The trick is cheap, quick, and could even use something you were going to throw away
Rats are a problem, particularly around the summer months(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)
As the Summer months get closer and closer, the likelihood of encountering rats and mice around your property increases. Spring is a crucial breeding period for these rodents, making them hungry, seeking shelter, and reproducing rapidly, which can turn our homes into ideal nesting locations.
If people fail to prepare and overlook early warning signs, an infestation can quickly take hold in homes and gardens. This situation not only leads to potentially expensive extermination costs but also poses the risk of spreading diseases, as reported in the Liverpool Echo.
Thankfully, there may be a simple and cost-effective solution to keep these pests at bay. Glen Peskett, a DIY specialist from Saxton Blades, suggests that one common kitchen staple can help deter rats throughout the year: garlic.
He explained: “Garlic is a favourite all around the world, it smells amazing, has health benefits and transforms any dish you put it in. But for rats? That strong, pungent smell is their absolute nightmare.
“Rats rely heavily on their sense of smell to navigate and find food. Garlic, with its strong sulfur compounds, overwhelms their sense of smell and makes them feel disoriented.
“These compounds are also something rats associate with toxic substances, naturally deterring them from entering your home.”
You can buy four bulbs of garlic at major supermarkets for just 87p, equating to around 22p per bulb of garlic. This makes the deterrant as effective as it is inexpensive.
To keep rodents out of your home, place garlic cloves around entry points where they are likely to gain access. Common areas for rodent entry include basements, garages, kitchens, and lofts, so be sure to position the garlic near any cracks and doorways on the exterior of your property.
In addition to garlic, you can use garlic oil, cayenne pepper, and apple cider vinegar as effective deterrents against unwanted pests. These all work thanks to the strong odours they emit.
However, relying solely on repellents is not enough. It’s also important to reduce clutter in your home, as this can eliminate potential hiding spots where rats could build nests.
Food waste is another significant attraction for rats. Ensure your bins are firmly sealed, empty them regularly, and promptly clean up any spills. Lastly, inspect your property for any gaps, especially beneath doors or around vents, and seal those openings.
Experts warn that even the smallest holes can allow rats and mice to get inside.
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