Nobody likes an unwanted visitor(Image: (Image: Getty))

The four scents that keep rats away from your home

Rats and mice possess a keen sense of smell, with their vision being notably poor

by · Wales Online

Rats and mice are known to have poor vision. The critters are dependent on their sharp sense of smell to get by.

So, one of the best ways to keep these undesirable guests at bay, is by introducing strong smells into your home that can overpower their advanced smelling capabilities.

Pest removal service Eliminated LTD has revealed the four key scents which repel rats and mice. And they're all easily available.

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Here are the four scents that they recommend using:

Lavender

This scent is particularly repugnant to these creatures. Simply spraying a lavender-infused fragrance around the house or cultivating your own lavender plant can act as a natural deterrent.

For those who prefer a homemade solution, you could create a mix by combining a quarter to a half cup of dried lavender flowers with one-quarter cup of water in a spray bottle, then spritz generously in areas where rodents frequent until the surface is moist but not drenched.

To ensure ongoing protection, this homemade remedy should be renewed every month to preserve its potency in repelling rodents.

You could make a homemade lavender solution(Image: (Image: Getty))

Citrus oil

Another aroma loathed by both rats and mice is citrus oil, owed to the limonene substance present in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. Limonene is responsible for the refreshing scent noted in numerous household cleaners including soaps, detergents, and disinfectants, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Citrus oils, particularly those extracted from lemon and orange, are also cited as "very effective at keeping rats and mice away" from certain places or objects. The experts suggest using these potent oils sparingly or diluting with water before applying to an area or item due to their strength.

Use potent oils sparingly(Image: (Image: Getty))

Peppermint

Peppermint oil is thought to be effective in repelling rats and mice, which are known to dislike the menthol scent. The essential oil triggers a response where rodents associate it with danger and fear, causing them to avoid areas where it's present or try to stay away from it as much as possible.

The strong smell of peppermint oil makes it a popular ingredient in homemade mouse repellent recipes. A few drops on cotton balls placed in strategic locations can keep the pests at bay.

Chilli powder

Chilli powder is also favoured for home repellent solutions because it's inexpensive and easy to obtain at most grocery stores. To use chilli powder as a deterrent, mix about two tablespoons per litre of water before adding it to a spray bottle or hand sanitiser container.

The experts have said: "This is an effective home remedy for getting rid of mice because it smells terrible to them and they won't stay around long enough for their sense of smell to become accustomed to it." Sprinkle chilli powder around areas where mice might frequent, like behind appliances or under furniture.