The sight of rodents and other pests scurrying around your home or garden can be unsettling, and it’s crucial to act swiftly to prevent an infestation.

As the cold weather sets in, mice and rats are more likely to seek shelter in your property, attracted by warmth and food.

Instead of using chemical pellets or inhumane traps, a simple and natural method can deter these pests using fragrant items. According to Janet Kintz-Early, an expert from Earth Kind, rodents have sensitive noses and are easily frightened by unfamiliar scents.

She explained: “Mice dislike strong, fresh odours. They tend to overwhelm rodents and their sense of smell, which scares them off. They avoid danger by relying on their keen sense of smell, which makes up for their weak eyesight.

“They rely on this sense to find food, detect danger, and follow scent trails as a way of navigation.” Certain smells, including lavender, can effectively keep rodents away from your home and garden. 

1. Lavender

Lavender is a potent natural repellent, containing essential oils that produce a strong scent that is pleasant to humans but irritating to rodents. Janet noted: “Mice can find the strong floral scent of lavender overwhelming and unpleasant.”

You can purchase a lavender houseplant for your kitchen or plant these delightful blooms in your garden, or opt for dried lavender sachets to distribute throughout your home.

It’s advisable to position your lavender close to any food sources within your abode as it can disguise the aroma of food, thus making it less appealing for rodents to linger and forage. 

2. Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil is another potent deterrent against rodents, who find its scent particularly off-putting.

Janet remarked: “The potent aroma of peppermint oil and similar essential oils can irritate a rodent’s sensitive nose.”

Simply douse cotton balls or tissues in peppermint oil and place them near potential entry points around your home, such as windows and doors.

3. Vinegar

Vinegar, a staple in the kitchen for its natural cleaning properties and stain removal capabilities, also serves as an excellent rodent repellent.

Janet noted: “The sharp, acrid smell of vinegar solutions can cause pests to avoid areas where it is used.”

Create a homemade repellent by mixing vinegar with water in an empty spray bottle and spritzing it in spots where you suspect rodent activity.

4. Cinnamon 

With autumn’s arrival, cinnamon becomes a popular fragrance, especially in candles, but its strong, spicy scent is also effective in deterring rats from entering your home or garden.

Janet stated: “The strong, spicy scent of cinnamon can overwhelm a rodent’s strong sense of smell.”

To deter rodents and also make your home smell fantastic, place cinnamon candles or sticks around your property or soak cotton balls with cinnamon oil.