Cleaning Up After A Rodent Infestation

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Cute lil' Critter's Can Wreak Havoc

Rodent infestations can be difficult to deal with; for many homeowners, getting rid of the critters is only one part of the process. Afterwards, many people are also faced with the task of cleaning up the house and making repairs to any damaged spots caused by chewing or nest-building. It’s hard to believe such tiny animals can wreak so much havoc on a house, but they can really make a mess, especially if an infestation isn’t caught right away. It’s also imperative that a thorough cleaning is done immediately. While not all mice are disease-carriers, many can spread bacteria and viruses through their stool.

Cleaning up your home and making small repairs may not sound like big jobs, but they can be if they aren’t done right. After hiring a professional exterminator to come in and take care of the mice you’ll need to create a budget for repairs so you’re not blindsided by additional expenses. Often, mice like to hide behind baseboards or wood furniture, and in spaces like attics, crawlspaces, and basements. Doing a thorough examination of your home can help you figure out what needs to be addressed first.

Find the right help

For major infestations, a DIY job just won’t cut it. A professional exterminator can come in and take care of the problem safely and efficiently, so it’s important to find the right company for your needs. Look online at all the different options in your area and do some price comparisons. You can also read reviews to get an idea of how each company rates with their customer base.

Look for damage

You may have noticed damage from mice in certain areas of your home -- such as beneath the kitchen sink or in the pantry -- but it’s important to do a thorough investigation around your home to look for any other spots they might have infiltrated. Check behind, inside, and underneath wood furniture for any signs of chewing or nesting, as well as around baseboards. Even if you find no damage, you might still find signs that mice have been around, such as droppings or scratch marks. Remember to throw away any food that might have been in contact with a mouse, including pet food, to avoid contamination by disease or bacteria.

Clean and disinfect

Cleaning and disinfecting your home will take some time, so be prepared to spend a few hours going over every area inside your home with bleach, hot water, and vinegar. These are the best solutions for cleaning up after an infestation because there are no chemicals involved, and because vinegar will neutralize any odors left behind. Remember to use gloves and open the windows if possible for ventilation.

Use an air purifier

Because mice can contribute to unhealthy air quality in your home, it’s a good idea to do everything you can to clean things up. Airing out each room is a good start, but if inclement weather prevents you from opening windows, consider using an air purifier with a good filter. Be sure to clean it out often to prevent bacteria from growing inside.

Cleaning up after a rodent infestation can be a big chore, but if you start things off right by using the correct tools and cleaning supplies, you can get it done in no time. Be sure to call in a pro if the job seems too big; it’s always better to err on the side of caution so you can make sure everything is done right.

SERVPRO of Brandywine/Wilmington is here to help! 302 762 8080