Seal all entry points with steel wool and caulk (gaps around pipes, vents, doors, windows, siding)
Install door sweeps and repair damaged weather stripping
Fix holes in screens and vents; use hardware cloth for vents
Store food in airtight containers; keep pet food sealed
Clean up crumbs and spills daily; vacuum floors and under appliances regularly
Remove clutter (boxes, paper, fabric) to reduce nesting sites
Keep trash in sealed bins and take it out frequently
Reduce water sources by fixing leaks and drying sinks/bath areas
Trim vegetation and keep materials (wood, lumber, grills) off the ground and away from the house
Use snap traps along walls and near suspected entry points; place with trigger end against the wall
Bait traps with peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit; refresh bait as needed
Set multiple traps in a grid pattern in areas with signs of activity
Use tamper-resistant bait stations for children and pets
Consider contacting a licensed pest control professional for persistent infestations
If needed, use an approved rodenticide only in covered, tamper-resistant bait stations placed out of reach
After activity stops, remove traps and clean droppings with disinfectant; wear gloves and a mask
Dispose of contaminated materials properly and sanitize the area
Monitor for new signs (droppings, gnaw marks, rub marks) and repeat trapping/sealing as necessary