Handy guide for cleaning up mouse leavings

The pest control professional (such as Economic Pest Control) has left the building after successfully doing their job, and you are just getting over the devastating effects of a mouse infestation. While the mice are taken care of, the evidence of their presence can still be found throughout your home. To prevent the spread of disease or viruses through contact with rodent urine and droppings, this helpful guide will advise you on the best way to clean up mouse leavings and restore your home to a healthful family haven.

Essential Cleaning Gear

Under no circumstances should you use a vacuum cleaner or broom to clean up mouse droppings or nests, as the agitation will stir up dust, making contaminated particles airborne and spreading disease.

Use a commercial grade disinfectant, or make your own using 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. You will also need thick latex gloves, plenty of paper towel or disposable wipes, and a mop with a bucketful of disinfectant floor cleaner.

For a heavily-soiled area, you will also need eye protection, a respiratory mask, and rubber boots that can be hosed clean afterwards. Wear old clothes that can be disposed of at the end of the day.

Plan of Attack

1. Begin by ventilating the area, opening up windows to promote a good flow of fresh air for at least half an hour before you begin cleaning.
2. Remove any soiled fabrics such as cushions, bedding or clothing from the room, and machine wash on a hot water cycle.
3. Armed with a spray bottle full of disinfectant, spray the surfaces covered in mouse droppings and urine liberally, and let the disinfectant soak for at least five minutes. If you are using a commercial disinfectant, follow the instructions on the label regarding the length of time to allow for disinfection of an area- some commercial grade disinfectants can be corrosive on a surface if left too long.
4. After the area has soaked for the required time, wipe up the mouse leavings with paper towel or wipes, place the contaminated towels and wipes in a thick plastic bag, and dispose of them immediately in your outdoor garbage bin.
5. Once all of the leavings have been effectively removed from the area, give the surfaces a deep clean with disinfectant and hot water to remove any residue and eliminate any possibility of lingering contaminated particles.
6. After cleaning, dispose of your latex gloves and give your hands a thorough clean with an antibacterial soap.

Keep Them Away for Good

To prevent an infestation in the future, locate and fill all possible entry-points in your home with an expandable foam product treated with rodenticide, available for purchase from your local pest control professional. Alternatively, use a combination of caulking and conventional expanding foam spray, after packing the hole with steel wool.

Peppermint oil is said to deter mice, so consider using a capful in your mop bucket every time you clean your floors. Electronic mouse repellents, sprays and over-the-counter rodenticides have limited long-term use, so the best solution is biannual commercial pest control treatment, as rodents do not build up an immunity to professional baits.