Mice and rat infestations are more likely to occur during the winter months, when animals are seeking food, shelter, and warmth.

But this poses a problem for many, so trying to ward them off is just half the battle. 

These rodents have a very sensitive sense of smell, and because of their poor eyesight, their other senses need to be on high alert.

To keep pests away, using strong smells to ‘overpower’ their sense may be all you need.

The pest control experts from Eliminated LTD shared a number of scents and smells which both rats and mice hate, making sure they stay away from your home.

So next time you’re browsing for your next home fragrance, these are the aromas to keep in mind.

Lavender

According to the experts, mice and rats “hate the smell of lavender” so using a lavender-scented spray, essential oils, or even growing a lavender plant will help repel them. 

Alternatively, you could create your own solution by using a quarter to half a cup of flowers per one-quarter cup of water in a spray bottle to repel mice from your home. This will need to be replaced monthly. 

Lavender’s essential oil contains compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which are known to have a calming effect on humans. Critter Stop also suggested placing sachets of dried lavender in areas where mice are likely to enter.

Citrus

Another potent smell loathed by rats and mice is citrus oil, which contains limonene, found in lemon, orange and grapefruit peels.

Limonene can also be found in flavouring agents in food, perfumes, medicines, and cleaning products. According to the experts, citrus oils such as lemon and orange are also “very effective at keeping rats and mice away” from an area or object.

However, due to the strength of citrus oils, it’s recommended to dilute them with water before applying.

Peppermint

Peppermint is also another potent scent to use to banish rodents. Peppermint contains menthol, which irritates mice and rats’ nasal cavities and disorients them.

The experts explained that when mice come across the scent of peppermint, they “associate it with danger and fear”. As a result, they’ll “avoid areas” where it’s present or try to “stay away from it” as much as possible.

Peppermint also happens to be one of the most common ingredients used in home remedies for rodent repellent. Put a few drops on cotton balls, then place them in places where mice tend to hide.

Chilli powder

If you’re after a budget option to help banish rodents, turn your attention toward chilli powder, as you can find it at most supermarkets.

The experts explained: “This is an effective home remedy for getting rid of mice because it smells terrible to them and they won’t stay around long enough for their sense of smell to become accustomed to it.”

To make this method effective, you’ll need around two tablespoons of chilli powder per litre of water before adding it to your spray bottle or hand sanitiser container, when creating a solution. You can also sprinkle chilli powder where you suspect there may be mice.