Using a simple item could help keep rats away from your home during the colder months of the year. As the temperatures drop in January, they may be looking for ways to creep in and seek shelter
10:46, 04 Jan 2026Updated 10:46, 04 Jan 2026
You can stop rats from coming inside (stock image)(Image: Wirestock via Getty Images)
Nobody fancies sharing their home with rats, so knowing straightforward methods to ward off these unwelcome visitors is invaluable. As temperatures plummet during winter, rats become more inclined to venture indoors searching for warmth and sustenance, making prevention tactics all the more crucial.
For those concerned about rodent activity or who’ve spotted telltale signs, one humble kitchen staple could prove remarkably effective at sending them packing. A housekeeping expert has revealed how this simple ingredient can repel the vermin and discourage them from loitering in your garden or breaching your home.
This isn’t the sole weapon in your anti-rat arsenal either. Several months back, another clever strategy emerged involving sprinkling a commonplace spice around outdoor areas.
Meanwhile, Mbali S Nhlapo Nhlapho, who regularly dishes out domestic wisdom on social media, has shared yet another ingenious solution. Focusing on mice in one of her Instagram posts, she’s offered guidance that’s definitely worth taking on board.
Through a straightforward demonstration, she’s shown how to banish rats and mice effectively. Both rodents absolutely cannot stand the scent of one specific ingredient.
What should I use?
In her video, Mbali revealed: “Housekeeper tip. If you didn’t know that peppermint oil gets rid of mice, well now you know. How do you prepare it? Of course, first, wear your gloves.
“Secondly, this is your peppermint oil. I’m preparing it on the sponge just like this. You chuck it next to the fridge, next to the door, wherever you see there are rats.
“It’s easy for you to trap them. Please wear your gloves and use peppermint oil as it gets rid of mice.”
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Whilst Mbali opts for sponge pieces, cotton balls soaked in pure peppermint essential oil work equally well. Position them beneath sinks, along skirting boards or in garden areas where rodent activity has been spotted.
Alternatively, create a spray solution by combining several teaspoons of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle. This can be applied to entry points or any areas requiring treatment.
Does it work?
Peppermint oil serves as a natural and non-toxic method for deterring rats and mice. It can repel rodents from spaces such as pantries, vehicles and properties, though it’s best viewed as a short-term solution that works most effectively when combined with other pest control measures.
Regular reapplication to sponges or cotton balls is essential to maintain its effectiveness. The powerful, sharp scent of peppermint oil overwhelms rats’ highly sensitive sense of smell, making it an unpleasant environment for them.
For optimal results, 100% pure peppermint essential oil should be used to ensure the strongest possible aroma. While it can deter the pests temporarily, it’s crucial to understand that this trick won’t permanently eradicate infestations, but it’s a handy method to keep them at bay. If you feel rats are becoming an issue, you should always seek advice from a pest control expert.
It’s also vital to be aware that, if you have pets, peppermint oil can be harmful to them, so you should proceed with caution when using the product. If ingested, it can be toxic to dogs and cats so ensure they can’t come into contact with it.
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