Households across the UK are being urged to use a common kitchen item—garlic—to deter rats and mice, especially as summer brings increased rodent activity. According to Glen Peskett, a DIY expert from Saxton Blades, garlic's strong odor overwhelms rodents' sense of smell and acts as a natural repellent.
Why Garlic Works Against Rodents
Peskett explains that rats rely heavily on their sense of smell to navigate and find food. Garlic contains sulfur compounds that create a pungent aroma, which disorients rodents and makes them associate the smell with toxic substances. This deters them from entering homes.
“Garlic is a favourite all around the world, it smells amazing, has health benefits and transforms any dish you put in it. But for rats? That strong, pungent smell is their absolute nightmare,” Peskett said.
How to Use Garlic Effectively
To repel rodents, place garlic cloves around entry points such as basements, garages, kitchens, and lofts. Focus on gaps, doorways, and cracks where mice or rats might enter. Garlic oil, cayenne pepper, and apple cider vinegar are also effective alternatives.
Garlic is budget-friendly: a four-pack costs just 87p at Asda, equating to about 22p per bulb. This makes it an inexpensive solution compared to professional extermination fees.
Additional Prevention Tips
Beyond repellents, homeowners should minimise clutter to remove hiding spots for nests. Secure bins, empty them frequently, and clean up spillages promptly, as food waste attracts rodents. Inspect for cracks under doors or vents and seal them properly—even small openings can allow rodents to squeeze through.
By combining garlic with these hygiene measures, households can significantly reduce the risk of a rat or mouse infestation this summer.
