Pest control experts have a single top recommendation for keeping rats and mice out of UK homes this autumn: steel wool, a simple product costing as little as £1.08. October marks the beginning of peak rodent season in the UK, when falling temperatures and dwindling food sources drive these pests indoors.
Signs of a rodent infestation
Before taking action, it helps to know whether you have a problem. Sophie Thorogood, Technical Training Manager at Pelsis, lists telltale signs including gnawing or damage to buildings, wires, food and packaging; droppings; nesting material or burrows; hair; tracks indoors or outdoors; and noises such as movement, scratching or gnawing.
Thorogood explained: "Rats and mice normally peak in autumn and winter as they want to exploit the buildings and food humans provide to escape harsher conditions. However, they are present all year round, with higher breeding activity usually occurring in the summer."
Sealing gaps with steel wool
Daniel Steward, Managing Director at Shield Pest Control, was among the experts who recommended stocking up on steel wool, available at most supermarkets or hardware stores. He said: "Both rats and mice can squeeze through holes as small as a coin, so even the smallest gaps shouldn't be overlooked. Regularly check around your home for openings and seal them using methods such as expanding foam, door sweeps or by stuffing holes with steel wool or copper mesh."
He added: "Make sure your property has been properly proofed. Mice can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps, so seal any entry points, including gaps around pipes and beneath doors."
Damage and fire risks
Rodents are not just unpleasant — they can cause severe damage to homes. According to Pegasus Pest Solutions, they target cables because they are easily hidden behind walls or floorboards, which is where mice like to run. Gnawed wires become exposed and pose serious fire hazards; UK fire statistics show rodents cause thousands of electrical fires each year. If left undetected, the damage can lead to major electrical faults or even void home insurance policies in the event of a fire.
Other recommended methods
Beyond steel wool, several experts highlighted the power of scents. Luke Newnes, a gardening expert at Hillarys, recommended natural deterrents: "Strong scents are a very effective and completely natural deterrent. Peppermint oil is my go‑to: I soak cotton pads in it and place them near doorways, sheds, or anywhere I’ve seen droppings or gnaw marks. Rats and mice really dislike that strong menthol smell. Clove oil and eucalyptus oil work in a similar way, and they’re all inexpensive."
Keeping the home clean and tidy, with no food left out, is also essential.
What to do if you spot a rodent
Mosh Latifi, Co-Owner at EcoCare Pest Management, advised acting fast: "Act immediately rather than hoping the problem resolves itself. A single mouse or rat is almost never alone. Bait traps placed along walls and in corners, where rodents run rather than in open spaces, are the most effective DIY solution."
For rats, professional treatment is strongly advisable as they are more cautious than mice, and bait needs to be positioned strategically. Dead rodents should not be handled without gloves and should be disposed of in a sealed bag in an outdoor bin.
