Rats and mice are not just a nuisance – they can carry diseases and cause damage to your propertyThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Nobody wants to see rats or mice in their garden(Image: Nigel Harris via Getty Images)
As the warmer months approach, you’re more likely to see rats and mice in and around your home. Spring is a critical breeding period for these rodents, meaning they’re hungry, searching for shelter and reproducing at an alarming rate — and sadly, our homes are the ideal nesting spots.
Without proper preparation and by missing early warning signs, you could quickly face a rat infestation spreading through your property.
Not only can pest control services be expensive, but there’s also the genuine risk of contracting diseases. Thankfully, there may be a simple solution to repel them — and it won’t cost a fortune either.
According to Glen Peskett, DIY expert from Saxton Blades, one everyday kitchen staple can ward off rats from your home all year round: garlic.
The strong smell of garlic can help to drive pests away(Image: Getty)
He said: “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.”
Garlic is incredibly budget-friendly too, with a four-pack available for just 87p from Asda, working out at roughly 22p per bulb.
Rats and mice are more commonly seen in the warmer months(Image: MikeLane45 via Getty Images)
How to use garlic to keep rats and mice away
Place garlic cloves around entry points to your property, where rodents are most likely to sneak through. They’re especially drawn to spaces such as basements, garages, kitchens and lofts, so be sure to position them near any gaps and doorways around the perimeter of your home.
Garlic oil, cayenne pepper and apple cider vinegar are also effective at deterring any pests that might be tempted to venture inside.
However, repellents alone won’t solve the problem. Carrying out other measures, such as clearing clutter, can remove hidden spaces that rats exploit to construct nests.
Food waste is another major attraction for rats, so ensure bins are securely sealed, empty them frequently, and wipe up any spillages straight away.
Lastly, inspect for cracks, especially beneath doors or vents, and seal them up – even the tiniest openings can allow rats and mice to squeeze inside.
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