Mice Love Empty Homes—How to Spot and Stop Them

If you're away for the season, your home might be a cozy retreat—for mice.

At Seattle Area Homewatch Services, we’ve seen an uptick in rodent activity during the spring. Mice sneak in, stay warm, and make themselves at home—often before anyone notices.

Signs of Mice:

• Droppings along baseboards or in cabinets

• Gnawed food packaging, wires, or wood

• Nests made of shredded paper or insulation

• Tracks in dusty areas

• Grease marks on walls or baseboards

• Scratching or rustling sounds in walls or ceilings

Prevention Tips:

• Remove all food (crumbs, open boxes, etc.)

• Seal small gaps—mice can squeeze through a hole the size of a dime!

• Use natural deterrents like peppermint or clove oil

• Regularly inspect quiet, undisturbed areas like closets and basements

• Call pest control if needed

Regular Homewatch check-ins can catch early signs before they turn into costly problems. Want peace of mind while you're away? Contact us today at SeattleAreaHomeWatchServices.com or 206-601-8945.