The Handy Mouse Deterrent That's Sitting In Your Cabinet

It's hard to believe such a minuscule creature can elicit a towering tsunami of emotions for homeowners. In most cases, the sight of even a single mouse can be triggering, let alone a whole home invasion. Fortunately, the key to preventing a rodent-induced panic attack may be as close as your kitchen cabinet. Breathe slowly, deeply, and gently while you reach for a roll of aluminum foil. Mice detest the shiny household staple because of its sound, smell, and texture.

If you thought aluminum foil was only good for wrapping leftovers, it turns out that the sheet metal is the secret to solving a myriad of household conundrums, from moving heavy pieces of furniture to removing rust from metal. Now you can tap into even more of its potential by using it as an inexpensive and humane rodent repellent. 

Due to their tiny size and poor vision, mice are scared of bright lights and loud noises. Consequently, mice actively avoid foil's reflective illumination and the harsh sounds of crinkling and crumpling that are created when they touch its surface. Likewise, rodents are repulsed by aluminum foil's metallic odor and are equally irritated by its smooth texture, which prevents them from gripping and climbing their way to available food sources.

Harnessing aluminum foil allows you to effectively protect your living area. To start, thoroughly inspect your home for holes or gaps where mice might gain entry. Remember, mice can squeeze through openings that are smaller than the size of a dime, so don't discount seemingly insignificant cracks. Next, cut pieces of aluminum foil so they are slightly larger than the openings, then adhere them in place with duct tape.

Another option is to ball up pieces of aluminum foil and wedge them into any openings in walls, door frames, and foundations. When plugging deep holes, use a screwdriver or butter knife to push the wad in as far as it can go. If you're concerned about the aluminum foil becoming displaced, fill the hole with silicone caulk prior to inserting the ball of foil, which will make it harder for mice to reopen the access point.

Other vulnerable areas can be safeguarded against rodents by thoroughly wrapping them with aluminum foil, including furniture legs, pipes, cardboard boxes, and plastic containers. While mice are still capable of chewing through the foil, it's uncomfortable to do so because of the ridges, grooves, and sharp edges that are generated with each bite.