How Do Mice Get in Your House? Important Steps to Take in the Winter

When temperatures drop in Maryland, you’re not the only one looking to stay warm—mice are too. At Brody Brothers Pest Control, we’ve seen it time and again—mice entering homes throughout Maryland and the Baltimore Metro Area in search of shelter. But how do mice get in your house, and how can you stop them? Here’s what you need to know to keep them out this winter.

For a more comprehensive guide on mice identification and control, visit our Mice Pest Identifier page.

How Do Mice Get Into Your House?

Mice are resourceful, squeezing through gaps as small as 1/4 inch. How do mice get in your house? They commonly enter through:

Cracks in the Foundation: Small cracks are enough for mice to slip inside.
Utility Line Openings: Gaps around water pipes, electrical wiring, and gas lines are perfect entry points.
Attic and Roof Vents: Mice can climb and enter through roof vents, chimneys, or other small openings.

It’s crucial to inspect your home for any cracks or gaps and seal them before winter. For more about how mice behave and enter homes, read our Mice Pest Identifier.

Signs You Have Mice in Your House

Mice leave behind signs that they’ve made their way into your home. Here are the key indicators:

1. Mouse Droppings

Small, dark brown droppings near food sources, cabinets, or baseboards are a strong sign of mice in your house. Not sure if it’s mice or rats? Learn how to differentiate the two with our article on Mice vs. Rat Droppings.

2. Scratching Noises

If you hear scratching or scurrying noises at night, especially in walls or ceilings, mice are likely moving around in your home.

3. Nests

Mice create nests from materials like paper, fabric, or insulation. You’ll often find these hidden in attics, garages, or basements. Curious about how mice can damage your home? Check out our article on What Damage Mice Can Cause to Your House.

Why Do Mice Enter Homes in the Winter?

Mice don’t hibernate, so when it gets cold, they actively seek warm, sheltered spaces to nest. Why do mice come into your house every winter? Your home provides them with warmth, food, and protection from predators. Homes in Maryland are especially vulnerable during winter because of these conditions.

Once mice are inside, they tend to stay, breed, and look for food throughout the season. Without prevention, a few mice can quickly turn into a full infestation.

Want to learn more about how to get rid of rodents? Read our guide on The Best Way to Get Rid of Rodents.

How to Prevent Mice from Getting in Your House

Once you know how mice get in your house, you can take steps to prevent them. At Brody Brothers, we recommend the following:

1. Seal Entry Points

Check for cracks, gaps, or holes around your foundation, doors, windows, and attic. Use steel wool and caulk to seal them. Mice can chew through softer materials, but steel wool deters them. For more detailed prevention tips, check out our Ways to Prevent Mice from Entering Your Home.

2. Store Food Properly

Mice are always on the hunt for food. Store all food, including pet food, in sealed glass or metal containers to keep them out. Clean up crumbs and spills immediately, especially before bed.

3. Reduce Clutter

Cluttered spaces like attics and garages provide mice with excellent hiding spots. Keeping these areas organized makes your home less inviting.

4. Fix Water Leaks

Mice are attracted to water sources. Repair any leaky pipes or faucets, especially in winter when outdoor water is scarce.

What to Do If Mice Get in Your House

If you notice signs of mice in your home, here’s what you can do:

Set Traps: Place traps where you’ve seen signs of activity, such as along walls or near food storage. If you prefer to release them, consider humane traps.
Call a Professional: If you’re dealing with a larger infestation or need help, call the experts. At Brody Brothers Pest Control, we’ve been removing mice from homes across Maryland for years, and we can keep them from coming back.

Need help with rodent removal? Learn more about our Mouse Removal Services.

Conclusion

Understanding how mice get in your house is the first step to preventing an infestation. By sealing entry points, organizing your home, and properly storing food, you make it less attractive for mice. But if they do find a way in, Brody Brothers Pest Control is here to help with our proven methods and years of expertise. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a mouse-free home.

For a more comprehensive guide on mice prevention and control, visit our Mice Pest Identifier.

Levi Brody