Keeping the critters out: weird but effective tricks?

Honestly, I’ve never had much luck with those ultrasonic things either - feels like a gimmick. If you want a more sustainable fix, try caulking gaps with low-VOC sealant. It’s not flashy, but it works long-term and doesn’t introduce weird chemicals indoors.

If you want a more sustainable fix, try caulking gaps with low-VOC sealant. It’s not flashy, but it works long-term and doesn’t introduce weird chemicals indoors.

That’s a solid approach - sealing up the gaps is usually my first move too. Have you ever tried those door sweeps or brush strips for under doors? I’ve found they make a surprising difference, especially in older homes. Curious if anyone’s had luck with natural deterrents like peppermint oil or cedar chips... do those actually work, or just smell nice?

Have you ever tried those door sweeps or brush strips for under doors? I’ve found they make a surprising difference, especially in older homes.

Yeah, door sweeps are a game changer - especially with those old, drafty thresholds. I always go for the kind you can trim to fit tight. As for peppermint oil, I’ve tried it... mice seemed to ignore it after a week or two. Cedar chips worked better for moths than anything else, honestly. If you really want to keep critters out, nothing beats a good physical barrier and sealing up every little gap you can find.

Physical barriers really are the MVP. I’ve tried peppermint oil too - smelled nice for a bit, but the mice didn’t seem to care after a while. One thing I’d add: check around pipes and utility lines. Those tiny gaps are sneaky entry points. Caulk or steel wool can make a big difference.

Steel wool is definitely underrated. I once renovated a 1920s bungalow, and the tiniest crack behind the stove turned out to be a mouse superhighway. Plugged it with steel wool and mortar - problem solved. Never had much luck with the scented stuff either... mice seem pretty unfazed by spa vibes.