How to Set a Mousetrap Properly

Mice infestations can be downright frustrating. These rodents leave a mess everywhere they go with their gnawing and nesting habits—not to mention the foul odors and droppings! Seeing even one mouse is often a bad sign there are more nearby, especially with their rapid rate of reproduction. Mousetraps are a good way to effectively catch mice in your property, but not everyone knows how to set a mousetrap properly. Keep reading for expert tips from Batzner!

Which Type of Mousetrap is Best?

When it comes to picking the best mousetrap, it can be overwhelming. There are several types, including electronic, catch-and-release, and glue traps. All of these traps have their pros and cons. For the most part, the most common and popular type of mousetrap is the spring-loaded mousetrap.

This classic design has been used for centuries to catch mice, and is easier to set up than you may think! Spring-loaded mousetraps are placed in areas of suspected rodent activity with bait. As soon as the spring mechanism is triggered, the metal bar will snap and effectively catch the mouse.

Top Tips for Mousetraps That Work

There are several ways you can learn how to set a mousetrap properly:

1. Use mousetrap bait effectively
   1. Contrary to modern belief, some mice like cheese, and some don’t.
   2. You only need to use a small amount of bait that cannot be reached unless mice step on the trap. If they can swipe it without standing on the trap, they will!
2. Start with unloaded mousetraps
   1. Although it seems odd, it’s smart to start with baited, unloaded traps.
   2. Mice are extremely skeptical of new things, especially human things!
   3. Set traps out with bait (without loading them) for a couple of nights. This will trick mice into a false sense of security.
3. Set more than one trap
   1. By setting multiple traps two to three feet apart each, you have a better chance at catching as many mice as possible at once.
4. Set mousetraps strategically
   1. Mice travel along walls, under furniture, and other places that offer cover.
   2. Place mousetraps along walls and behind furniture, with the bait placed nearest to the wall.
5. Check the mousetraps on a regular basis
   1. Rodent problems won’t go away overnight. It takes diligence to make sure traps are working, set, and not going to waste.
   2. Mice can, in some instances, grab bait without setting off the trap. They can also set the trap off without getting caught!

Need Help With Mice Extermination?

Even when you learn how to set a mousetrap properly, sometimes mousetraps simply won’t work to control a serious rodent infestation. If this is the case, professional mice exterminators may be your best bet. We have more than 70 years of experience getting rid of mice in homes and businesses throughout the state of Wisconsin. We will thoroughly inspect your property for sources of the infestation and customize a rodent control plan fit to your unique needs. To learn more, give us a call today!