You Notice Tiny Black Droppings Near the Fridge… Could Mice Have Moved In?

One morning, you find small black pellets by the refrigerator. That night, a strange rustling sound from behind the wall makes you jump. Could your home have new — and very uninvited — occupants? The mice are back. But why did they pick your place? And more importantly, how can you send them packing without turning your living room into a war zone?

Why Do Mice Sneak Into Your House?

Looking for Warmth
When temperatures drop, mice start hunting for cozy, sheltered places to escape the cold. Your well-heated home becomes the perfect winter retreat — like a chalet, but rent-free.

Food at Every Turn
Crumbs under the dining table, an uncovered trash can, an open pet food bag… To a mouse, this is an all-you-can-eat buffet. Their keen sense of smell leads them to even the smallest food scraps.

Easy Entry Points
Gaps under doors, tiny wall openings, and even plumbing access points can let mice inside. They can squeeze through spaces as small as 6mm — meaning even a poorly sealed door frame can become a mouse highway.

How to Tell If You Have Mice

Before taking action, confirm it’s actually a mouse infestation. Here are the most common signs:

• Droppings: Small, black, rice-shaped pellets, especially near food areas
• Noises at Night: Scratching, squeaking, or quick scurrying in the walls or attic
• Nest Materials: Torn paper, fabric, or soft insulation gathered in hidden corners
• Gnaw Marks: On furniture, food containers, or electrical wires

Natural Ways to Remove Mice

Seal the Entryways
Like defending a castle, your first step is blocking all possible entrances. Use steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh to close even the tiniest gaps.

Eliminate Food Temptations
Wipe down counters, store food in airtight containers, empty the trash frequently, and don’t leave pet food out overnight.

Try Natural Repellents

• Peppermint oil: Mice hate the strong scent. Soak cotton balls and place them near entry points.
• Bay leaves: Confuse their sense of smell and deter them.
• White vinegar or cloves: Simple, natural options that many find effective.

Use Humane Traps
Live traps can catch mice without harming them. Just make sure to release them far from your home — ideally in a wooded or rural area where they won’t return.

When to Call in the Experts

If you’ve done all the above and the mice are still hanging around, it’s time to bring in a pest control professional. Experts use stronger, more targeted solutions and always follow safety protocols to ensure your home is protected.