- By Bornika Das
- Wed, 18 Jun 2025 03:33 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Natural Ways To Keep Rats Away: Handling rats in the house is a difficult challenge, as they are destructive, unsanitary and can pose serious health risks. They are irritating, unwelcome creatures who can chew through wire and eat food, making a menace. They are not just an annoyance but a health hazard too, spreading dangerous diseases like leptospirosis and hantavirus, while also contaminating food. Unfortunately, rats find the cosy corner of the house for their habitat and getting rid of them becomes a daunting task. People who are annoyed by the frequent visits of rats in their house often find the solution to the most common question - “how to keep rats away from house naturally.” Keeping rats away from home doesn’t require harsh chemicals or expensive pest control services. With some rat prevention tips, you can get rid of them naturally at home.
When it comes to controlling rats in the house, prevention is always better than a cure. With a few smart, cost-effective rat control strategies, you can easily get rid of rats in your house and enjoy a clean, critter-free environment. From sealing entry points to using natural repellents, here are five rat prevention tips for homeowners.
Proven Methods To Rat-Proof Your Home
Seal All Entry Points
Owing to their tiny size, rats can squeeze through holes. To prevent them from entering the house, the easiest way is to look for the home’s exterior for cracks, holes or gaps, especially around doors, windows, pipes and vents and seal them. Use steel wool or metal mesh to block these spaces. Pay extra attention to the kitchen, bathroom and basement areas as rats enter the house from these spaces.
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Eliminate Food And Water Source
Rats usually enter homes in search of food. Thus, removing food and water sources is the easiest way to stop them from entering the house. Store all food, including pet food, in airtight containers. Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight and make sure the garbage bin is tightly sealed. Avoid leaving fruits, snacks or leftovers on countertops. The cleaner the house, the less the chance for the rats.
Declutter And Clean Regularly
Cluttered, quiet corners like piles of newspapers, cardboard boxes and unused clothes make a perfect home for rats for hiding and for producing babies. Thus, to prevent rat infestation, clean storage areas, the garage, the attic and under the sink regularly. Keep things in sealed plastic containers, rather than using cardboard boxes, which rats can chew through.
Rat Prevention Tips At Home (Image Credits: Canva)
Use Natural Deterrents
Certain natural smells, like that of peppermint oil, ammonia, garlic, and cayenne pepper, keep rats away from the house naturally. Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them near entry points, under the sink or in corners where rats may hide. You can also spray a mix of water and peppermint oil in rat-prone areas. Similarly, keep crushed garlic or cayenne pepper at the entry points of the home to prevent rats from entering. Repeat this every few days for continued effectiveness.
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Maintain A Clean And Tidy Balcony And Garden
It is often seen that rats find shelter in balconies and gardens, as these places are often neglected and are filled with unwanted items. An overgrown garden can serve as an ideal home ground for rats. Tall grass, wood piles, compost bins and dense shrubs offer hiding and breeding spots for them. Prevent this by keeping the lawn trimmed and clearing any fallen fruits, garbage, or birdseed. Also, check that outdoor drains and vents are covered with mesh. A tidy, well-maintained garden and balcony not only look beautiful but also prevent rats from entering the home.