By Cynthia Lawrence
Copyright tomsguide
Skip to main content
Tom’s Guide
Newsletters
View Profile
Search Tom’s Guide
You May Like
What’s the best way to get rid of a mouse you trapped? I asked pest experts for their advice
Experts urge homeowners to sprinkle mint in their yards this summer — here’s why
‘If a pen can fit in the gap, a rat probably can too’ — pest expert urges homeowners to take these preventative steps now
Phone Insights
Phone Best Picks
Phone Deals
Phone Face-Offs
Phone How-Tos
Phone Reviews
Network Carriers
Android Phones
Google Phones
Motorola Phones
OnePlus Phones
Samsung Phones
Nothing Phone
TV Best Picks
TV Face-Offs
Audio Insights
Audio Best Picks
Audio Deals
Audio Face-Offs
Audio How-Tos
Audio Reviews
Over-Ear Headphones
Bluetooth Speakers
Smart Speakers
TV & Audio Brands
Entertainment
Streaming Devices
Prime Video
Paramount Plus
PlayStation
Handheld Gaming
Gaming Peripherals
Connections
Computing Insights
Computing Best Picks
Computing Deals
Computing Face-Offs
Computing How-Tos
Computing News
Computing Reviews
VPN Best Picks
VPN Face-Offs
VPN How-Tos
VPN Reviews
Operating Systems
Identity Theft Protection
Parental Controls
Malware & Adware
Virtual Reality
Augmented Reality
Smart Glasses
Chromebooks
Gaming Laptops
Apple Desktops
Gaming Desktops
Android Tablets
Computing Brands
AI Insights
AI Best Picks
AI Face-Offs
Google Gemini
Apple Intelligence
Mattress Best Picks
Mattress Deals
Mattress Face-Offs
Mattress How-Tos
Mattress News
Mattress Reviews
Mattress Care
Mattress Toppers
Pillows & Bedding
Smartwatches
Fitness Trackers
Smart Rings
Apple Watch
Home Insights
Home Best Picks
Home Face-Offs
Home How-Tos
Home Reviews
Home Topics
Home Appliances
Home Office
Home Security
Home Brands
Popular Brands
View Phones
Phone Insights
Phone Best Picks
Phone Deals
Phone Face-Offs
Phone How-Tos
Phone Reviews
Network Carriers
View Network Carriers
Android Phones
View Android Phones
Google Phones
Motorola Phones
OnePlus Phones
Samsung Phones
Nothing Phone
TV Best Picks
TV Face-Offs
Audio Insights
View Audio Insights
Audio Best Picks
Audio Deals
Audio Face-Offs
Audio How-Tos
Audio Reviews
Headphones
View Headphones
Over-Ear Headphones
View Speakers
Bluetooth Speakers
Smart Speakers
TV & Audio Brands
Entertainment
View Entertainment
View Streaming
Streaming Devices
Prime Video
Paramount Plus
View Gaming
PlayStation
Handheld Gaming
Gaming Peripherals
Word Games
Connections
View Computing
Computing Insights
Computing Best Picks
Computing Deals
Computing Face-Offs
Computing How-Tos
Computing News
Computing Reviews
VPN Best Picks
VPN Face-Offs
VPN How-Tos
VPN Reviews
View Hardware
View Software
Operating Systems
View Security
Identity Theft Protection
Parental Controls
Malware & Adware
View VR & AR
Virtual Reality
Augmented Reality
Smart Glasses
View Laptops
Chromebooks
Gaming Laptops
View Desktops
Apple Desktops
Gaming Desktops
View Tablets
Android Tablets
Computing Brands
AI Insights
AI Best Picks
AI Face-Offs
AI Engines
Google Gemini
Apple Intelligence
View Wellness
Mattresses
View Mattresses
Mattress Best Picks
Mattress Deals
Mattress Face-Offs
Mattress How-Tos
Mattress News
Mattress Reviews
Mattress Care
Mattress Toppers
Pillows & Bedding
View Fitness
Smartwatches
Fitness Trackers
Smart Rings
Apple Watch
Home Insights
Home Best Picks
Home Face-Offs
Home How-Tos
Home Reviews
Home Topics
Home Appliances
Home Office
Home Security
View Outdoors
Home Brands
Popular Brands
iPhone Air Review
iPhone 17 Pro Max Review
iPhone 17 Review
Meta Ray-Ban Display
Best laptops
Best Mattress
Don’t miss these
‘If a pen can fit in the gap, a rat probably can too’ — pest expert urges homeowners to take these preventative steps now
You’re handling wasps wrong — here’s what pest experts advise if you find a wasp indoors
How to keep bees out of hummingbird feeders — 5 expert methods to help them thrive
People are being urged to put this one plant in the bathroom to avoid mold this fall — here’s why
What’s the best way to get rid of a mouse you trapped? I asked pest experts for their advice
Experts urge homeowners to sprinkle mint in their yards this summer — here’s why
Experts are predicting a ‘surge in rat activity’, so I asked them how to rodent-proof my home
How to rat-proof your yard — 5 expert tips to keep rodents away
Heading on vacation? Expert shares the ‘often overlooked’ routine that will keep pests away from your home
Why are slugs and snails invading my yard? Here’s what a pest expert recommends to stop them
5 spider-repelling hacks that actually work — and you probably have everything you need at home
I asked pest experts if it’s ever ok to squash spiders in your home — here’s what they say
How to avoid tick bites this summer — top tips from a pest expert on how to stay safe
Expert reveals the one yard furniture mistake that could be attracting termites
People are being urged to put cotton wool on their windowsills this month — here’s why
Do mice like cheese? Pest experts debunk 3 common myths about having a mouse in your home
Cynthia Lawrence
27 September 2025
Experts reveal common myths about mice
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
Nobody likes the thought of a mouse infestation in their home. And since the cold spell marks the start of ‘peak rodent season’, you’ll probably want to know how to safeguard your house, and what you need to buy to prevent mice from entering your space.
