelling, white substance called naphthalene. This is the substance that is responsible for the acrid smell of mothballs, and helps repel moths and other insects.

Naphthalene, when inhaled or ingested, can prevent blood cells from being able to carry oxygen properly. This is why mothballs are commonly thought of as being effective at destroying the nests of mice and rats. By placing mothballs near nests, you can drive away rodents, right?

Well, not quite. There is very little naphthalene in mothballs – just enough to impair moths and other insects. In order to repel mice and other rodents, you would need a level of naphthalene that would also harm humans.

In other words, you’d need to dump a metric ton of mothballs into a mouse’s nest before it had any kind of effect – and this could also harm you, or your children.

Rats and mice may not like the smell of naphthalene very much, but they are crafty and cunning creatures. They will simply find another place to nest, and the mothballs won’t be enough to actually harm them in any way.

How Can I Actually Keep Rodents Out Of My House?

So, mothballs don’t work. But how can you keep rodents out of your house, and make sure they don’t come back? Here are a few proven ways.

 

  • Cleaning and prevention – If you take the time to thoroughly clean your home and keep all of your food in airtight containers, mice and rats won’t be able to find any food – and they’ll leave your home.

 

  • Home repairs – Fixing holes that lead to the outdoors, or any other damaged parts of your home will prevent rats and mice from coming in. Sheet metal is a great material for this, as rats and mice can’t chew through it.
  • Steel wool – Mice and rats can’t chew through steel wool, so it’s a great material for filling mouse holes, vents, and other areas in which you suspect mice may be getting into your home.
  • Traps and professional pest removal – If you already have a rat or mouse problem, it’s best to turn to professional rat removal services like Wildlife Troopers. We have the expertise to remove rats and mice from your home – and prevent them from coming back.

Contact Us Today For Rat Removal In Palm Beach!

If you’ve been struggling with a mouse or a rat problem in Palm Beach, don’t try using mothballs! Contact Wildlife Troopers right away. We have years of experience with rodent infestations of all types – and we can help you get rid of vermin and pests forever![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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