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Before You Leave for Vacation… Don't Forget About Mice!

  • chrisbyler
  • Jul 6
  • 2 min read


If you're heading out for a vacation or leaving your home for the winter, here's one item that should be on your checklist: mouse prevention.


Every year, we find signs of rodent activity in some vacant homes we monitor. An empty house is the perfect environment for mice—it's quiet, warm, and undisturbed. Once they find a way in, they often invite the rest of the family!

The good news? A little preparation before you leave can go a long way.


Before You Leave

• Remove food sources. Store pantry items in sealed containers, clean up crumbs, and don't leave pet food out. (Remember... never give a mouse a cookie! 😉)

• Seal entry points. Mice can squeeze through openings as small as ¼ inch—about the size of a pencil. Check around foundations, utility pipes, garage doors, crawl spaces, and under sinks.

• Inspect quiet areas. Basements, garages, utility rooms, and closets are favorite hiding places.

• Consider natural deterrents. Some homeowners use peppermint oil, clove oil, or cinnamon. Results vary, but they may help discourage rodents.

• If you've had mice before, consider setting traps or having a pest control company inspect your home before you leave.


Know the Warning Signs

During our Homewatch visits, we keep an eye out for:

  • Droppings

  • Gnaw marks on boxes, wood, or wiring

  • Nesting materials

  • Tracks or runways

  • Grease marks along walls

  • Urine stains

  • Scratching or rustling sounds

Catching these signs early can prevent a minor nuisance from becoming an expensive cleanup and repair project.


At Seattle Area HomeWatch Services, one of the many things we look for during our inspections is evidence of rodent activity. Regular visits allow us to identify problems early, notify homeowners immediately, and help coordinate solutions before damage gets out of hand.

Enjoy your time away with confidence, knowing someone is keeping a watchful eye on your home.


 
 
 

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