Not only are such rodents notoriously hard to get rid of, but they can potentially damage your property and structure. And in our bid to remove the things that attract rats and mice to your home in the first place, there are also plenty of misconceptions to be aware of.
We asked the pest experts to shed light on a few common myths about mice, and whether these are actually true or if they’re nothing more than an old wives’ tale.
You may like
What’s the best way to get rid of a mouse you trapped? I asked pest experts for their advice
Experts urge homeowners to sprinkle mint in their yards this summer — here’s why
‘If a pen can fit in the gap, a rat probably can too’ — pest expert urges homeowners to take these preventative steps now
Myth 1: Trap mice with cheese
Mousetraps near a mouse (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Perhaps the most common myth is that mice can be trapped with cheese. But is this really true? “Mice in the home are very common, but along with this can come some absolute myths and misconceptions,” states Ed Dolshun, the VP of Business Development and Technical Director from Catchmaster.
“Easily the top one is putting cheese into your rodent traps or glue boards. This might always work in cartoons, but in real life, mice are attracted to high-protein and high-fat food. You will always be better off putting some peanut butter into your traps to lure mice in.”
If in doubt, however, always call a pest control company who will advise on the best methods. “The application of cheese as bait, for example, will leave little consequence, and a false assumption that you only have one mouse can make someone miss the seriousness of an infestation,” adds Tony King, pest control expert, owner and manager of The Pied Piper.
“Understanding behavior is important. Mice are more motivated by security and convenience than by specific food items. They like to move along walls and corners and find places that provide warmth, shelter, and easy access to food and water.”
Sign up to get the BEST of Tom’s Guide direct to your inbox.
Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.
Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
What’s more, avoid leaving out specific foods that attract mice to your kitchen, or else they’ll be back for more! “Unsealed cereal boxes, rice, pasta, and other grains can be very attractive to mice,” says John Stewart, pest prevention specialist at Pelsis Group. “These foods are high in carbohydrates, providing mice with a good energy source.”
Myth 2: Borrow a cat to catch the mouse
Cat watching a mouse on countertop (Image credit: Shutterstock)
Another common myth is to borrow a friend or neighbor’s cat to search for the mouse. I’ve certainly been advised to do this in the past by friends who swear by this method. But, what do the experts have to say?
“I am also shocked that folks believe bringing a cat into the home can be a way to solve a mouse problem,” states Dolshun. “Of course it is possible for a cat to catch a mouse or two, but this just is not a real control method. There are so many places that a cat just will not be able to reach.”
You may like
What’s the best way to get rid of a mouse you trapped? I asked pest experts for their advice
Experts urge homeowners to sprinkle mint in their yards this summer — here’s why
‘If a pen can fit in the gap, a rat probably can too’ — pest expert urges homeowners to take these preventative steps now
If you suspect a mouse infestation, always seek professional advice from a pest control company — and don’t just rely on your feline friends!
Motel Mouse Store Humane Mouse Trap 4 pack: $24 at Amazon
Catch mice in your home with this 4-pack of humane ‘catch and release’ traps. Designed to catch mice without harming them for them to be released back into the wild. These pet-friendly traps are easy to clean, contain a removable bait case and are reusable.
Myth 3: Mice will die outside
Mouse in leaves (Image credit: Shutterstock)
We often assume that mice will go outside and die, after being poisoned — and not inside the home. However, while this might seem reassuring, experts say this isn’t always the case.
