A single garlic bulb, costing as little as 22p, could be the key to keeping rats out of your garden this summer. As warmer weather approaches, the risk of encountering rats and mice near your property rises significantly. With the breeding season in full swing, these pests seek food and shelter, often making homes their ideal target.
Why Garlic Works as a Rat Deterrent
Glen Peskett, DIY expert from Saxton Blades, recommends garlic as a simple and affordable repellent. He explains: “Garlic is a favourite all around the world, it smells amazing, has health benefits and transforms any dish you put it in. But for rats? That strong, pungent smell is their absolute nightmare. Rats rely heavily on their sense of smell to navigate and find food. Garlic, with its strong sulfur compounds, overwhelms their sense of smell and makes them feel disoriented. These compounds are also something rats associate with toxic substances, naturally deterring them from entering your home.”
Cost-Effective Solution
The solution is remarkably budget-friendly. A four-pack of garlic bulbs is available for just 87p at Asda, working out at roughly 22p per bulb. This makes it one of the cheapest deterrents on the market, compared to professional pest removal which can be costly.
How to Use Garlic to Keep Rats and Mice Away
To use garlic effectively, place cloves around entry points throughout your property where rodents are most likely to enter. These pests are typically drawn to locations such as basements, garages, kitchens and lofts. Ensure you position them near any gaps and doorways around the exterior of your home. Garlic oil, cayenne pepper and apple cider vinegar can also be remarkably successful at deterring unwanted pests.
Additional Prevention Measures
Repellents alone are not the complete answer. Tackling other factors, such as decluttering, can remove potential hiding places that rats might use to build their nests. Food waste represents another significant draw for rats, so ensure your bins remain firmly closed, dispose of rubbish regularly, and clean up any spills immediately. Lastly, inspect your home carefully for any openings, especially beneath doors or around vents, and seal them up. Even the tiniest of holes can provide rats and mice enough space to get through.
