Rats can enter homes in January (stock image) (Image: Getty)
Nobody wants rats to enter their home, but the rodents are more likely to make an appearance in January. This is because, as the weather gets colder, they try to gain access to properties and buildings to seek food and shelter.
However, according to pest control experts at Rentokil, using a simple ingredient can help to deter them in January. If you place it in your garden, you could just keep rats away this winter, or at least deter them from entering your home during the colder months of the year, so it’s worth taking note of the useful advice.
It’s not the only tip you may want to follow this month either. It was previously revealed another common item can help keep them away if placed outside.
The topic recently came up on Reddit, when a user asked: “Tips on how to repel rats from your property? I found rat activity in my garage a few weeks ago. Cleared everything out, filled the holes with foam and set eight traps.
“So far, no activity since then in the garage; however, because they can’t access the garage, they’ve been getting into the trunks and cabs of everyone’s cars. I’m super worried they’ll cause major damage to our vehicles. So, I’m wondering is there any way to attempt to repel them from coming on the property?”
Read more: Rats will infiltrate your bins if simple food is stored in waste in January
One person replied to the post, suggesting: “Your best bet is to make sure there is no food source on your property and exclude any entry points. They will look elsewhere.”
Another added: “Peppermint oil. They hate it.” One more also noted: “In short, there is nothing you can do to keep them away from your property. They’re animals that live outside and, as long as your property remains outside, you will always have to deal with wildlife.”
However, it turns out there is a simple thing you can do to try and deter them, and it’s been outlined by Rentokil. The experts offered essential guidance in its online blog.
What does Rentokil say?
The website reads: “The strong, acidic aroma of vinegar is another effective rat deterrent. White vinegar or apple cider vinegar diluted with water can be sprayed or wiped around potential entry points.
“Damp can exacerbate odours, and vinegar can help to neutralise existing rat smells. This is especially useful in damp cellars or sheds where rats are often drawn. However, vinegar’s effectiveness is temporary and needs frequent reapplication. Furthermore, it might not be suitable for all surfaces, as it can damage certain materials.”
How does it work?
Little you may know, white vinegar can be used to deter rats. This is because its strong, acidic smell overwhelms their senses, and interferes with their navigation.
There are two ways to implement the method. You could mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and then apply it to potential entry points like doors, windows and near openings in the garden.
Alternatively, you could also use soaked cotton balls in undiluted white vinegar and put them in hidden spots like under appliances, behind bins or in corners where you’ve seen signs of rats.
However, it’s important to remember it’s just a deterrent. For best results, the ingredient should be used together with physical barriers (steel mesh) to monitor and seal entry points. You should always test areas before using the spray, as acid can damage some surfaces.
If you fear you have a rat infestation, you should always call a pest control expert for guidance. They will best advise how you can fix the problem.
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