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In addition, the colder temperatures can leave homes vulnerable to pest infestations this time of year.

Thats why its so important to rodent-proof your home, especially before you go away for the holidays.

Mouse hiding in a Santa hat with Christmas gifts

Mouse entering home through hole in wall

Mind the gaps

Did you know thatrodents can squeeze into openings as small as a dime?

And since rodents are primarily in search of shelter and food, they will sneak in at any opportunity.

Rodents can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter inch.

Mouse entering home through hole in wall

Mouse entering home through hole in wall

Seal gaps with materials like steel wool combined with caulk or metal flashing to prevent chewing.

Pay special attention to areas around doors and windowsadding weather stripping can block these common entryways.

The more difficult you make it for rodents to type your property, the less likely they will return.

A few mice on the kitchen sink

A few mice on the kitchen sink

You might need to know these7 places mice like to hide and what to look out forand take action.

Store all food in airtight containers made of glass or metal, as rodents can chew through plastic.

Clean up spills promptly and take out trash regularly.

Box of holiday decorations

Box of holiday decorations

Rodents also seek out nesting materials like paper, fabric, and insulation.

Catch mice in your home with this 4-pack of humane ‘catch and release’ traps.

Designed to catch mice without harming them for them to be released back into the wild.

Bee Defender Mouse Traps Humane Catch and Release

These pet-friendly traps are easy to clean, contain a removable bait case and are reusable.

Again, this will invite rats and mice to have their own holiday feast!

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