To use the mouse traps effectively, it is very important to maintain them by cleaning the traps for rats. While it may seem like an unpleasant task, it’s fairly straightforward and simple to do. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process for properly cleaning both traditional snap traps and live traps.
Materials Needed
- Rubber or latex gloves
- Old toothbrush or other small brush
- Dish soap
- Small bucket or basin
- Paper towels
- Garbage bag
Safety Tips
As cleaning the mouse traps is important, it is also important to take precautions against the diseases mice can carry. Here are some tips:
- Wear gloves and avoid direct contact with dead mice.
- Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
- Thoroughly wash hands afterwards.
- Dispose of dead mice and used traps in tightly sealed plastic bags.
- Don't use bleach or harsh chemicals, soap and hot water are effective.
Cleaning Snap Traps
Snap traps that have caught mice need to be emptied and reset. Here are the steps:
- Remove the trap from its location and bring it outside or to your work area. Have a garbage bag ready.
- Gently compress the spring bar and remove the dead mouse with gloved hands. Dispose of the mouse in the garbage bag and tie it closed.
- Use an old toothbrush and dish soap to gently scrub the trap bar, spring and platform. The bristles will remove built-up dirt and debris.
- Rinse the trap thoroughly with hot water to remove all soap residue.
- Allow the trap to completely air dry before re-baiting and resetting. Moisture could compromise the trap mechanism.
- Wipe down the area around the trap location to eliminate odors and disease risks. Dispose of gloves and wash hands.
Cleaning Live Traps
Live mouse traps collect urine, feces and dirt and need regular cleaning to keep working well. Follow these steps:
- Remove any bedding, seeds or bait from the trap so it is completely empty. Discard the bedding in a sealed garbage bag.
- Take the trap outside and use the brush and soap to gently scrub inside and outside surfaces. Clean the door, treadle, and any crevices.
- Use hot water to rinse away all soap then dry the trap thoroughly, leaving the door open.
- Once dry, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda inside the trap box. The baking soda will help absorb odors.
- Replace the bedding with new cotton, cloth or paper. Avoid wood shavings.
- Reload the trap with fresh bait. Peanut butter, nuts, and seeds work well.
- Wipe down the area around the trap before replacing. Monitor to see if the trap is attracting mice again.
Proper Storage
When not in use, mouse traps should be lightly dusted with baking soda and stored in sealed plastic bags to prevent absorbing dirt and odors. Storing traps properly will help extend their usefulness.
Summary:
Cleaning mouse traps takes a little time and effort but is vital for keeping them effective and operational. Following these steps carefully will allow snap and live traps to be reused many times. Be sure to take safety precautions when handling used traps. With regular cleaning and maintenance, traps will continue working optimally at capturing mice. And if you don't want go through cleaning process you can click to buy some new ones.