“Unfortunately, rodent baits result in the mouse dying inside your walls, attics, or in their own nests. You might not see them right away, but you’ll eventually smell them,” states Jacob Cohn, A.C.E., COO & Associate Certified Entomologist at Arrow Termite & Pest Control. “And if you believe that mice are all over your house/yard, typically, mice won’t travel much more than 15-30 feet from their nest.”
Similarly, mice are not just visible during the night either, and can strike during daylight (unfortunately). “Some are of the opinion that mice are strictly nocturnal,” adds King. “But where there is food available in homes, they will also eat day and night. The truth is that such myths can lead to ineffective pest control measures. Preventive measures and proper protocols focus on making your home unsuitable for mice.”
How to safeguard your home from mice
Mice in hole (Image credit: Shutterstock)
So, what are the best methods you can take to protect your home from rodents this peak season? “The best first step is to seal even the smallest cracks that mice can squeeze through—anything larger than a dime,” advises Jeff Schumacher, owner of All-Safe Pest & Termite.
“Use caulk, steel wool, or metal mesh to seal holes and cracks. Make sure dry goods are stored in sealed containers and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. Keep cardboard and paper off the floor and clean up all food crumbs as quickly as possible.
“Outside, neatly trim any plants near your home’s foundation and declutter any storage areas or sheds. Regularly inspect these areas for pest activity so issues can be addressed promptly. If you’re seeing repeated activity, a pest control professional can help you identify entry points and hidden nests and provide long-term solutions”.
Follow Tom’s Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button!
More from Tom’s Guide
7 places mice like to hide and what to look out for
5 common mistakes to avoid when getting rid of mice
Check out these 7 plants that keep mice and rats from invading your home
Today’s best Victor Easy Set Mouse Trap deals
114 Amazon customer reviews
$13.98View
$21.42View
We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices
Cynthia Lawrence
Social Links Navigation
Content Editor, Homes
As the Homes Content Editor, Cynthia Lawrence covers all things homes, interior decorating, and garden-related. She has a wealth of editorial experience testing the latest, ‘must-have’ home appliances, writing buying guides and the handy ‘how to’ features.
Her work has been published in various titles including, T3, Top Ten Reviews, Ideal Home, Real Homes, Livingetc. and House Beautiful, amongst many.
With a rather unhealthy obsession for all things homes and interiors, she also has an interior design blog for style inspiration and savvy storage solutions (get rid of that clutter!). When she’s not testing cool products, she’ll be searching online for more decor ideas to spruce up her family home or looking for a great bargain!
You must confirm your public display name before commenting
Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.
What’s the best way to get rid of a mouse you trapped? I asked pest experts for their advice
Experts urge homeowners to sprinkle mint in their yards this summer — here’s why
‘If a pen can fit in the gap, a rat probably can too’ — pest expert urges homeowners to take these preventative steps now
Experts are predicting a ‘surge in rat activity’, so I asked them how to rodent-proof my home
How to rat-proof your yard — 5 expert tips to keep rodents away
Heading on vacation? Expert shares the ‘often overlooked’ routine that will keep pests away from your home
Latest in Home
Anthropologie’s fall sale is live from $7 — score up to 50% off deals for your home
Amazon knocks up to 60% off Blink cameras — here are the home security deals I’d shop ahead of Prime Day
How to paint your IKEA furniture for a flawless finish — decorating experts share their top tips
5 spider-repelling hacks that actually work — and you probably have everything you need at home
Spiders have a sneaky favorite hiding spot in your home — and it’s very easy to miss
I got rid of limescale in seconds using these two kitchen staples — and it’s a game-changer
Latest in Features
I shot over 200 photos with the iPhone 17 Pro Max vs Galaxy S25 Ultra — here’s the winner
I’ve spent 2 weeks with the iPhone 17 Pro — here’s my pros and cons (so far)
Windows 10 end of life — 3 risks you’re taking by not upgrading before October 14
Don’t have ChatGPT Pulse yet? Try my clever hack to create your own curated feeds without it
Forget finger breathing — here’s what actually works when you’re too stressed to sleep
The average American spends 15 full days per year bed rotting — and sleep experts are worried
LATEST ARTICLES
These 5 smart TV settings make watching so much easier — here’s how to enable them
Messages is the iPhone’s most complete app but iOS 26 has made it even better — here’s how
Netflix just dropped a dark psychological thriller series that will keep you guessing until the very end
Physical therapist shares 3 moves to relieve shoulder stiffness and improve upper-body mobility
Garmin Venu 4 vs Apple Watch 11: I walked 10,000 steps with these two watches to test which was more accurate
Tom’s Guide is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site.
Terms and conditions
Contact Future’s experts
Privacy policy
Cookies policy
Accessibility Statement
Advertise with us
Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street,
Please login or signup to comment
Please wait…
