Using poisons to get rid of rats can be dangerous, and using traps can seem inhumane, so many homeowners will look for natural alternative rat control options. One of these options is vinegar, but how does it actually work?
Cotton balls and vinegar
Imbibing cotton balls with vinegar is one of the most effective ways to use vinegar as a repellent. Simply place a handful of cotton balls in white vinegar, let them soak, and then place them wherever you’ve noticed rat droppings, smear marks or activity. Cotton balls are also great because they can be placed in areas where there is rat urine, and they will soak it and sterilize it.
Vinegar in a cup
If you do not have any cotton balls, you can simply place the vinegar in a cup and then place the cup in areas with heavy rat activity. However, if you do not know where these areas are but you still suspect that you have an infestation, you can place the vinegar cup behind the furniture or appliances. You can have multiple cups to protect a larger space, and if the area is well ventilated, you will have to replace the vinegar in the cups once a week.
Vinegar spray
Your third option is the vinegar spray. Take a spray bottle and add a mixture of half vinegar and half water, along with a teaspoon full of salt. Mix the solution thoroughly, and then spray it in areas of rat activity. The spray is great for both deterrence and cleaning up after rats.
Vinegar and baking soda
By mixing vinegar and baking soda you can actually create a poison that will kill rats. As with any poison however, you have to be careful when you handle it, and when you apply it. Make sure that it is out of the reach of your pets, children and other residents in the home, if you do decide to go forward with this option.
Controlling large infestations
Some rat infestations get so large that not even conventional control methods can eliminate them. In these situations, you will need to work with a pest control pro. A pro will have the equipment and commercial-grade products that can handle such an infestation. If you have any questions about how to best deal with rat infestations, or if you want to set up a rat control appointment, contact us today and we will help you out.